In the Know

Connections

by Debbie Kirkland, Director of Investor Relations

Are you a one-and-done person? Did you perhaps say, “I went, nothing happened"? Don’t give up so easily! According to experts, you will likely have to connect with a prospective client 5 – 8 times before they decide to consider your offering. If it feels like John Boy has all the connections in the room, it may be because he has been working on them for YEARS. That doesn’t mean that you can’t accumulate the same connections. It just means you have to be patient.

It’s a bit like starting a diet. Some people want to hit it hard and fast and accumulate those numbers in the first month or two. Others like to take the slower, gentler approach. You have to find the style that is best for you when it comes to acquiring those connections, but remember - patience. No one likes to encounter a bull in a china shop.

Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) provides many opportunities for you to find your style. Whether it is at TCOB, a luncheon, or a Ribbon Cutting, inperson connections can be your strongest. The other person gets to see your face, look you in the eye, hear your words, and read your body language. We also know that not everyone has the ability to make multiple in-person connections, and GRCC can also help you behind the scenes.

Perhaps you can manage an in-person event if it is on your schedule? If that is the case, consider hosting a GRCC facilitated event (Open House, After Hours, Ribbon Cutting) at your location and time of choice. You can also ask any of your GRCC staff to provide an electronic introduction to a particular member(s) you have been looking to meet, and then you can schedule a meeting that is convenient for you.

Others need to just make sure their name gets seen and recognized to make their connections. GRCC can help in this arena as well. Being a sponsor of a GRCC event is a terrific way for people to connect with your business name and know that you