With the advances in technology, how many people take the time to build relationships with clients or potential clients?
When I attended my first Chamber of Commerce event, I really didn’t know what to expect. An elderly gentleman came over, introduced himself, and asked, “Is this your first event?” I really didn’t know it was that obvious, I smiled and replied, “Yes.” With a grin he said, “Can I offer you some advice?” “Please do”, was my reply. “Don’t come to one or two of these events and expect everyone here to fall down in front of you, and beg you to sell them something. Come to every event that you can, it will take about 12 to 18 months before the members start to recognize you and remember your name. Always have your business cards ready, but don’t try to pass them out like you’re dealing cards at a poker game.”I went to everything I could, and after about 12 months, I was asked to be an Ambassador for the Chamber. We’ve been able to serve the local business owners in our community because, we built relationships with people first.It takes time to establish a business, but it also takes time to establish relationships. Take the time, it’s worth it.
