Yesterday, I told you that everyone wants to help. They do! That was one of the great surprise-and-delight results of my early networking quest. When I requested a meeting with a prospect, they invariably said, “Yes!” That is, invariably except for the ones who said, “no.”
There were five of them. I won’t share their names because that is just rude, but it is hard for me to forget them. I have to admit, I was disappointed and it was hurtful to me when they said no or did not respond. I wasn’t asking them for anything but a little consideration. I recognize the extreme value of time and am personally committed to respecting theirs and not taking too much. Bottomline: It seemed to me that they did not value people.
Given the import that I believe all professionals should put on networking and the fact that those five folks gave so little credence to me, I moved on! I would rather spend my resources of time, money, referrals, etc. on businesses and efforts of people who value people.
So, in those rare moments when you get a “no” or no response at all, I suggest that you move on. However, if the prospect is someone who you really want to meet, I suggest the following:
- Find out from them what it would take to get a “yes.”
- Ask whether a phone call would be out of the question instead.
- Go back to the person who made the suggestion or introduction to the prospect. Ask if he or she will intervene on your behalf to re-request the meeting.
- Attend an event where you know the prospect will be. Approach them with a hello, a business card and a promise to follow up.
Whatever the case, don’t get discouraged. Keep at it. Be tenacious. Be fearless. Move on to the next.
Tomorrow, a reminder that everyone has an opinion….