The referral

Getting an introduction
© Kathye Killer

I think the referral is a killer approach for any cold call. It’s most useful when you don’t know your client that much, or don’t know if your offer will make any sense to his operation.

For example, when looking for a job, it’s much easier and more productive to ask your contacts to review their lists of acquaintances for someone that might be interested in hiring someone like you. They may, or may not, have the job opening you’re looking for, but, this indirect approach will take the stress out of the conversation for both of you.

You could say: ” …Thought I’d call you. I’m looking for a job. Would you be kind enough to check your list of contacts to see if someone could be interested in hiring a good architect? ”

Then, tell them to expect an email with your resume, and ask them to forward this email with a short introduction to those he feels are an appropriate fit to your skill offering, with a copy to you.

You can use this same approach when cold calling to offer your company’s services or products —it releases the steam out of the cooker.

It’s a very productive baby step to prospect your network.

BTW, don’t forget to thank the person that introduced you.