We all have goals in our personal and professional lives, but why do only some of us accomplish those goals? In this episode of The ROI Podcast, the president of IU Saxony and Tipton Hospitals reveals the first, and most important step, when going after your dream.

Show Notes: 0:15 Introduction to The ROI Podcast Presented by the Indiana University Kelley School of Business on the IUPUI Campus. 1:35 There are a lot of guides and information on the internet about networking and best practices. 1:41 Networking helped Michael Harlowe, President of IU Saxony and Tipton Hospitals, get where he is today. 2:00 A guy in Harlowe's running group advised he explore health care administration. 2:05 Mike cold called the hospital administrator in his hometown. 2:18 Tip #1: Surround yourself with people who can help you and are in a position you'd like to be in. 2:45 Mike enrolled in Indiana University Masters in Healthcare Administration Program. 3:38 Mike says he can't emphasize enough to pay attention to the chance encounters in your life. 4:20 Mike says you can't be afraid to fail. 5:20 Be different when trying to maintain relationships. Hand written letters are a great way to stand out and show the person you're writing to that you're grateful for them. 6:00 Tip #2: Once you've met with someone who could serve as a mentor to you, follow up with them. 6:54 Mike is a graduate of the Randall L. Tobias Leadership Center's Hoosier Fellows Program. 8:30 Mike says most importantly, don't be afraid to fail. Just do it.