Since business is built on relationships, over the last few weeks I have been reaching out to all of my LinkedIn contacts asking if they are interested in connecting with me one on one so we can get to know each other, share about our business, identify needed resources and see if there is an opportunity to do business together.  It has been an interesting and enlightening process.

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About 30% of the people I have contacted have responded to my request.  Of that 30%, I have had a conversation with close to half of them.  The other half have said they are interested but never follow up with scheduling a time OR they have scheduled a time but no show for the conversation.  Hmmmm . . . . not following up and standing people up for scheduled appointments . . . that’s an interesting approach to building relationships.  No judgment, just noticing.

 

During this process I have connected with some really wonderful people.  I have made (and received) introductions, shared (and received) resources and connected with some really awesome like-minded people.  I have also been invited to be a guest on an international business radio show, be a regular contributor to a newsletter that goes out to 200K business leaders world wide and made a $1,000 commission from introducing 2 fabulous people who decided to do business together.  All of this is from asking people if they want to talk.

 

This ongoing connection experiment has confirmed a few things for me.  First, people are happy to help when they like you and know what you are looking for.  Second, it’s okay to ask for what you want and need.  And third, communication is key in every aspect of building a business and, in this fast pace, “look at me” culture that is emerging in social media, the art and skill of good communication is at risk of being lost.  I will write more about the true art of communication next time. 

 

Until then, I encourage you to reach out and see who you can connect (or re-connect) with in your business.  It’s not all about the sale.  You never know what resources can be found , what doors will open and who can make a pivotal introduction that takes your business to the next level.

 

If we haven’t connected personally and you would like to, feel free to contact me on Facebook, LinkedIn, Google Plus or by email (Melanie@melanieyost.com), carrier pigeon, smoke signal . . . or pick up the phone and call me.  I’d love to get to know you, learn about your business, understand who are good referrals for you, see if I can direct you to any resources and see if there are any opportunities for us to do business together now or in the future.

 

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this article.  Please leave them below.

melanie2-smMelanie Yost LCSW is an Author, Speaker, and Business Mentor for motivated business owners ready to break through to the next level. She teaches them how to integrate their unique skills, natural abilities and lifestyle priorities into their business planning and marketing strategies so that they can make more money than they ever thought possible and have fun doing it.

A psychotherapist for 20 years, Melanie combines a wealth of effective and creative tools that empower her clients to transform their lives, their situations, and most importantly, their outcomes. When people are looking for an opportunity to create a 180 degree turn in their finances, beliefs, business and lives, they seek Melanie’s acute wisdom and trusted advice. Melanie’s coaching is a mix of practicality, mindset, strategy and marketing. If you have ever wanted to get out from under the limitations of your business and start living your passion and loving what you do, her coaching is a must!