Make a Great First Impression
Here are some things you might not know about first impressions in business:
When it comes to business development, overcoming these challenges and making a great first impression is essential. I have approached this by coming up with both a six-word brand summary and a fifteen second statement.
When I’m at a networking event, and someone asks me what I do? I say “We build visions and exceed expectations.”
Of course, most people ask what that means, because suddenly, they’re interested. That gives me a chance to follow up with my fifteen second statement: “We are an executive construction management firm specializing in large commercial projects.”
From there, the person I just met might need my services, or not. But it’s certainly likely they will remember meeting me.
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When They Lean, You Lean
Of course, business development isn’t just about making a short pitch and waiting for business to come to you. If the person you are speaking to seems interested or intrigued, engage them a little more.
Remember, that doesn’t just mean talking about yourself and everything you’ve done, can do, or want to do. It also means learning more about the prospect or new connection and understanding where and how you can serve them, or people they might know.
Customers acquired through a referral by someone they know have a 37% higher retention rate, and generate at least 16% more in profits.
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Find Fortune in the Follow-Up
Once you’ve made a connection or even generated lead information through content marketing, the true fortune lies in the follow up.
What does good follow-up look like in construction? When you know the person on the other end has a need for you, collateral like capabilities statements, case studies, or client testimonials can all be fuel for a follow-up email.
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38th and Sheridan Progress Update!
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Visit www.38thandsheridan.com to learn more about the progress and opportunities that continue to surround this project!
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Execute Excellence on Repeat
Taking on business development in construction management requires confidence you can execute on the vision of the project. This means a realistic sense of the scope, your capabilities, the cost versus the budget, the schedule, and more.
After over twenty years of learning by doing, I created my Construction Management Masterclass to share the lessons and best practices that have helped me succeed. I invite emerging professionals to take the class and get exposed to construction management principles early. For those who are more established, I would love your feedback and to hear your own experiences, too.
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Enroll today and strengthen your foundation for success in construction and the skilled trades! Let's lead the way to the future on our own terms.
Sincerely,
Akilah Darden
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