Sometimes I marvel at the folks who have no problem (in fact they actually seem to enjoy) networking and chatting to people they don't know.

Or they're quite happy phoning up their contacts just to see how things are going.

My toes are curling right now just at the thought of it.

But there's no doubt it works. Follow-up and keeping in touch is one of the “big rocks” I mentioned yesterday that make a huge difference to your success at winning clients.

But for many of us, the thought of picking up the phone or even emailing to check in with people is a huge challenge.

What do I say that won't come across as awkward? What if they think I'm just trying to sell something to them?

That's why email marketing is a godsend to us painfully shy people.

I might feel uncomfortable calling someone up or even emailing personally. But I'm quite happy to think of something I think my subscribers would find useful and mailing it out.

And then what happens is quite a few reply. We get into discussions.

I feel good about sending something useful, and the discussions happen naturally. No awkwardness. No feeling like I'm a pushy sales guy.

Now I know that really I ought to get my mindset fixed and learn to be less shy. But frankly, it's easier and quicker for me to use email marketing instead. 

Maybe one day I'll become Mr Assertive. But for now I'm happy being me and using email marketing instead.

If you're a bit like me, it might work for you too. 

Stay strong.