Network executive is a champ at relationships

Since I came from the entertainment business (a lawyer working for CBS way back), I can appreciate how relationships run that industry. Recently an article in the Los Angeles Times highlighted a little-known executive, Bridget Baker from NBC Universal.

For 21 years, she has has negotiated with cable and satellite operators for distribution deals.

In the early years, it was tough because the cable operators hated the broadcasters. However, she launched CNBC and later, MSNBC. Now that Comcast and NBC have merged, she has to convince Comcast's direct competitors, satellite and telephone companies that offer tv service that she will not favor NBC's new bosses at their expense.

One of her former bosses said, "She's a relationship builder like no other. She has great people skills. . ." She has been called Lucille Ball in an Hermes scarf which hides her hard-nosed negotiator persona.

Another boss called her "not a traditional business-speak person but more colorful, more personable, more engaging. She has a style that's unique."

That's what I always advise - make yourself memorable. Think of something that sets yourself apart and offer it up in your interactions with others.