I am constantly reminded that it is better to give than receive. This concept works well in so many facets of our lives. What about our business and sales practices? We all too often hold pertinent information close to the vest and not share openly. What if sharing opened doors to multiple other opportunities that we weren’t aware of? That’s where successful sales networking plays a big part.
I have a sales person that is super busy setting up events, seminars and networking meetings. He has been doing this sales activity for years. His presentations are great, never misses a network meeting and he works the event booths like a pro. Obviously he’s my top sales person. Well, not really.
As a business owner you make huge efforts participating in boards, associations, and sales networking meetings of all types. Sometimes in group settings and sometimes just simple one on one facetime lunches or cups of coffee somewhere. A good thing. With that said, however, I would guess most of you are missing some of your best sales networking, lead generation, opportunities and don’t even realize it. Let me explain.
You’ve finally built a relationship with a potential customer and are getting pretty chummy. Thinking a social media customer connection is a great next step you start in with… “Hey let’s connect” you say. “Great!, LinkedIn?” says the customer. “No, I was thinking Facebook networking.” you blurt out. Silence [cricket noise]. Things just got awkward. Why?