HOW MUCH BUSINESS ARE YOU LOSING FROM LACK OF FOLLOW-UP?

HOW MUCH BUSINESS ARE YOU LOSING FROM LACK OF FOLLOW-UP?
How Do You Follow-Up?   Do you do what you say you are going to do?
Why is this so important? Because this is the most common “error” in networking. Few people do something with the contacts they established at an event. They continually go to events, go back to the office and the cards they have picked up sit in a pile. –What a shame!!!!  Look at how much business is lost- and the waste of time – going to the event for no results.
Here are some tips to improve your follow up:

• Make a note on the persons business card or in your notebook – what you learned about the person and what you need to follow-up with..
• Immediately do the things you promised to do. This avoids that postponing becomes canceling. Moreover you will be perceived as a trustworthy person and as a consequence as someone that’s worthwhile to network with.
• Make it easy for yourself and use some tools:
  • Save the data of your contacts in a structured way (database, e-mail software) Make a template for your e-mails
  • Make a template for your (thank you) letters
• Make sure your network hears from you on a regular basis
  • Send a postcard around Christmas, for a birthday or for another event
  • (Tip: send a card at a moment that nobody else sends one, – just because – and you will make a difference!)
  • Pass the name of an interesting contact or newspaper/magazine  article
  • Keep in contact 2 weeks, 2 months 6 months later – be fresh in their mind.
  • Find ways to communicate regularly with “What can I do to help you”  What are you looking for this month?  Make an effort as to whom you can connect them with
  • Buddy up – one on one and get to know them better.

Follow up on your contacts regularly and with a positive attitude. Not only you make a difference with regard to other people, but you will be surprised how much respect you get. Your image and your network will prosper !
Donna Willon
President – Focused Networking Ltd
I help You Generate More Business Through Networking Relationships, LinkedIn Training and Business Coaching
604-328-2290
donna@focusednetworking.com
www.focusednetworking.com