To read Nader Anise's bio on Wikipedia, go to:
Dear ,
First of all, to all the members who have joined the Coptic Chamber, congratulations! T-shirts will be shipped next week and they're so cool! (Thank you for your patience. It took awhile to find the right supplier who could be a long-term partner with us... and I think I found them!)
_______________________________
Onto today's bit of advice:
It's quite common for people (especially if you're in the service industry of other professions) to come up to you and randomly ask for your advice on their various situations.
To lawyers: Do I have a case?
To doctors: Do I have the flu?
To dentists: Can you save my tooth?
To real estate agents: How much is my home worth?
To brokers: Do I need a policy?
To financial advisors: What's the best investment?
And so forth and so on...
And typically, many of these people are trying to get your advice...
For Free!
So, beware.
I'm not saying you can't help people... and I'm certainly not saying it's bad business to respond to their questions...
What I am saying is the best way to handle these situations is by briefly addressing their question (without going into a full-fledged consultation)... and then... directing them to go to your office for an appointment or a more thorough response.
Why not just give them the whole ball of wax right then and there?
1. It's unprofessional -- You want to be in your proper business environment to thoroughly evaluate the situation. Plus, you want the client/patient to experience the same.
2. Going to your office provides a way for you to qualify them. Are they just looking for a freebie or are they serious and willing to come meet you in your office?
3. You are a reflection of your value -- If you communicate to the person that you prefer doing things professionally and in your office, they will also value you and your time more.
Of course, there is the issue of payment. If you're not in your professional environment, there's a much greater chance that you will never get paid for your services.
Remember: How you value yourself and communicate it to others is how they will also value you.
Until next time...
If you have any comments, ideas or suggestions, please email me at: nader@copticchamber.com.
