You may remember my blog post from April 9 on “Taking the Bull by the Horns.” In that post, I shared a great example of “asking for the business” from a process server I worked with recently. I then discussed ways Virtual Assistants could follow-up and ask for referrals using his example.
My client and I had such a great experience working with Brian. He presented a very professional image. He was polished and business-like, conducting all his interactions with us very professionally. And once the job was fully completed, he asked us for our feedback and referrals. And we were very happy to do so.
Being in Washington, we don’t have much need for much process service in Minnesota. We will definitely pass this fellow’s name around to those who might be able to use his services, but truth be told, those opportunities to do so will in all likelihood be very limited. I’m sure he realizes this as well. And yet today, he offered another great example that Virtual Assistants can take a cue from.
I received an email from Brian. He hoped we were doing well over here on the west coast and let me know that through his networking, he came across a process server in Tacoma that he wanted to recommend to us. He made it clear that he hadn’t actually worked with him, but his communication with this fellow was impressive enough that he wanted to send his contact info our way.
Why does this simple, unassuming email have such an impact? Because in an industry that is rife with unprofessionalism, unbusinesslike operations and fly-by-nights, it offers a stellar example of how to nurture relationships, deliver fantastic customer service and provide added, personable value.
Brian is no dummy. I have no doubt that he realizes as out-of-state customers, we may never work together again. But, he clearly understands networking and building relationships. And he knows that in a highly commoditized industry such as process service, it’s the relationships he nurtures and the value he provides that get the word out about his company and have it standing heads and tails above the rest.
Virtual Assistants, take heed. 
Thanks for commenting. Yeah, the virtual assistant term is really completely idiotic to...
