Winning a deal or completing a project always feels good. As with most people. we are off to find the next deal. If you take some time to celebrate the win by analyzing each and every step, then the next deal or project will go much more smoothly.
It is the analysis of what went right and what can be improved that will teach you how to streamline your processes. If you are used to winning all of the time then there is a chance you are not learning how to make the system work better for you. When the time comes and you do not get the win, you will be at a disadvantage because you have not taken the time to figure out the best way to do it right.
Let me give you an example. I have a friend, we will call him Frank, that always found clients for his small business. He never had to hunt for anything. He went for a few years depending on his colleagues for business. It just so happened that several of his contacts retired or changed jobs and Frank no longer had the connections when he needed them. Had Frank taken the time to discover why his services were needed and how to get into other parts of the company, he would not be in the same position today. Frank lost touch with how to handle his farm effectively but not stopping to celebrate and analyze the situation. I am sure we have all been in this position at one time or another.
If you can imagine moving to a new city without any connections and you want to start a business? Many people do, and knowing how to make the win is the key to their success.
Here are some tips on celebrating:
1. Get a reference letter to add it to your "Win" book.
2. Ask for referrals into the same company or outside it.
3. Take your contact to lunch as a thank you.
4. Ask how you can be of assistance in the future.
Celebrating clears the mind and sets the tone for the next project.
Bette Daoust, Ph.D. is a member of the National Speakers Association and speaks about business development issues for businesses of all size. She has spoken for non-profit organizations, associations and large enterprizes. Her companies include http://www.BlueprintBooks.com and http://www.BizMechanix.com. She has developed a Credit Repair Kit http://www.CreditRepairForEveryone.com to help business and individuals get control of their financial life and make the best of their money. Dr. Daoust helps businesses move towards their full potential by planning and executing business, marketing, and PR plans. You can contact Bette through any of her websites.