12 Ways to Get People to Want to Do Business With You

It's no secret that building a business is about building the right relationships. But how do you attract the right contacts? Here's a quick 12-step guide to securing the most important professional relationships—and doubling your revenue as a result.

Magnetism, as you recall from physics class, is a powerful force that causes certain items to be attracted to refrigerators.” —Dave Barry

1. People tend to do business with people they like.

So, behave in a way that makes you likable. Be polite and patient. Avoid being crude, rude, gruff, or impatient. That sort of thing.

2. People are attracted to people who keep their word.

So when you make a promise, do exactly what you promised, by the deadline you promised—or sooner.

3. People are attracted to people whom they believe have their best interests at heart.

They know you have their best interests at heart when they hear you give them advice that benefits them the most, in spite of the fact that you won’t make any money by doing so.

4. People are attracted to people they believe are experts in their fields—the “gurus.”

To use this principle, first you need to actually become a leading expert in your field through practice, research, training, education, and study.

5. People are attracted to people who are honest, ethical, and aboveboard.

So why lie in your marketing (and elsewhere) when telling the truth is so much more effective at getting you business?

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