CharlieKenny.me

I met Karen recently. She has a start-up business and is now looking to generate new opportunities via ‘word of mouth.’

It’s always a pleasure to share new contacts with my own business community. The new connection is invaluable, although Karen may not ‘connect’ with everyone during her first meeting, she has the opportunity to introduce herself to many via second and third degree contacts … over time.

Karen wasn’t looking to spend a lot of time netWORKING, building for tomorrow. Karen’s mission was to uncover business for today!

We’ve all been there!? Hey, sometimes hunting works, doesn’t it? I thought to myself.

I do admire those who visit groups looking for solutions to the problems of the day. Some are lucky with the one-off order – others usually leave the room with a fist full of cards, looking to follow up. Unfortunately, many sell-sell types we don’t see again. 

The problem I had introducing Karen was that she was offering solutions to all kinds of admin issues. Solutions from payroll to HR, blog posting to AI templates.

Once we’d finished the formal part of the meeting … the room broke up for the follow-up when I asked Karen …’What kind of business was most important to her?’

“Anything, Charlie, I don’t specialise. I’m looking for any kind of admin tasks to keep me busy, pay the bills.”

Nothing specific I can help with?

“I’m a new business, Charlie, and I’d be happy with anything.”

I almost suggested to Karen slow down, breathe, concentrate on the one ‘offer.’ Identify the cornerstone of her business bringing her the most enjoyment? People gravitate to like-minded people looking to thrive.  I sensed this wasn’t what she was looking to hear.

My advice to Karen? Seek the one-to-one, sit down and share your ‘bigger picture,’ get to know the people so they might remember you. Why not book up some meetings after our next date? Plan to establish the connection, see ‘who knows who?’

Yes, I do hear what you’re saying Charlie. Although I’m so busy putting the word out, networking here and there, that I don’t really think I’ll be back in this part of town for a while … although I’ll be sure to get in touch if this changes.

Later that day I wished Karen well, thanking her for her time in an after-hours follow-up message.

To date, I haven’t heard back. I’m sure I’ll hear tomorrow.

True networking is not about hunting for business. Sure, we keep our eyes and ears open for the opportunity, although I’ve learned over time that all the best results come from the cultivation of established connections … A good plan?  Consistent messages over a given period of time??

People buy from people they know and trust.