In my line of work, it's hard to network with others, as it is so competitive. But why?!? I truly want everyone to be successful in what they do - I really do! I know there are only so many customers to go around....but, I will tell you....customers do get around. I've heard many nice things about other individuals and shops in our area from my customers. Remember, they share us.
Maybe, it's a lack of really understanding what it is. The dictionary defines networking as: "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups or institutions." Networking is just sharing. I know, in sales, "playing nice" can be hard. We all are selling something; an idea, service or product. The customer who is researching, seeking something will chose one over the other, that is true. But, that customer will remember that YOU shared it. I know this to be true - it has happened too many times for me to count. I've been reselling my wares since I could make Barbie furniture from 2x4's and sell to the neighbor girls. I've been picking and reselling almost as long - as my mom and grandpa did this. So, I've seen all of this to be true.
Recently, I was called to a home to look at some personal property. I didn't resell those types of items, so I referred it to 2 other dealers who did. Did I charge the other dealers for a referral? Nope! I could have, people do this. I didn't because, those dealers will network with me. Share my name with someone who calls them to pick rusty farm junk. This is networking. Even if they don't share - I did my part - reap what you sow kinda thing.
Just yesterday, I ran into a guy who came to an estate sale we did. He asked me to come and pick some stuff he bought out from houses he was hired to clean. He made a list of items I was looking for and said he would go dig them up. He told me what he is looking for, what he resells. I assured him I would be on the look out for those items or when I come across someone selling I would share his name. We could even work out a trade. This is networking.
Don't be jealous of someone who is in your area doing the same thing you are doing. Introduce yourself, network, "play nice," be a mentor to someone and help them. In doing so, you really are helping yourself and your business. So, let's share:
"Hi, my name is Jacky, my business is Town Hall Trinkets, LLC. I am an antique dealer and folk artist. I am certified as a Personal Property Appraiser, help individuals and families in all areas of estate consulting, buy out estates and conduct estate sales. I do event planning and promote many events in our area - starting the Ringle Harvest Day here at our farm. I love to work with wool, needle felt, paint and re purpose items. I also volunteer and have been hired to teach all kinds of classes in arts and homesteading skills. I'm crazy about chickens. My nick-name is Dicky Bird and this is my blog, which I love writing!"
If any of this interests you, click on the links above to message me or leave a comment. Thanks. Let's work together!
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Maybe, it's a lack of really understanding what it is. The dictionary defines networking as: "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups or institutions." Networking is just sharing. I know, in sales, "playing nice" can be hard. We all are selling something; an idea, service or product. The customer who is researching, seeking something will chose one over the other, that is true. But, that customer will remember that YOU shared it. I know this to be true - it has happened too many times for me to count. I've been reselling my wares since I could make Barbie furniture from 2x4's and sell to the neighbor girls. I've been picking and reselling almost as long - as my mom and grandpa did this. So, I've seen all of this to be true.
Recently, I was called to a home to look at some personal property. I didn't resell those types of items, so I referred it to 2 other dealers who did. Did I charge the other dealers for a referral? Nope! I could have, people do this. I didn't because, those dealers will network with me. Share my name with someone who calls them to pick rusty farm junk. This is networking. Even if they don't share - I did my part - reap what you sow kinda thing.
Just yesterday, I ran into a guy who came to an estate sale we did. He asked me to come and pick some stuff he bought out from houses he was hired to clean. He made a list of items I was looking for and said he would go dig them up. He told me what he is looking for, what he resells. I assured him I would be on the look out for those items or when I come across someone selling I would share his name. We could even work out a trade. This is networking.
Don't be jealous of someone who is in your area doing the same thing you are doing. Introduce yourself, network, "play nice," be a mentor to someone and help them. In doing so, you really are helping yourself and your business. So, let's share:
"Hi, my name is Jacky, my business is Town Hall Trinkets, LLC. I am an antique dealer and folk artist. I am certified as a Personal Property Appraiser, help individuals and families in all areas of estate consulting, buy out estates and conduct estate sales. I do event planning and promote many events in our area - starting the Ringle Harvest Day here at our farm. I love to work with wool, needle felt, paint and re purpose items. I also volunteer and have been hired to teach all kinds of classes in arts and homesteading skills. I'm crazy about chickens. My nick-name is Dicky Bird and this is my blog, which I love writing!"
If any of this interests you, click on the links above to message me or leave a comment. Thanks. Let's work together!
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
No comments:
Post a Comment