follow-up...

i always find it interesting when people who should follow-up don't...

i've seen so called top firms lose huge business simply because they didn't go out of their way to follow-up a first contact effectively...

for example, the next time you're at a networking event of any sort, always ask if you can follow-up with each individual you meet and then....actually do it.

the way to build up an impressive network or rolodex is to follow-up and continue to build relationships.

is this a new concept? of course not...so why is it still a lost art???

many business owners have the attitude that they'll only follow-up if they sniff an immediate deal...wrong. in a five minute conversation it's a rare occasion when one is able to truly pre-qualify someone and determine whether their widget or widget service is perfect for the prospect...anyone who is involved in large complex sales cycles will immediately agree with me on this point.

in addition, it's also impossible to assess who the prospect knows and the circles they travel in, this is the real gold. everyone is a potential sales person for you, if you properly cultivate that relationship...

prejudging and not following up is a mucho bad habit...so break it and start doing the little things better, like returning phone calls, emails and try using a pen and paper to write thank-you notes...it's so odd these days that it may even set you apart...

you'll be amazed at the difference it will make in your business opportunity traffic and deal flow.