Referral: a person recommended to someone or for something.
Receiving referrals goes to the heart of a small business owner's work and in a larger scope, is something we all look for, in one form or another. As a consumer, I am not comfortable throwing a dart at the listings in a phone book to select a plumber, a photographer, a medical professional or a mechanic. I want to know that the person I am going to be inviting into my home, trusting with my possessions (or myself!) and giving my hard-earned money is not only competent, but also skilled at his craft and will suit my needs. A recommendation from a friend or colleague will usually point me in the right direction.
As a business person, I am always aware that everyone I meet is a potential business contact, whether it is at a networking event or a neighbor's backyard barbecue. That person may not be the client but she may be the person who connects me to my ideal client ... or my dream job ... or turns out to be the type of friend I get together with every few months to indulge in "dessert for dinner" and girl talk.
You just never know who you will run into and where it may take you.
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Remember...
Have you ever walked into a store or called a
place of business and because of something that was said or done, or perhaps not said or done, had an immediate, negative reaction?
In contrast, have you ever had a conversation or experience so positive you told someone
else about it?
Now turn it around ... how do people feel when they interact with you?
The first contact sets the tone for the interaction and is often the foundation for a future relationship, IF there is going to be one.
Does your presence project confidence, authority
and approachability?
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