How many times have you been asked a question that started, “Do you know …” As humans, it is our nature to ask others for their advice and opinions. A fantastic way to build your business is by becoming the person who when someone asks that question their response is, “I don’t know, but I bet Susan knows …”

A few years ago I began introducing strategy calls with several of my clients. This gave me the opportunity to hear what was on their plate and to provide some feedback for them. Often times they would ask “do you know …” or “can you suggest …”. Even when I didn’t know the answer I would reply with “I don’t know, but I will find out.” And that is exactly what I did. The minute our conversation ended I would research and ask questions until I found the answer. My clients quickly came to depend on my as a resource. By doing this is provided me with an opportunity to learn the struggles and questions that were most prominent in the minds of my clients and I was able to better service their needs.

How better to grow your likeability factor than to encourage those who already like you, and are referring others to you, a “reward”. Again it doesn’t have to be a large reward; it can be free services or products, a coupon or even a simple thank you card.

Remember people are more likely to do business with people because a friend has said they should. Most businesses are built primarily through word-of-mouth and if you remind people you are open to receiving referrals than they are more likely to remember to refer business to you.

Oftentimes we don’t suggest until the problem presents itself, provide your clients with an “incentive” to keep you top of mind and suggest before the problem presents itself.

Believe it or not, you are an expert.

Each and every one of us is an expert at something and others are definitely interested in learning from you. More importantly, people love things that are free!! Creating a free report or e-book is a great way to showcase your expertise and assist others at the same time. It is also a fantastic way to BUILD YOUR LIST!!

Fortunately there is nothing that states how long a report or e-book must be so don’t allow your fear of writing to hold you back. Simply jot a few thoughts on paper and share them. If you don’t quite know how to say it you can utilize plr (private label rights) documents and simply “spruce” them up with your own personality and pizzazz or you can also contract with a ghostwriter to turn your point forms and ideas into a report you can share with your existing and potential clients.

It is a fantastic marketing tool and a great way to build your business. Good luck and happy writing!!