A Patient Approach to Networking Pays Off
I’m seeing a frenzy within Twitter and Facebook to “amass” friends. Yes, it’s nice to have great groups of followers. However, can we really touch these “friends” personally? With how many do we end up forming a true connection?
Connecting with one person, when it’s the right person, can be the beginning of a relationship that blossoms and grows. These relationships are invaluable and require the right intention to grow. I prefer the “farmer”, versus the “hunter” approach in networking.
A farmer has a patient, highly visible approach to networking desiring collaboration and development versus the hunter approach of hit-and-run prospecting that’s more focused on closing and acquisition.
Farmers value…
- Long-term Relationships
- Nurturing
- Growing
- Collaboration
- Building
- Loyalty
- Creating champions
- Customer advocacy
- Development
In today’s business climate, people–especially women–want to buy, but don’t want to be sold to. The farmer approach is an excellent long-term strategy if you want to build a loyal customer base. I appreciate that it allows me to watch the seeds of connection grow and blossom.
Tags: Direct Sales, Entrepreneurial Moms & Women, Networking, women entrepreneurs, work at home moms
