Mountain Biking

Yesterday, I discovered some new trails not too far from home that were perfect for my two wheeled adventures on a mountain bike. Mountain biking is alot of fun, yet it's not for the timid or risk avoiders. This is a sport that takes strength, endurance, keen sense of awareness and an ounce or two of risk taking.

When on a mountain bike, often times, your following a single track through the woods. That means, there's only room for one bike to fit, following single file. So, if you happen upon a horse, you've got to stop and move off the trail ... the horse is much bigger than you and sometimes very wary of your two wheeled stature. Along the trail, you'll hit many surprises ... roots, fallen trees, rocks, sand, pebbles, streams, puddles, and even a snake or two. You've got to have your wits about you and be ready for anything! You've got to be prepared to stop on a dime or push harder to go up hill.

All of this reminds me of referral marketing. This is a sport that's not for the faint of heart. It definately takes endurance and is accompanied by high risk ... risking your professional reputation with ever referral you pass. In addition, there are plenty of surprises ... like when your referral partners announces that she is moving to Texas ... from Pennsylvania! You've got to be prepared for the inevitable hill that's around the corner in order for your referral marketing campaign to push forward and not get bogged down in an unsuspecting mud hole.

So, put on your referral helmet, gloves, and carry your camel back (water sack) ... if you're in a referral marketing campaign, you're in for the long haul. If you want to practice your skills, check out one organization that specializes in referral marketing, Referral Institute.