Share business and press opportunities with your contacts.
Imagine you get a message from a dormant LinkedIn contact asking for your input.
She has launched a podcast and asks which topics in her industry you would like to hear about and whether you can recommend a guest to appear on the program.
It’s been ages since you thought about her. Instead of being perturbed by this unexpected request, you say yes. Of course.
In fact, you know someone who is a terrific speaker and has a non-traditional perspective on the industry that will complement the host’s view.
That’s what happened when Marla Sofer contacted me about her podcast Knowing Me, Knowing You and asked if I knew any financial advisors she might feature.
I immediately replied with the name, bio and LinkedIn profile of someone who fit the bill. Eve Ellis is a financial advisor who focuses on socially responsible and impact investments that align with investors’ values.
Needless to say, they both appreciated the introduction and they have scheduled a conversation.
Perhaps, like myself, you subscribe to several listservs and belong to multiple online groups where you and other members seek information and resources on almost every aspect of business operations daily. Sometimes, these requests are leads for new business:
- Do you know an attorney who practices this type of law in this state?
- What’s your feedback on using a certain software product?
- A potential client needs assistance with this situation. Here’s how to contact them.
There’s always a voice (or four) that chimes in with a name or an insight. The responses are freely given, with no expectation of payback.
Not surprisingly, I have landed business from such requests. I have offered my experience with the product in question. I’ve also introduced colleagues whose skills align with the issue at hand — innumerable times.
Everyone knows someone worth knowing, I’ve often said. When you come across an opportunity for someone to participate in a podcast, speak with a reporter, write an article or take on a new client, consider who in your circle might be the perfect fit and respond to the request.
Pass it on is a win-win-win.
The person who made the request gets a ready resource.
The contact who is referred steps into the spotlight.
You earn the gratitude of both parties.
This Month’s Tip
Be on the lookout for opportunities to connect contacts who are aligned. I subscribe to several services where journalists seek sources for comment. Naturally, my primary focus is an interview for one of my own clients.
My secondary focus is an introduction for someone among my networking contacts. From issues in bookkeeping and DEI to homeschooling and tax, I’ve introduced colleagues to reporters, which has resulted in their being mentioned in news stories. I’ve also referred professionals in the art market to potential clients and helped a nonprofit recruit volunteers for an event 100 miles away from my office.
Last month, a networking contact, with a sideline as a reporter, asked me if I knew anyone who could address succession planning for small business owners.
Certainly. I introduced Ivy Slater, a business coach and CEO of Slater Success, to Susan Mangiero , a contributor to TheStreet.com.
Be a connector.
Contact
Opportunities for connection abound. Before you discard a request as irrelevant for yourself, think of who among your many contacts might be the appropriate resource. Sharing the item opens the door to a re-connecting conversation, which is always worthwhile. Contact me at Janet@JanetLFalk.com , book an appointment here or call me at 212.677.5770. Let’s review your incoming requests and see how you may pass it on.
See also Do the Right Thing.