Chances are you’ve heard the term “booty call” — it’s essentially calling someone (the booty call) to engage in sex outside a relationship:
- phone rings later at night
- no public acknowledgement of a relationship, except maybe friendship
- and when they choose to enter into a relationship, it’s with someone else
Have you ever felt like a business booty call? Maybe you’re even feeling like one now:
- you’re called/emailed for free advice
- you’re not publicly acknowledged for the great advice you give
- and when they choose to invest in a relationship, it’s with someone else
If you’re not enjoying the experience as much as your “friend”, it’s time to step back and redesign the relationship:
- think about what you want from the relationship and communicate that to your friend
- set boundaries around your contacts so you’re not the one always giving
- be ready to move on if that’s what’s best for you
And if you find yourself in this position often, ask yourself why:
- Do you value yourself, your business and what you have to offer?
- Do you have products, programs and services available or is “free” the only way you can share your expertise?
- Do you *need* to be liked by everyone and believe giving away your info is the way to do it?
If any of these “why’s” resonate with you, take some time to:
- write down all the things which make you and your business special and unique
- read through client testimonials and catch yourself smiling at the words and knowing you’re the reason
- call and chat with someone who adores you. . .just for being you
Always remember, it’s your business and you choose — whether passively or proactively — how it will be.
If you’ve ever been/felt like a “business booty call”, what’d you do to change the relationship?