Simple Ways To Be A Connector

Be A Connector

The Connector is the person that everyone knows and they are the one that everyone wants to know. Why? They are not afraid to make the connections.

Pay attention to what people need and when they express that need tell them, "I know someone who would be perfect to fill that need for you. This person is amazing at what they do. You will be happy to be in the hands of a professional. I will let them know to call you. You should expect a call from them this week."

Be A Listener

In your day-to-day life people from all different backgrounds are around you talking about the things that are important to them. Learn to be a listener for key phrases that are the hints that they may have a need in their life, this will help you be a good Connector. For example, young couples may be looking to purchase their first home, while older couples may be looking to downsize. Anyone talking about buying a home will need a mortgage and a real estate agent. To try to buy a home without a real estate agent would put them at risk of liabilities. Not having a discussion with a Mortgage Broker could cost them thousands of dollars in fees later. You are doing a huge favor to anyone you recommend to one of your CIBN collaborating Members.

Anyone who just had a baby, or who has children in school is in need of financial planning. Anyone starting a business needs an accountant or a bookkeeper. If you know someone complaining that they need to lose weight they need the health products provided by a fellow CIBN member. Learn to be a good listener and you will be a provider of good quality leads. You already know these people in your family and your friendships.

Standing in line at the bank, or in a coffee shop, you hear conversations. Why not jump in? What would you lose? You don’t know the person now, and you will never see them again. Offer the services of someone you know!

If you own a business that deals with other businesses, you are in a primary position to bring leads to your network. You have many clients who would want to take part in the network too! Who have you been doing business with? If this person is a trusted client that you respect and admire they will also be a great referral for someone in your CIBN group.

Hand Out Business Cards

Get a business card holder and carry it with you. Keep a few extra cards from every member in your club. When you are having that discussion as a Connector pull out the cards and find the one you need. Write your name on it so the prospect will know who referred them to the professional in your chapter. Also get the contact information of the person you are talking to so you can pass it on at your next weekly meeting.

Send Connecting Emails

You were in the CIBN meeting and thought of a great lead for your fellow member. You gave out that lead so now, don't drop the ball. Quick, get our your phone and use email or social media to send a message to that referral. Say something like, " I was thinking about you today and it occurred to me that a person in your position (or circumstance) may need the help of a professional. I was just having lunch with my friend _____________ who has done a fantastic job for some of my other friends/clients and I believe that the two of you need to meet. I gave him your number because I think it is really important that you talk to him/her."

If you do this by email CC both parties and introduce them via email. Also address the service person you are referring by saying, “Bob, I realize that you are incredibly busy, but can you please make some time to meet with ____________? I would consider it a personal favour.” This type of communication places value and urgency on the conversation and makes you a great Connector.

By Kerry George

Check out the CIBN Website at https://thecibn.com/ and connect with our CEO, Kerry George on her LinkedIn page linkedin.com/in/kerrygeorge

As the CEO at CIBN Connect, Kerry George inspires business owners with vision and passion and allows them to thrive in every circumstance.

Kerry is a professional networker who has attended over 6000 networking meetings and has been a keynote speaker for hundreds of online and live events.

As you can imagine, a few things have gone wrong in running that many events. Kerry always keeps a sense of humor during the chaos, which has allowed her to continuously be in good spirits to help other entrepreneurs work through their stuff. (linkedin.com/in/kerrygeorge)