The call came in:
‘Hey Charlie, Steve here, long time no see? I’ve developed a great new product and I wondered whether you would be kind enough to pass on the news to friends within your network for me?
Blah … blah … this ‘n that, blah, great offers, blah – and by the way, hope all is well with you?’
My immediate response to Steve’s question was yes, sure, no problem … Happy to do so! Steve’s enthusiasm captivated me, I wanted to help him (because help is what I do.)
Although …
You know, people often come to me with requests to spread the word about their business. I’ve been doing just that for the last ten years through close connections. There is value in supporting each other, it’s something I strongly believe in.
We all know that reciprocal arrangement, the unwritten rule of life and business, ‘what goes around comes around?’ That same arrangement continues to attract the ‘right kind’ of people to the network and it’s for that reason, I see why Steve called me. After all, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.
So, in this instance, I wasn’t sure how to tackle Steve’s question … ‘Charlie, pass the news on to friends in the network?’
I really didn’t know Steve so well, an acquaintance of a friend so to speak, so I decided to call him back, make him an offer … ‘
Steve, thanks for the news, why not come along to the meeting, introduce yourself? Show your face, spend an hour or so as you extol the virtues, the value of the new project you’re involved with?’
Charlie, I appreciate the invitation although networking is not for me and to be honest I simply don’t have the time. I’d be grateful though if you would give them my details?’
So don’t get me wrong, I’m excited for Steve and hope his new idea takes off. I’ll mention his news, although I couldn’t personally recommend a product or service I haven’t used myself to close friends or family.
Good business comes via those we know well. Referrals take time and are earned. Strong reputations we build through trust. Because business is personal.
CharlieKenny.me 