Occasionally the cosmic tumblers align and multiple separate and distinct conversations gravitate toward one central theme. These seemingly coincidental occurrences have likely increased of late due to the influence of social media algorithms. However, they have been observed since well before the Facebook and the TikTok began shaping peoples’ minds. (Full disclosure: while we do maintain specific profiles, we are not “on” either of the aforementioned platforms.)
Earlier this week, I engaged with three uniquely differentiated coaching clients, each expressing their current frustration with converting social contacts into professional relationships. Their experiences were distinct, yet resembled each other in that, ultimately, it was their own preparation (or lack thereof) that presented the greatest obstacle to successfully and comfortably navigating these situations.
One client shared that their hesitancy was out of respect for the friendship that has spanned decades. Another self-diagnosed their inability to delicately shift the conversation from social and light to more professional and serious. The third admitted to not necessarily wanting to fulfill the duty of servicing a friend or family member should they become a client. Neither identified a time when they focused on preparing for these interactions. Rather, they each feared allocating space to even consider how they might facilitate such a conversation.
All valid and real concerns – and meaningful enough to raise the flag of caution when contemplating these opportunities. In the least, prior preparation presents a chance to exude greater confidence and approach the target with clear intentions. In the most, it nails the mark by fostering an appealing experience so the target may decide for themselves to proceed without risking the current status.
Here are two thought patterns helpful in preparing for approaching people you know well and socialize with, but have yet to engage professionally:
- Weigh in from your own perspective. How would you prefer a close friend or family member reach to you for business purposes? What would that ideal conversation sound like? Where would it occur? What would be said to ensure you don’t change your mind about the other person?
- Consider the external factors that you do not control. How would you feel if (and when) someone else engages your contact as a client? What if a colleague of yours is the one to reel them in? What does your negligence convey to your contact?
Il Punto: You do not have to be in a business development role to take note. For the sake of modern transparency, it makes sense to not discriminate between social contacts and business targets when getting the word out about your work product and services. Everyone in your world wants to know “what you do” as much as they already may know who you are as a person. Preparing a simple, direct and clear conversation will raise awareness, provide opportunities to network warmly, and perhaps stimulate new growth or ideas.
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