Thanks to Craig Jenner, Account Executive for writing an article for our blog.
“All things being equal, people will do and refer business to those people that they know, like and trust.” Bob Burg
Many of you may be thinking that the above statement is fairly obvious. If some of you have already committed this mantra to memory and are using it effectively then you are well on your way to a successful career.
To those who may be unfamiliar with this statement and what it really means then please allow me to explain, for this statement applied to your business dealings has the potential to transform your career and business prosperity.
Have you ever heard the saying “It’s nothing personal, it’s just business” When I hear people say that I wonder to myself whether they have missed the point. Successful business relationships develop from successful personal relationships between people. Nobody particularly likes dealing directly with computers as they have no personality and they don’t like to meet for a coffee, or have a round of golf. Friends in business do like to do that and their business relationships benefit greatly from it.
Below are some of the things that I find helpful in developing beneficial win-win relationships:
- Commit to memory a person’s name when you first meet them. Even though people may never admit it, the sweetest sound to a person’s ears is their own name. It stands you out from the majority of people in business.
- Take a genuine interest in people and their business. Ask lots of sincere questions about them and what prospects they are looking for. Then listen to their answers so you will know when an opportunity may benefit them.
- Read newspapers, journals, magazines, watch TV, attend networking events. If you see an article or some news that may benefit one of your business friends then cut it out and send it to them.
In summary if you stay in the forefront of peoples minds as a person that they know, like and trust, and show a genuine interest in helping them become a success then you will be on your way to a successful and rewarding career.
Tags: Australian Small Business Awards 2009, Building Client Relationships, Business Success, Capitalise, Corporate Identity, Craig Jenner, Creative Director, Cultivate, customer relationship management, customers, customise, Graphic Design, Innovate, market position, marketing, Matt Preston small business, networking, Nick Williams, Quality Website and Print Design Perth, Search Engine Optimisation, SEO, Small Business, Software Developer Perth, Software Development Perth, Stimulate, The Brew, The Loft Group, The Loft Group. Business Relationships, Water Cooler Conversations, Website Developer, West Australian Young Entrepreneur 2009, work smarter
Craig,
this is a great post that everyone can get something from. I’d have to say that being friendly and building rapport is at the top of my personal “10 commandments”.
You also touch on taking a genuine interest in a person and their business (something you personally are very good at). Taking an opportunity to help someone even if it is of no benefit to your own business is what strong business relationships are all about – something that will help build personal trust.
Best regards, Craig.