9 Connection DO’s for 2018
Businesses and brands, they’re more than products, services and other offerings. When it comes down to those who make it and those who don’t, building (or failing to build) solid connections are often at the core.
It’s a new year, time to make — and break — resolutions. But, this is one you can stick to. Check out the following DO’s to build better connections both internally and externally in 2018.
Already working on your own plan? Sound off; I’d love to hear your thoughts.
1. Honestly Review Your Current Situation
It’s hard to build if you aren’t sure where you stand. Start by looking over the ways you currently interact and build relationships with your team, customers and potential customers. Is one area weaker than another? Is there room for growth across the board? What are you doing well? An honest review can provide a great foundation to build upon.
2. Make an Interest List
Who should you be connecting with this year? Make a list! It could include:
- Internal team members.
- Companies that could be great partners in this new year.
- Social media followers (go network by network)
- Customers.
- Potential customers in various locations within your sales funnel.
- Service providers who help you do what you do.
And maybe — probably — a few that aren’t on this list. No one strategy will work for each target, but, it’s important to make sure no one is overlooked.
3. Make a “Touchpoint” Plan
Not all of your target connection audiences will lead to sales. But, the numbers still matter. According to SalesForce, it takes 6–8 touchpoints to create a viable sales lead. Does that mean 6–8 touches close the deal? No. It does, however, mean a connection might start to form, leading to a greater chance in the long run.
That message you responded to through your customer service email? Great. The likes, follows and comments you left on social media? Also great. But, on their own, they’re not likely to create the connection you’re looking for.
Instead, make a plan for how you can better reach each of your target audiences on a regular, recurring basis. Remember, shoot for 6–8 times before you look for more out of the relationship.
4. ASK Questions
Often, we’re so focused on providing important information that we forget something important; we forget that relationships are two-way streets. Connections don’t form because you’re sending a sales email or sharing something online, even though that’d be great.
Instead, connections form when relationships go both ways. Be sure to ask questions of your target connections. This could be individually, through social media or otherwise. No matter which method you pursue, ask questions to get conversations started.
5. Use Various Means of Connection
Building off of number 4, it’s important that you not rely on a single means of communication when trying to connect. Some individuals may prefer social conversations, emails or texts, but, some might want to talk to a legitimate person before making a purchase decision or before moving forward. In-person meetups and phone calls can go a long way. Failing to mix up the way you reach out to those you’re working on getting to know could lead to relationship failures altogether.
6. Share More Than Your Products
Your business or organization may be built around specific services or products, but, that doesn’t mean that’s all you have to share. The more potential connections learn about what really drives your company, the more likely they are to express interest.
Does your team do something “different,” something that makes them stand out? Do you have a ping-pong tournament on Thursdays? Coffee breakfasts on Mondays? Something else? Share photos and videos of your culture to allow those in your networks to get to know what really makes your company or organization unique.
7. Have Fun
This is especially important for building relationships within your team. A team that has fun together has the potential to do great things. By doing things as a team — fun things like challenges, 5ks, escape rooms or other options, not forced trust falls and team building courses — you’ll better appreciate each other’s strengths, and have more to share than standard office conversation. You’ll also be better prepared to show a united front to customers and those on the outside.
8. Be Natural
Just because you have a schedule of how often you’d like to touch base with potential customers and other audiences doesn’t mean those initiatives have to feel forced. Yes, standard email blasts are important, but so are more natural conversations. Take notes during phone calls then follow up when possible, mentioning points from previous conversations. See something that was shared on social? Mention it during your next meeting. Anything that naturally shows you care can go a long way.
9. Take a Risk or Two
We get comfortable in our day-to-day rituals and routines. But, that doesn’t mean they are working as well as they could.
Worried about going live on Facebook? About putting together a live webinar for potential customers? About mixing up your blogging format? Go for it anyway. Make a change this year and watch what happens!
Make 2018 your year to really engage and connect with the audiences that matter most — or could matter most — to your business. Growth often comes from be willing change. What are you willing to try this year?
