This post is the third in the series concerning word of mouth strategy. The introduction is here, with the second found here.
Where’s the Value?
Now it is time to place emphasis on finding valuable groups or associations to join in the further development of your word of mouth strategy. I included the word valuable in that last sentence because there is an important principle to consider when determining which groups make sense for you. The people you associate with can either make you a better person and construction business owner, or they can waste your time and lessen your opportunities for personal or professional growth—that simple.
Personal Groups
If you think of every group you join as an opportunity to sell, you’ve gotten off the path, and you’re doomed. On the other hand, if you look at the groups you join as a way to help others and to find ways to improve yourself, you’re on track. Some personal groups you might consider are:
team sports
your house of worship
hobby clubs
a community theater group
places with like-minded attendees such as gyms or cooking classes
and the like
You know where this train of thought leads. The people in these groups may or may not require your services, but chances are they know someone who does. It is always good to meet folks who have common interests, giving you a foundation for friendship or rapport. When people in these groups get to know and like you, they have become one thread in your word of mouth strategy.
Opt for Two Different Types of Professional Groups
When it comes time to decide where to put your money when you must determine which professional associations will be “worth it,” you have two different types to consider. They each have unique benefits. And both should be included in your word of mouth strategy.
Remember, joining the right organizations is part of a long-term effort. There are no shortcuts. What you’re doing is building your reputation and establishing yourself as the person who:
gets the job done right
follows through on his or her word
is fun to hang with
knows the value of a team
is willing to listen to other’s ideas
doesn’t shy away from hard work
can lead others
and so on.
Along the way, you’re building informal partnerships and relationships that will be of value to both parties.
In general terms, the two types of professional groups you need to align with are construction-industry-related, and your customer’s industry-related.
For example, you might wish to join a professional trade group such as the American Subcontractors Association (ASA) on the construction-industry side and the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM®) on the customer’s industry side.
Construction Related Options
Here is a handful of construction-related organizations you might be interested in.
This list is not exhaustive – not nearly – not even close. That is why I wasn’t in the least bit surprised to find highly specialized associations like the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) included in the lineup. If you don’t already know the options available in your trade, turn to your friend (and mine) Lady Google, and see what answers she reigns down on you. Could be fun!
Other Industry Options
The act of joining associations outside the construction industry is a simple yet optimal strategy leading to success. Get in with the folks you would like to do business with. That doesn’t mean you should stalk them on the golf course, tennis court, or elsewhere. It means if you want to build restaurants, one way to get to know the movers and shakers of that industry is to become a part of their association.
Pay your dues. Pay your dues in all the ways:
Fork over the cash to join
Attend the mixers
Volunteer to serve
Present webinars or lunch and learns
Contribute to the fundraisers
Here are a few of the groups outside of the construction industry you might like to consider:
Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) (Or whichever state seems preferable to you – hint: the one you live in.)
Commercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Arizona Chapter
Joining is Worth It!
Both types of organizations will likely give you some essential perks, such as:
Access to market and industry trend information
An exchange of ideas and information among industry peers
Contact with informal business partners
Member participation in technical and safety standards development
Regular updates on significant regulatory changes to ensure compliance
But it is the “other organizations” which are more likely to give you:
Opportunities to promote your business
An excellent sounding board for learning how to serve your best clients well
One last thought
Look for opportunities within and outside of these formal groups to join mastermind groups or round table discussions. Networking with others in your industry and those in your target market is a significant portion of your word of mouth strategy.
In the next post of this series, the topic will be Vendors and Service Providers.
Construction Contractors look to The Profit Constructors to provide advocacy in dealing with:
Clients and customers
Employees and subcontractors
Vendors and service providers
Governmental entities
Working with The Profit Constructors gives Construction Contractors the means to organize their operations in ways that help them:
Remain informed
Avoid hassles
Reduce risks
Be future-ready
Ready for action? Or want to know more? Get in touch today to schedule a complimentary discovery call. New possibilities await. 866-629-7735
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