Getting An Introduction

Writen by Bette Daoust, Ph.D.

I have talked about how to get donations and doing volunteer work. You are probably wondering what they have to do with gaining business relationships and giving you more business. Through service organizations you will gain recognition and stature, especially if you get really involved. These organizations also give you opportunities to meet people that you would not normally meet through your regular business channels. Even though most non-profits do not promote doing business with each other, it is certainly an off-shoot of membership. When I change cities, I often go to another Rotary Club to do a make-up meeting. It is here that I can find out more about the city and often someone knows people at the firm I will be visiting. I am always happy to get more information.

If someone in my club knows a person in a company that I wish to approach, I feel comfortable in asking for an introduction. This, at least, will break down some of the barriers. The introduction does not mean endorsement; it simply means that they are willing to share the relationship they have already established with the company. Do not overdo the introduction component with everyone as it will get to be a sore point. You do not want to be known as the person that joined the club just to do business.

Introductions need to be a two way street. If someone takes time to introduce you to someone, you should take time to find out if they need to be introduced elsewhere. Up to this point we have only talked about what you can get out of a service club. You also have to be aware that you will need to determine what it is that you can do for them.

Bette Daoust, Ph.D. is a speaker, author (over 170 books, articles, and publications), and consultant. She has provided marketing, sales, business development and training expertise for companies such as Peet's Coffee & Tea, Varian Medical Systems, Accenture, Avaya, Cisco Systems to name a few. Dr. Daoust has also done extensive work with small businesses in developing their marketing, training, and operational plans. You may contact Dr. Daoust at http://BizMechanix.com. You may also view her latest publications at http://BlueprintBooks.com. Dr. Daoust also writes for the National Networker http://theNationalNetworker.com.