Final answer:
Contractors should build personal and business relationships with people in customer organizations. Developing organizational savvy and maintaining regular contact with contacts are key strategies to improve professional opportunities and success.
Step-by-step explanation:
Building relationships with people in customer organizations on a personal and business level is important for contractors. By getting to know individuals within the organizations, contractors can establish trust and rapport, which can lead to better collaboration, opportunities for referrals and recommendations, and increased chances of securing contracts. For example, contractors can engage in casual conversations about topics like parenting, pets, or sports to initiate connections and demonstrate that they have a life beyond work.
Developing organizational savvy is also essential for contractors. They need to understand the dynamics, politics, and priorities of the customer organization, as well as how to navigate them effectively to achieve their goals. By learning more about the organization, contractors can gain insights into the decision-making processes, anticipate potential questions or concerns, and align their services with the organization's needs and culture.
Additionally, maintaining regular contact with contacts within customer organizations is crucial. By staying in touch, contractors can provide valuable information, invitations to events, or other forms of support, which helps strengthen relationships and keeps contractors top of mind when opportunities arise. Being known as someone who provides value and maintains genuine connections with people in customer organizations can significantly enhance a contractor's professional reputation and increase their chances of success.