Tag: referrals

Role Play Networking Events

Posted on by Sue L Canfield

You want to go to networking events, get to know other business owners, and have an opportunity to share what you do. Perhaps you feel shy, unsure what to say or what questions to ask to get a conversation started.

Find a friend and role play. Take turns introducing yourselves to each other and asking questions. Critique each other’s elevator pitch, hone and refine. Once you feel comfortable, you’re set to attend your first networking event.

Take your friend with you for support. But make sure you each go separate ways and introduce yourself to new people. Then on your drive home you can discuss what worked, what didn’t, and what you’ll do next time.

To learn more about how networking and role playing, join us on the call Networking Creates Word of Mouth Referrals on May 18, 2010. Learn more and register at Event Brite.

Can You Give More?

Posted on by Sue L Canfield

My virtual assistant business is growing by leaps and bounds and some of you have asked: what’s the secret? One thing I do is give more. What does that mean?

We often get wrapped up in the mentality that business is all about money; how to make more money by billing more hours. When we have this mindset, I’ve found that clients quickly become unhappy with our service. No, I’m not saying you should give away your time. After all, we are running a business and have to make a living.

However, if your focus is on the client and how you can do what’s best for them, you’ll find yourself giving more. I’ve several times given some hour of my time at no charge to thank a client for a referral or for some honest feedback from them.  Perhaps it only took five minutes to answer a quick question for them; so I throw that in at no extra charge. Or while I’m researching something else online, I come across some information I know a particular client needs and email a link to them.

With this mindset of giving my clients feel important and willingly refer my services to others. It works because my business has grown and I’m making a living. I don’t ever feel taken advantage of and my clients all know I do what’s best for their clients.

Can you give more?