Connecting with people is an important part of being in business. Pre-COVID, we did so much more in person, didn’t we? Meeting for coffee or lunch was a regular thing. We could communicate and assess someone’s facial expressions and do it unencumbered by glitchy technology, fuzzy camera images, or the need to stay stuck on our chairs in front of the computer screen. We could go to someone’s office, tour their facilities, and meet other members of the staff. Those were the days!
It’s different now. We have learned to connect with people over Zoom. Our Zoom meetings have gotten larger. And it’s no longer a “new technology.”
Yet whether it’s in person or over Zoom, the idea of connecting with people is as important as it ever was. With COVID in decline (at least for the moment) it might be time to revisit some of the ways we can continue connecting with the important people in our business lives –our prospects and clients. Some of these you may already be doing. If you’re not, now is a great time to think about what you can do to connect in an authentic, relevant way with the people that matter to you. Here’s some of our favorites:
1. Remember special dates.
Not literally. We all need our digital calendars! But finding ways to commemorate those special days will forge a closer connection between you and those in your business circles. We’re talking about birthdays, anniversaries of working together or milestones for the company. Even national holidays (ex. Connecting with your donut making client on National Donut Day) offer an opportunity to stay connected. Gifts are wonderful, but even a quick text or message on social media can do the trick. Do you have a way to organize and remember special dates with your client? How can you make that happen?
2. Bring Value with Resources.
Years ago, I offered myself as an inspirational speaker for an employee meeting for one of my clients. The client was grateful for my presentation on “landing on your dreams,” and it served to motivate many of those in the audience to look to the company as a source of greater opportunity. I even brought along signed copies of my book to distribute as well. It was a win-win. I have also connected my clients with each other when their companies serve mutual audiences. Many connections have resulted in business transactions. What does your company have that can enhance your client’s ecosystem? What can you do or who do you know that can help your prospects or clients?
3. Celebrate.
Whether we’re three or fifty-three, everyone loves to be acknowledged when they’ve worked hard and take some time to play. One way to connect with people is to help them celebrate their wins. At JJR Marketing, we have recommended and also implemented many team celebrations on behalf of our clients. Sometimes it was a grand opening, but other times it may have been the launch of a new brand or a new logo. Turning a small event into a cause for celebration not only gives you the opportunity to connect with other people, but it gives others the chance to connect with each other as well. What can you help your clients or prospects celebrate? How can you celebrate them?
4. Recommend and Review.
The success of every business, and in fact, every person, is enhanced by good reviews. There is nothing wrong with giving a positive review on LinkedIn praising the professionalism and/or efficiency of the client individual you are working with if you feel that one is warranted. It’s a great way to connect with someone in an honest and appreciative way. If you have had the opportunity to work with or use a client’s product, be sure to give a personal, honest, positive review on their favorite review platform too. Finally, if you are representing a B2C (business to consumer product) and believe in the brand, don’t be shy about personally elevating it on your social media. Think about it. Where can you recommend or review someone or something to forge a deeper connection with the people you value?
5. Discover and Listen.
The best way to connect with people and find out what they’re thinking is to ask them. Employee and customer surveys give us a chance to listen and learn better ways to connect with people. The information we glean can help us move forward with better communication, services, products, and even relationships! By listening, we show that what is important to them is important to us. What can you do to discover what’s on the minds of the people you want to connect with most? What can you do to show them you’re listening?
The best time to connect with people is now. We hope these ideas will get you thinking about what you can do for your prospects and clients. And if we can help you implement a survey, plan a celebratory event, or create a program to bring value to the people in your life, don’t hesitate to give us a call!