Snowflakes!

Finally ... winter has arrived! At least for a brief few days here in Pittsburgh. In those few days, I actually saw some snowflakes falling.

Remember looking closely at a snowflake as it landed on your jacket and you could see its intricate details and uniqueness. Its fragile nature made you move your arm slowly in order to get a closer view without it melting or breaking.

Think about how this relates to referral marketing. Many people believe the best way to operate in business is under the "golden rule" of "treat others the way you want to be treated". I disagree. I believe in living by the "platinum rule" of "treat others the way THEY WANT to be treated". Like the snowflake, we are all unique, surrounded by the intricate details that make us who we are in this world. As well, we are all very fragile beings and need to be treated with care.

The platinum rule encourages that you work with your referral partners individually. No one plan will work the same way for everyone on your word of mouth marketing team. No one incentive will have the same impact on everyone. The best success is created by truly knowing and appreciating each others differences and understanding how to work with each other to meet our specific needs.

The next time you connect with a referral partner, remember the snowflake. The platinum rule applies to all levels and elements of your relationship. Begin to recognize its impact today!