Building Relationships - Is That All There Is To It?
By Daye Salander
The buzz words are “building a relationship” with clients and potential clients and true, that is important but is that all there is to it? I mean, don’t you have to “deliver”?
Now there’s a thought. So many spend time chasing leads, opt-ins, followers, connections, etc. that they forget that they are only as good as their last job. When using social networking for business it is important to remember a few things.
- Social networking permits you to know more about a new client. This gives you great insight into their style, attitude, and their needs. It also permits them to know more about you – have you Googled your name lately?
- It also makes the relationship less formal, which can be a double-edged sword for friends expect more from friends. We also tend to not CYA, which is not good. Don’t forget, you are still a business person and should conduct work accordingly.
- A job poorly done will spread like wildfire. Don’t expect a social networking “friend” to give you a break just because you are connected.
- Honesty is always the best policy. If there is a problem or you cannot deliver, ‘fess up. Immediately. At the same time, have new solutions or options.
- Social Networking is a two-way street. It is not all about “getting the job” but about give and take. If you are stingy with information and help, you will have far fewer takers on your offers.
Social Networking is a tool that, when used effectively, can bring great rewards, both personally and professionally. Just remember, when it comes to the professional end of things, you are truly only as good as your last job.
