I just got an email that got me thinking….I had written an article on “The 5 Signs you need a VA” and paid a service to submit it to ezine authors. So far, I’ve gotten one inquiry from someone who read the article online which is a better response rate than I’ve gotten from some more expensive advertising! Plus, it was just submitted yesterday, so I’m hoping inquiries and web hits will increase.
Anyway, the services this entrepreneur wanted was not in my skill set, and I told her so, told her what my business focuses on, and gave her some suggestions of where to find someone who can meet her needs. It was 3 paragraphs at most.
She wrote me back the nicest response, complimenting me for writing her back, and offering to help her find a solution. She said so many people would have just ignored a “non-relevant” email. I find that hard to believe. I always answer emails inquiring about my services, except if it’s obviously a spammer. It’s just common courtesy.
My goal isn’t to secure every client I come in contact with. If it’s not a match, there’s nothing either of us can do about it. The win-win is when everyone’s needs are met–I gave this client possible solutions to her needs, and without asking for it, she offered to pass my name along to other professionals she knows. You can’t beat that!
Now what would have happened if I didn’t answer her email? Food for thought.