On a trip to Hong Kong while strolling the streets I was confronted multiple times by extremely aggressive tailors.

They were shouting out the kind of clothes they would make for me and thrusting their business cards in my face.

At first, I politely said ‘No thank you’ which I quickly learned did not end the intrusion and may have actually encouraged them.

I found their methods harassing. I can’t imagine anyone who would want to do business with someone who uses that kind of approach.

Now don’t get me wrong, I doubt very seriously you’re as aggressive as the tailors in Hong Kong but you may be doing some things that are alienating people. Here are three to think about.

1. Don’t Push Your Business Card on People

When you meet people at a networking event, a trade show, or a conference you’re always welcome to ask them for their business card. But please don’t assume they want yours.

As a general rule I don’t give my business card unless I’m asked for it. When you’re clear about what you do and can clearly communicate it, people will know if it is appealing for them or not.

2. Don’t Add People to Your Email List Without their Permission

I always think that everyone already knows this one but surprisingly I still turn up on people’s lists that I have not personally requested. This is spam and trust me, it’s not appreciated.

It’s your job to make it easy to understand the value of the type of information your newsletter provides and the benefits of subscribing. Then it’s up to each individual person to decide whether or not to subscribe. If you don’t have an newsletter, be sure to read my post, 7 Reasons to Offer a Value Packed Newsletter.

3. Don’t Talk More Than You Listen

It may seem counter-intuitive not to talk more than you listen when you’re marketing your business but it’s not.

If you’re truly interested in connecting with people, and discovering more about them and whether or not you might be able to help them, then you’ll find yourself asking questions and using your ears more than your mouth.

To effectively market your business without being pushy be sure to be interested, get permission to stay in contact, and listen more than you talk. For more about your listening, read my post, How to Radically Improve Your Listening Skills and Why It Matters.

It’s actually more fun (and easier) than trying to be interesting, talking a lot, and pushing your information on people.

Pay attention to how you interact with people and make sure that you’re interacting and not being intrusive. The result will be a much more profitable business.

© Stephanie Ward

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What kinds of marketing tactics rub you the wrong way? Share your thoughts on this topic below in the comments section. I respond to every single comment.