Before signing off on my latest series of blogs offering readers my recommendations for cultivating business relationships and burnishing one’s professional image, I have one more bit of advice along those lines: never sign off without offering your assistance in some manner. The power of a conversation – especially over the phone — becomes amplified considerably when you conclude it on a note of “What can I do to help you?” (however you choose to tailor that message for the individual and circumstances involved).
Now, I’m not talking about a perfunctory offer, but one that’s sincere and authentic. In other words, don’t do say it if you don’t mean it — but you if you want to build relationships, you should always be willing and anxious to be of assistance to your friends, colleagues or associates and constantly remind them that you’re there to lend a helping hand. Or even better, figure out how to be supportive in some way or your own, even if they decline your offer. Little things like a constructive suggestion, an article with useful information, or even an e-mail containing a timely tip can make a big difference, and serve to forever ingratiate you to them.
I hope you’ve found these bits of advice helpful. If there’s any other way I can be of assistance, I’d certainly like to hear from you.
