In a general question on Linked In, Kris Pasquini asked what relationship marketing meant to other business owners. It being New Year’s Eve, there aren’t many answers yet!
However, when I think about relationship marketing, I really hone in on the word relationship. Answers.com says that a relationship is: “The condition or fact of being related; connection or association.” So, it seems to me that if I want a relationship with someone, I need to connect to them and develop an association. True connection isn’t a quick, “Here’s what I offer, will you buy it?” conversation. But many people think that it is!
A relationship needs care and feeding and over time it blossoms. Like you, I have friends that span across my life, from when I was a teen to those I’ve met in the last year. I tend to hang on to people. (I’m still in touch with my 1960s pen pal from England — we were “Beatlemaniacs” together!) In order to do that, it’s always made sense to put energy into the relationship.
So when I came to create my own business and learned to market, relationship marketing seemed natural. It could be personal relationships or relationships across the ocean — much easier today in terms of email! Some people come and go quickly. Some seem to be destined to hang around for a while.
I’m blessed because most of my customers and clients have the same attitude towards relationships that I do. I’m touched by their sharing and caring and profound trust in me. And their love.
Here’s an example of that love…
Tiny Little Bitty Miz Scarlett is a gift straight from the heart of one of my clients. She took the time to learn about me and the fact that my husband and I have way too many bears! And she knew we’d always have room in our hearts for one more. She also took the time to order a bear from Sternsy Bears and select just the right one.
This is a relationship at it’s best, with both people on equal footing giving and getting the best from each other.
May your new year be filled with wonderful opportunities to develop relationships. The marketing part will come along….
