As a small business owner your time is very valuable, which is why dealing with decision makers is critical. Like yourself, the decision makers make things happen for you and your business.
Which decision makers do you need to worry about? All of them including customers and vendors. When you deal with the decision makers in an organization you cut away the levels that impede you and your small business.
Think about it for a second. Is your time important? Do you want to do something once and not again? If so, then you need the decision makers.
Decision makers are sometimes walled off by people who think they have their best interest at heart. These human land mines keep you from reading the person you need to talk with. Here are some ideas on getting around those human land mines and make the contact you need.
Personal letters: These are extremely effective in today’s world of email and other electronic communication. Be brief with your point, because the decision maker’s time is precious. Outline what you need, why it’s important and how to contact you. Put yourself in the decision maker’s shoes for a second and think about how you would react to the letter you receive? Tailor it to fit that idea.
Voice mail: If you want to make verbal contact with the decision maker try calling early mornings or later in the evening. You stand a better chance of getting the person’s voice mail instead of a gatekeeper. The best case scenario is that you contact the decision maker and impress them with your commitment. Don’t be pushy or demanding when leaving a message, though. A simple message is the best. One that explain who you are, why you’re calling and your contact information including phone number and email address.
Persistence: If the contact you are dealing with inhibits your ability to contact the decision maker, don’t give up. A note dropped, a voice mail left might be all you need to keep the decision maker interested. This should eventually lead to contact and success.
Decision makers can be key supporters of your small business, so treat them well.
