We took on a tough assignment, selling a general contractor business in a small town. We knew it was tough as did the referral source and the client.
And we found a buyer, a perfect buyer as they matched well on:
- Culture
- Customer and project type
- Integrity
The most interesting aspect is: The buyer came by referral.
It shows why it’s important to know a lot of people and, most importantly, not be afraid to ask if they can help. And people love to help (when they can). Our source didn’t know the buying firm well but knew they were in the same space and ethical.
For over 20 years one of our mantras is what a client said after selling a business and buying two others. He said, “I would never buy from or sell to someone I don’t like.”
The same with generating business, you have to like and trust the person you’re referring to because you’re putting your reputation on the line.
Bottom line, know a lot of people, do what you’re supposed to do, do good work, and good things will happen.
“People never believe in volcanos until the lava overtakes them.” George Santayana
“Practical politics consists in ignoring facts.” Henry Adams
