Is he reliable Charlie? Ben asks.
Do you know our new connection well enough to refer him??
Fair questions. I thought for a single moment and realised that this time, I just wasn’t sure of my answer…
All in business have had times of dilemma, finding the reliable trading partners, co-workers and suppliers are part of that conundrum. Yes, there is an abundance of reputable offerings … but are they reliable?
I consider myself lucky that I have made some fantastic, trusted long-time connections through networking. We seem to ‘sing from the same hymn sheet.’
Similar to what was being asked of me now, think yourself, what characteristics would a potential business partner or supplier need to possess? There’s a good chance you’ll come up with a list of attributes (nearly) similar to the following …
Is there evidence of:
Like-mindedness
Product knowledge
Empathy
Not forgetting, a reputable name?
Connections
Reliability
What makes them so referable, to you?
Personal recommendation. Reputations are built on them.
You may be given an introduction to a wholly reputable business, someone who fits the bill, an organisation that tick’s all the boxes, even drinks your brand of coffee, but if that connection is more a ‘maybe’ instead of a clear yes/no kind of outfit then chances are, you’re going to hesitate in referring them.
There are many reasons we buy into our professional network and each of us has our own prerequisite when choosing to work with someone.
For me? It’s reliable. If we’re unable to count on our supporters to be us when it matters, then they’re certainly not referable.
So in answer to Ben? Sit down, take a minute, share the cake and get to know what works for you both.
CharlieKenny.me 