Business growth lies in the ability to share leads, referrals and recommendations. Unfortunately some people do not understand the difference in the quality of each action.
Introducing Ponn’s Power Pun: You must Power Network to build a Power Network. Basically, the action of networking with power will allow you to build a powerful network of power people that will help you achieve your goals.
Here’s the difference:
A lead points you in the right direction towards reaching your goal.
A referral is a name of someone who can help you reach your goal.
A recommendation (personal contact from your power network) is a secured path towards goal attainment.
As a foreclosure and short sales specialist, here’s some examples:
A lead was advice to join Real Estate Investors Association so I can offer my specialized services.
A referral was any investor given to me because they are interested in buying distressed homes. This person may be actively looking but not committed to me or my services.
A recommendation (personal contact from my power network) was an investor who was told and convinced to only work with me, because I will give them exactly what they want, when they need it, and hopefully enjoy my company as well.
As you can see, you become more personally involved by sharing the different levels of human-equity tips. This is why I am extremely careful when I share recommendations. While I dish out leads and referrals all the time, I know my reputation is at stake when it comes to my personal and professional recommendations.
Another important point towards building your power network is understanding the distinct difference between talking your business in 30 seconds or less, and promoting someone else’s (which is what you’re doing in giving a referral or recommendation). Given the time constraints, master your business first.
True power lies when your can do both at the same time. Your business will begin to soar when people turn to you for a quality referral or recommendation, and they only recommend you and your services.
Pretty powerful, huh?
One more quick tip: Ponn’s Power lies in the ability to do things right now. So, get up and Power Network Now!
(c) 2005 Ponn M. Sabra, MPH
Ponn M. Sabra, MPH is the Author of “Empowering Women to Power Network”. To learn more about her book and sign-up for FREE tips, articles and resources, visit her at
. Ponn is profiled in Marquis’ Who’s Who of America and Who’s Who of American Women.
