What is your intent?

I am big fan of David Lakhani, he is so right when he explains the difference between manipulation and persuasion.

Recently I had a lead from a social network I joined and somehow this became obvious, let me explain:

We experience a slow business period so any person asking for a possible business project is taken serious, so I went curious and full of hope. The brand was known somehow, with a respectable website and many countries on board.

The first question made me alert, it was about the website and if I am ready to buy the products visible in nice white boxes. You can imagine my impression, this technique reminded me of an old trick of selling certain chemicals showing off with a pump that can be used in the garden.

You are tempted by the box, ask how much is and there you go. My response was a question, why did he choose me for this? I also asked if he read my profile and my wants and interests, however he insisted in the big opportunity to invest in his products.

I guess this a normal risk in any blind date, to be forced into something when you are up to a different path. What is my learning? Well, curiosity will not kill you, sometimes you waste your time.

Back to David, always check for intent, because this is what will make a difference, when somebody is genuinely interested in you and your business would declare his intent and be curios on your needs and wants.

Lately this manipulators or hard sellers hit the road and come in affected economies to fish some desperate pray.

I hope this helps,