Treat Your Contacts Well

In the PR industry we rely heavily on our contacts and network of people in the industry. It is so important to treat your contacts well and develop a genuine and authentic relationship with people.

Like I always say, you never know where someone will end up so don’t burn bridges over petty things. I have seen many people come and go that do this and then wonder why no one wants to deal with them.

There are two philosophies we live by in business…work towards win-win in relationships and help people out…even if you don’t get anything out of it.

Every negotiation in business needs to be win-win for both parties and not about “using” “abusing” “taking advantage” or taking more out of something knowing it isn’t fair to the other party. I always try to imagine myself in the other party’s shoes and what would be fair and reasonable from their perspective. As well as obviously considering what is fair and reasonable for myself and/or my clients (if I am negotiating on their behalf). I believe this is important because you become known to be fair and not ruthless (in a nasty kind of way), and people like working with people they actually like. By no means am I saying don’t be assertive…you need to be when negotiating. But there is a nasty way and a kinder way to negotiate in business.

Throughout my whole career I have always tried to help people out and connect people for their benefit. Often I have not “gotten anything directly” out of doing this and it has taken my time to help others out. So many people seem to be short sited and only do things if it directly benefits them. Again, this is not a good way to operate in business as people see this. I am a big believer in karma. And you never know when you will need some help…and someone you helped in the past might be the person that can help you in the future. So be nice…help someone out when you can.

Small things are actually the big things when building relationships. Although we live in the modern world with technology…sending a hand written note or card goes a long way to say thank you. So pick up the pen and paper every now and then.

If you are new to the industry or a city…make sure you treat your new contacts well so you have long lasting working relationships.

~ The Dawn til Dusk Publicity team

(*Image Source: Nelosa)