Written by: Vickie Sullivan | April 07, 2020
Be Helpful—But Do It Strategically
During this national emergency, many of us are doing our part by offering free things: webinars, coaching sessions, whatever we can do to get others through this tough time. The hope is that folks will remember this assistance when it’s time to hire our expertise. We feel good about helping and “getting out there.” Everybody wins.
At the risk of sounding like Debbie Downer … this assumption is not a given. Will folks be grateful? Absolutely. Will you get some hearty “thanks!” Sure. But don’t count on people hiring you later. Many of those future sales conversations in your head will not happen.
Here’s why:
• Market saturation. When crisis hits, our focus narrows to survival. In that mindset, the deluge of free help starts to look like white noise. Especially when everyone’s offers have similar formats (webinars, zoom meetings, etc.) So, your assistance won’t look like critical help; it’s just another email to throw away.
Listen: How to Help Without Becoming White Noise
• Message saturation. Have you noticed that most of us are saying the same thing? Yep, we are. And other folks have noticed, too. When we give platitudes and general tips, we no longer appear as the go-to resource. We’ve become just part of the Greek chorus.
Let me be clear: Am I telling you not to help? No. My point is to either give without expectation or give strategically and plant seeds for later. No wrong answer here. Your choice.
Let’s be safe out there.
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