Your Network: A Wealth of Resources

A Wealth of Resources

A title like this tends to turn one’s thoughts to bank accounts or inventory or some other form of physical riches. However, each of us has a network of abundance that we regularly overlook. Just like post-its placed near computer screens, born to remind us of what we already know about ourselves, so does our network of friends, family and associates. These people not only can speak well of us and the services we have to offer, they WANT us to succeed. Some even have a vested interest in it. Yet, for reasons too numerous to mention, we consistently forget to involve them in our business building efforts.

When was the last time you concertedly tapped this resource? Do your friends, family and associates know about the progress you’ve made in the past in year in your business? Now, is the perfect time to reconnect.

A twist on those around-the-holidays update letters we get from relatives:

Write a warm and soulful letter to your network of friends, family and associates to help expand your opportunities … as you spread a little holiday cheer.

The purpose is to create connection, share information about what you’re doing and show your network that you’re still in the game. It’s also an opportunity to give them a sneak preview of what’s to come from you in the New Year, i.e., new programs, services or even what things you’re most looking forward to, such as a new training to hone your expertise. It is essentially to show people you are succeeding. It is also a way for you to take time to acknowledge your success in the past year.

Presentation Helps

First, get the paper.Use your letterhead, or if you are really in the holiday spirit, go to an office supply store and pick up a packet of holiday print paper of your choice. Or if you are more of a techie, you can easily create an email, adding free holiday icons or imbedding your company logo into an e-letter you are creating. However, I find hard copy letters of this sort work best.

Now … What to Write?

Before you actually start to write, you want to remember to keep in mind the tone: warm, conversational, sociable, yet professional (as in error free!).

A good sample format is as follows:

-         Dear (FRIEND’s NAME)

-         In the spirit of the holidays, I’m writing to wish you a wonderful season and to share what’s new and good in my life.

-         (Share your favorite three accomplishments in your business—for example,) I’ve just signed my 100^th client milestone…. I am opening a new office! Staring in 2008, I am starting my much requested _____ service! You get the drift.

-         On a personal note,… (Share what you’re holiday traditions you’re looking forward to.)

-         And in the New Year, I’m looking forward to… (Share something you’re looking forward to in your business or life that is related to your business growth: new programs, services, a training you will be undertaking, etc.)

-         (FRIEND’s NAME), as 2007 comes to and end, I am wishing you a joy-filled holiday and a wonderful 2008!

-         (Add your newsletter subscription info in the post script like this:) Start receiving more news about me and valuable tips and articles about (YOUR MODALITY) by signing up for my email newsletter. (Add sign up instructions.)

Feel free to adapt this template to your business.

This type of business-building method is not restricted to the holidays. Ideally, it is something that could be done from two to four times a year. To further encourage participation, you might also offer a special incentive to anyone who procures a referral who leads to a solid client.

Happy Networking and Holidays,

Karin