I have been an executive search professional since 1997 (20 years this October). I could have not made this long term and successful without clients who have believed in me.
Think about it: when a client signs an agreement to work with you, they are saying that they believe in your passion and believe that you are the right person to collaborate with.
Here’s a work commandment I try to live by: “don’t forget the people who got ‘ya here.”
Two recent examples:
- A former co worker who later became a client recently started a new sales position and needed some of my best referrals to get started. I quickly went back and went through each and every contact I have and gave him the best ones that could get him off to a good start.
- Another former client was laid off from a company. He had given me various executive search opportunities over the years. He needed robust referrals to help him with his job search. Again, I reviewed each and every contact and gave him the best ones that would add value for him.
My point is that you can’t be successful in the business world without mutual help. You have to have collaborative partners that believe in you. In return, ALWAYS return the favor with quick action and the highest level of concern.
Treat your clients like family especially when they are in need. They will not forget that kind act and it should jog your memory of “who got ‘ya here.”