My post last Friday entitled "Grace Under Fire" has generated quite a response, representing both the good and the potential negative of social participation.
First the good. I've seen a near 20 percent jump in daily readership of the blog during the past three days, as well as an increase in a number of subscribers. Plus, I am scoring a healthy 2.7 page views per visitor which indicates many of these new readers are trolling around a bit reading previous posts.
A positive in terms of overall awareness and thought leadership.
Moreover, I've had a couple of long-standing relationships and prospects message me directly with words of encouragement. Here are a few examples:
--Grace under fire is a brilliant post. Well done you!!!!
--You did the right thing. Well done. When one client leaves, a better one will walk in the door especially for a fantastic team like yours.
Another check in the plus column for relationship building.
So...what's the negative?
In speaking with a prospect today about the possibility of funding for a social media marketing pilot program, he asked to revisit the issue of budget and compensation for our firm. Here is a rough paraphrase of the conversation:
He says: I'm thinking you might want to cut your rates by 20 percent to make sure you get this assignment. From what I understand, you are hungry for business at the moment.
I reply: Where did you hear that?
His response: I read your blog.
2 comments:
So, it's kind of funny right - with a client who squeezes your nuts like that - when (if) the going gets rough, does he really assume you'll have his back 100% or even remain loyal should they themselves get in a little jam? Works both ways doesn't it? I'm always amazed how people don't think further than "I got the 38 at your temple right now, kiss my ass" - a short-term strategy Soprano moment :)
@Jerome - nice Soprano reference.
Although a bit surprised, I took the "let's renegotiate rates" comment as upbeat as possible.
I recognize that executives have a responsibility to their company (and its shareholders) to put in place the most favorable business terms possible with their vendors.
It is what it is.
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