Many entrepreneurs avoid daily business tasks, putting them at a disadvantage. By embracing and consistently completing these essential chores, you can outperform a significant portion of your competition.
What constitutes a business chore? These are routine actions that, when integrated into your schedule, lead to a sense of accomplishment and foster business growth. One such chore is diligent follow-up, encompassing these key steps:
1. **Database Integration:** Transfer business cards from networking events or trade shows into your CRM system (like Outlook). Categorize contacts by event (e.g., “Chamber of Commerce Networking – July 2024”). Surprisingly, only a small percentage of attendees typically follow up, giving you a competitive edge.
2. **Strategic Email Follow-up:** Prepare email templates tailored to different scenarios. Personalize each message, remembering that you’re connecting with individuals, not just organizations. Having several pre-written drafts streamlines this process.
3. **Telephone Connection:** After emailing, schedule a brief follow-up call to explore potential synergies. Avoid direct selling during this initial contact. If you reach voicemail, redial the following day, avoiding multiple calls in a single day.
4. **Personalized Card:** Reinforce your message with a handwritten card. A personalized touch can leave a lasting impression. Sending a physical card demonstrates a genuine interest and can yield a high response rate.
In summary, prioritize these four daily chores:
* Import new contacts into your CRM.
* Send personalized follow-up emails.
* Make brief introductory phone calls.
* Send personalized cards.
Consistently performing these actions will contribute significantly to your business’s success.