One of the biggest “ah-ah” moments of my business career came in late 1999.
I was sitting in our flashy offices, across the table from a retired army Major, a delightful old chap.
As he was clearly a happy client, I asked him if he knew anyone else who’d benefit from what we did.
His reply rocked me in my chair, and changed my world:
Yes, he said. Of course I know plenty of people, but I didn’t want to bother you with them as I thought you’d be too busy.
Holy Cow!
Was THAT how I came across?
Was I so busy looking busy that I’d forgotten to look commercial?
Since then, I’ve embedded some daily habits that are WAY more productive:
- I make sure everybody I know knows what I do for a living
- I ask clients (and prospects!) for referrals
- I’m always offering, overtly, so no-one has to guess how I might help them
- I never post the “oh, I’m so busy” type stuff, as it stops people reaching out
- Friends are clients, clients are friends. No confusing walls between us
So, roll up those shutters and stand outside your shop with a megaphone.
Don’t expect us to ask, “sorry, are you open?”
We just won’t.
Jonny
PS – I’m just polishing the final sheen on my Xmas present to you. Grab it here, as it’s ready to open.