This scenario occurs often in business and it can be very difficult to navigate. You find out that a close friend or family member did business with someone else, either after or without talking to you. The emotions start to arise and so does the offense.
I experienced this same situation once, and to my regret, I didn’t handle it well. As a result, several relationships were ruined and a few bridges were burned as well.
How you respond is critical in maintaining both your relationships and your professionalism.
You get to choose how you react:
You can either…
1) Break off the relationship out of offense.
2) Continue the relationship but hold a grudge.
3) Value the relationship over the commission and consider how you could improve your product or service in the future.
Let’s take a moment to consider that most friends and family members will do business with your competitors because:
1) They bought impulsively and the rep in front of them facilitated the transaction.
2) They bought a product or service that could meet their need better than yours.
3) They bought without you in the front of their mind
If your sister buys a product that meets her need better than yours, will you:
1) Lead her to feeling guilty and doubtful in her decision.
2) Respect her decision and be glad her need was met, regardless of her choice.
If your neighbor lists their house with a competitor, what approach will you take?
1) Build your wall higher, play your music louder, and park in their space.
2) Take responsibility that you didn’t keep yourself in the front of their mind enough or meet their need.
Never assume that, by simply knowing someone, their business belongs to you. Yes, they are a warmer lead with whom might get an opportunity to serve, but you must still appropriately earn their business. They are never obligated to do business with you. Give them permission to seek other product and services without making them feel guilty.
Too many people are afraid or reluctant to reach out to their Sphere of Influence and ask for business referrals. They become upset when their friends and family don’t utilize their services, and the responsibility is fully their own. Please don’t be that person! If you are struggling with keeping in the front of your family’s, friend’s and past client’s minds with regards to your product and services, Contact Us today and schedule a Complimentary Session with one of Our Coaches!
You’ll be glad you did!
