Ok, there is a lot of discussion about “No” when it applies to dating, even some really funny videos about it, but when it comes to business, some of us hear one “no” and run for the hills. In business however, “no” can often mean “not right now” or even “maybe later” – and unless you come back, you don’t get to the time when it changes to the “yes.”
So there is a fine line between being a bother and just checking back in to see if you are at the “yes” point. The difference between the two is often the simple place of “selling” or “relationship building” (or being of service) – are you talking to your prospective customer right now because you see them as a form of cash right now, or do you want them in your life for the long haul?
If it’s the former, I’d start hearing that “No” as an actual “No.” Nobody wants to be sold something, and very few people are thrilled at the prospect of a hard sales pitch. It’s the sleazy used car salesman that we all know isn’t really trying to get you into a car for your benefit, but they do want money in their pocket.
We want more friends. We want people to like us. We want to think that someone would help without benefit to themselves. This is where coming back for a check in can lead – even if you don’t work with them personally, you might be able to be of service to them.
Wanting to create a relationship with a potential customer, whether they want to buy or not, now there’s something we all want. We want more friends. We want people to like us. We want to think that someone would help without benefit to themselves. This is where coming back for a check in can lead – even if you don’t work with them personally, you might be able to be of service to them. You might be able to make a great connection for them. You might be able to shine light on something that has been nagging them for years. Perhaps just hearing the smile in your voice and actual concern about them and their business inspires them to help someone else.
I was thinking about a potential client of mine the other day – day dreaming about places she could expand her influence in the world in ways that would benefit her retail store. I plan to share some of them when we talk again because I want her to be successful. I don’t know whether or not she’s ready for my services. She may not be. I do know that when she is ready, and if she’s gotten value from our short conversations in the mean time, she will know that I am already in her corner, rooting for her.
Be of service to the world. You don’t need to sell yourself out – you just need to show up as the best possible you and shine.