Last year, while I was in full networking mode (I was still busying reinventing myself and my business after my recent pivot), I was introduced to someone as a networking connection.
When we connected and caught up, they immediately considered me a prospect based on something they misinterpreted. Instead of talking, sharing stories, and getting to know one another, you know, the things humans do to build relationships, they went into their sales flow. They couldn’t have been more wrong. They even followed up multiple times as if I were a ready-to-buy lead.
I wasn’t.
I was just a person who was interested in what they did and getting to know them. It was over a year ago, and every time they show up in my feed, I remember how they acted and how it made me feel. That’s their reputation to me. I doubt it is the one they want, but it is the one they earned. As I say, your brand is your reputation; commit to earning the rep you want, because you will get the one you deserve.
Communication and storytelling are the backbone of human relationships. Be mindful not to make the same mistake. There are many of you who I have a fantastic relationship, and we have never talked shop. That may come because the respect and relationship we have will enable that.
As in this case, I could have ended up being one of their clients, but we’ll never know. What I do know is that the chances that I would endorse, refer, or work with them are zero. Not solely because they jumped the gun, but because I don’t know them, they missed the opportunity to build a relationship with me, and that has consequences.
Final thought
This isn’t only a lesson in business development and sales, it is a lesson to slow down, focus on the relationship, and don’t be so transactional or over zealous. Even if I were ready to buy what you are offering, make sure I am ready and a good fit. This applies to every interaction, meeting, interview, and conversation.
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Feed Your Mind
What I’m Listening To:
I had a busy week and mostly streamed WFMU.
But here are some tracks I bumped through the week.
Work It by Missy Elliot
The Good of Lying by Gorillaz & IDLES
My Way by Sinatra
What I’m Reading: The Graveyard Book
By Neil Gaiman (Author), Dave McKean (Illustrator), I heard good things about this book, and so far I’m in love.
