I’ve heard it takes 3 to 4 years to fully get to know someone. If that’s true, it means that a lot of people you “know” you’re really just starting to get to know.
And you should give it time.
As you get to know them (better), and they get to know you, your relationship can grow from new acquaintances to solid business connections, referral partners, and friends. And that might take awhile.
True, sometimes you hit it off immediately. The circumstances are right, the chemistry is right, and while it will probably take time to fully know each other, you can tell there’s something there and it’s worth it.
But that doesn’t happen often.
Which means we shouldn’t be so quick to judge someone, or make up our minds as to where they might fit into our life.
What do you do while you’re giving things time to develop? Asking about their business or family. Sending them information about things they might need or want. Asking if they need help with anything. Inviting them to meet for coffee. Or just staying in touch.
And not expecting them to do the same for you.
Not everyone will reciprocate. You might reach out often, promote their business or cause, offer to introduce them to someone they should know, or send them a boatload of goodies, and they might do none of that for you.
That doesn’t mean you can’t have a relationship.
Keep the fires burning, or at least keep them from going out. One day, they might need your help with something, or reflect on how much you’ve done for them already, and realize how much you mean to them.
And this could be the start of your “romance”.
But don’t expect (or demand) more from them. Let the relationship develop naturally.
If the day comes when you realize that things aren’t going anywhere—they don’t return your calls or respond to your email, they don’t show appreciation for anything you’ve done, back off. Give them less time and attention.
But don’t shut the door.
Keep them on your list of people you stay in touch with (via email, predominately), and reserve personal time for other folks who have shown you they want you in their life.
You might hear from them eventually. The time might finally be right for them, which means it’s also right for you
If not, that’s okay. There are plenty of other fish in the sea.
The Attorney Marketing Formula
