3 Things to Learn from A Financial Salesman

Over the last several months I have slowly built a relationship with a financial salesman who continues to be persistent. This is not financial advice. This is relational advice that I need to seriously work on and apply to my ministry at church. Thankfully I do not get paid on sales or commission, but possibly my perspective about building relationships can adjust. This particular salesman has been to my house twice and is extremely warm, welcoming, and shows a genuine interest. I keep wondering when he would show back up to my house because he is persistent. Well, he did not show up, instead the third time he called me. Here are the 3 things I can learn from the financial salesman on how to follow up with more families at church and ministry.

1. Decide to commit time and energy investing in a relationship. He is building his new business the old fashioned way of networking, my front door. He is not concerned about the short term, he is only thinking about the long term. Winning someone over, especially their hard earned money takes time and energy.
2. Stay in touch. Don't assume that because you are likable or friendly that people will remember who you are. Come up with a follow up plan within a 3-4 week window of touching base and finding out a little bit more information. Gaining the information is key to maintaining the relationship. 
3. Offer a little help and service along the way. On the third follow up offer something meaningful to the relationship that will allow you to keep your door of influence open. 

There are several ways that I need to be more proactive in following up with guest that come to High Pointe and I am thankful that I can learn something from my financial salesman who is becoming a friend.