If you read this blog often enough, you know I’ve been targeting a lot of auto repair shops lately. Well, a few days ago, I was talking with a new potential client who mentioned to me that the garage he currently rents out is getting way too expensive for him. I happened to remember a client I signed a few weeks back mentioning that he wanted to rent out one of his beys so he could retire sooner. So I put the two of them in touch and, long story short, the new guy ended up leaving his current garage and renting out the bey of my client at a more reasonable price. And because of my actions, I ended up not only making my current client happy, but I made a connection for the new guy that allowed him to save money every month and, of course, he now insures through me. Both clients have already told me they have a few business owner friends they’d like for me to meet to insure them as well. I’d say this was a win-win-win situation!
My point is, if you have the opportunity to help out a client or two, do it! Expect nothing more than knowing you went above and beyond for these clients who will remember that in the future when they are talking with their business owner friends. I have no doubt they will recommend you! And, if they don’t? No worries, you can still sleep at night knowing you did a good thing for someone else.
Although you may not always come across a situation like I had where it would be easy to see the connection, you can be prepared in case an opportunity comes along. Make sure you keep a list of reputable professional contacts (handyman, plumber, electrician, real estate agent, etc – preferably those that are already your clients) so that when a client mentions a certain need, you can open your file and recommend a great person to help them out. And, on the flip side, request to be recommended from these people as well if and when they come across someone in need of insurance.
Your turn. Have you had a similar situation where you were able to help out a client or potential client in a way you didn’t expect? How did it work out?
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Melissa Ash/NJ’s Business Insurance Lady Irwin Edelstein Associates, Inc. Tel: 732-549-1800 | 732-317-1979
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njbusinessinsurancelady 
You make an excellent point about helping someone else simply knowing it was the right thing to do – and word of mouth goes a long way. I worked in real estate and learned it went a long way to connect people and many of them refer you to their associates and friends. Keeping a list ensures you have these connections at your fingertips when needed. More people need to do business this way.
Thanks, Tammy! I’m glad this is something you found value in while you were a real estate agent. Are you in insurance now?