You’re busy, I get that.
When I email you, it may not be a priority for you to respond in full at that moment.
No problem.
Well, yes, maybe there is a problem.
If you are in the relationship-building business (and if you manage a Global MicroBrand you are…and you do), then you have to remember that there is someone else on the other end of that email.
I’m not saying you need to respond to EVERY single email/IM/VM you get…what I am saying is that…if you want to build long-term relationships where you have people vested in your success, you need to show some empathy. Radio silence is a bad idea.
Case in point:
A few weeks ago, I was introduced to a woman who works for a non-profit in the DC area. She said to me, “I’ve heard about the WOM Slam and think it might be good for our organization. Can we chat about it?”
We chatted for 20 minutes pleasantly and she said, “follow up with me next week.”
Which I did.
Nothing.
And again, nothing.
A third time.
Nothing.
You might say, “Ah, but you are the one trying to sell here!”
And you are right, I am.
But what this woman fails to recognize is that she has a chance to strengthen her network, reputation, Global MicroBrand even if she says “No” or “I’ll get back to you in a month, things are crazy.”
By not responding, she is saying “I don’t really care about your time or what you are trying to accomplish.”
So, sure I may not get this sale which isn’t good, but she’s not building a long-term relationship, which is far worse.
Now, contrast that with this other potential client.
And Auren Hoffman says that successful people return phone calls.
(Lest you think that I only fail to make sales, feel free to check out some of the new additions to the client roster.)