One Member, One Profession: Building Your Expert Reputation
Being the sole representative of your profession in your networking group does not automatically make you the expert. Developing your reputation as an expert requires active participation and strategic actions.
Building Trust and Expertise
Simply being present isn't enough. Engage actively in meetings and interactions. Remember, your fellow members have contact spheres that include other companies doing what you do. Although these competitors are not in the room, you are still competing against them every time you speak.
Enhancing Your Reputation
Delivering knowledgeable and professional one-minute presentations lays the foundation. Some members incorporate a practical tip into their presentations. For example, an insurance broker might remind members to check if their policies cover new Christmas gifts, or a mechanic might suggest getting car batteries checked as the weather gets colder. Consistently delivering high-quality work ensures that fellow members will give you positive Raps during meetings.
Encouraging Positive Raps
Excellence in your work speaks for itself. After completing a job referred to you, thank the referrer. This prompts them to check on the quality of your work and may result in a glowing testimonial. This shows that you are the expert and do a good job, and that the referrer is happy they referred you.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Be mindful of how you communicate your workload. For example, a builder who told the group he didn’t need referrals for five weeks found himself without any referrals for months afterwards. If you are busy, refocus your efforts and ask for Cream referrals—bigger, more prestigious projects—while continuing to remind members of your bread-and-butter work.
Managing Free Advice Requests
While being approachable and offering sensible advice is crucial, avoid giving away too much for free. Professions like lawyers, accountants, painters, and builders often face requests for detailed, free advice. Control the level of free advice by offering to discuss further in a more formal setting, indicating that professional advice is a paid service. Formulate a polite, professional phrase for when free advice requests become excessive. For example, "We need to discuss this professionally; let's set up an appointment."
Practical Tips
Giving away free samples and advice is a proven marketing technique, but keep it measured and controlled. This way, you will be seen not only as the [insert your profession] in the group but as the expert. One is a given and comes with your membership; the other is earned and is priceless.
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