Here’s the short of it: if YOU want something from ME, be on top of it.
I got an introduction the other day from a colleague introducing me to someone who thinks I’d be a good fit for their networking group. And 24 hours later I still hadn’t heard from the person who “wants me” evidently. I was polite and replied because of the colleague who took the time to make the intro, but it amazes me: if you ask someone for a referral, they give you that referral and you let it drop, why would I trust you with my business?
If you get slammed at work with a big project and know it’ll be a couple of days until you truly can get back to me, that’s OK, just say so. I”ve gotten emails before that say “happy to connect- have a crazy client project for the next 48 hours, will send you info by the end of the week.”
Whatever it is, don’t leave me hanging bro.
Bethany Miller says
As soon as I was done reading this I went back to my email. Lo and behold I had a perfect example of the right way to do this, as you mentioned! I wrote to a gentleman yesterday afternoon requesting a meeting. He wrote back this morning saying he was looking forward to the opportunity, but could we touch base after the holiday weekend to schedule. He is the owner of a small, B to C, retail business, so I am sure Friday going into a holiday weekend is busy and I have no problem waiting until next week to schedule. However, his simply taking a quick moment to give a response has built the respect I have for him and the way he does business!
Good advice Elizabeth!