The 3 Commandments of Business: Knowing, Liking and Trusting

This seems to be a very popular topic as of late! I believe it's always been around, how could it not be, it's so logical?

But as logical as I and probably many of you think it is, it's amazing how some people just don't seem to get it.

The reality is if you want to attract and keep clients, you have to figure out ways to get them to know, like and trust you.

I have to admit I have met a couple of coaches that I didn't particularly care for but they did great work and had great products. So, I bought their products but I never signed up to work with them privately or in a group setting. In fact, that was years ago and even though I am still on their email list, I haven't spent a penny.

So, how does one go about this phenomenon? Let's say you are at a Networking Event. It's pretty straight forward it seems. Wear nice, appropriate clothes, smile and just be a friendly person.

We have all met that person who can't seem to stop talking about themselves. Telling us what their business is, telling us various success stories, and basically just bragging about how wonderful they are. I am thinking of this one gentleman in particular. Now, if I had asked him "What do you do?" then his answer might have been fine, but I never even asked! I guess that's why that sticks out in my mind. Don't do that.

And don't be a wall flower. You came there to meet people right? Then grab your beverage of choice, put on your smile and go meet someone, especially someone standing by herself, probably feeling as awkward as you are.

People love to talk about themselves. When you ask them about what they do, they will be more than happy to tell you. Then you simply ask curious questions. It's more than just knowing about their business its knowing who they are as people. We all are much more than our business cards.

People have to get to know you before they can make a decision about whether they like you or not. Even if you don't meet someone in person say at a networking event or a conference, there are still a wide variety of ways people get to 'know' you. Here's just a few: • Your website • Your blog • Your articles • Your posts on forums or discussion boards • Your picture (yes, your picture!)

You have no idea how important your picture is! People don't care about your Avatar or logo. They want YOU. I have said this before, but if someone wants me to friend them or link to them on line if they don't have a real picture, or if it's a really strange picture, I just don't respond.

If you want people to like you they need to know you also respect them. This means responding within at least 24 hours of a call or an email. It means honoring who they are and their time. That's the one thing we can't ever get back, so respect your own and respect others.

If you have clients call you for their appointment, be sure you are there. If you call them, be sure you call right on time. And end right on time.

All these things are what bring about trust. I trust that you will do what you say you will do and you can trust me in same.

People do business with those they know, like and trust. It's really not a complicated is it?