Networking for your customer's benefit

Networking: For your customers benefit

We normally think about networking from the stand point of how it benefits us. Most of us know that networking is important to advance our careers. It is also key if you are looking to change careers. How many times have you heard of someone who gained business or a new job because he/she “knew someone”? Maybe this has even been the case for you. It could even be argued that the more successful someone is the more networked they are. Simply put, the more people you know (and know you), the more likely you are to complete the business transaction, get that job and/or achieve your goals. Likewise, lack of networking will cost you business.

We cannot possibly be all things to our customers. You may be able to give the dental office many of the products they need, and most of the services they need, but what about the rest? What happens when a dentist asks you for a product that you don’t carry, or for a service that you don’t provide? Do you suggest another supplier? If not, you should. You’ll be surprised how this gesture builds a level of trust and respect with your customer. You become more than just the “bur rep”, the “equipment specialist”, the “service tech”, the “handpiece repair guy” or, yes, even the “retail rep”. What you do become is a valuable resource for your customer -- a trusted ally. I have seen this work time and time again. The most successful dental sales reps are well-connected in their community and in the industry.

So where do you begin your networking? You can network at the local dental society meetings, at the dental trade shows, on DSP, Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter for starters. Happy networking for your success and the success of your customers.