The Big Mistake I Only Made Once (Don’t Let It Be You!)
Hey friend lemme share a real-life moment that still makes me cringe when I think about it. Total facepalm situation. But it turned into one of the most valuable business lessons I ever learned. The kinda mistake you only make once. And I made it… so you don’t have to.
Let’s rewind…
I’d been in business for about a year when I attended a local networking event. You know the kind name tags, awkward handshakes, and that nervous energy buzzing around the room. But this one was extra special.
Because the guest speaker? MAJOR DEAL.
We’re talking about a real-deal marketing icon. Someone whose strategies I’d stalked online, whose name I scribbled in notebooks with stars and underlines. This guy lived right here in my town who knew?!
So I went, took notes, absorbed the wisdom… and at the end of the event, fate decided to sprinkle a little magic.
I walked out to my car, and who’s parked RIGHT next to me?
Yup. Him.
We started chatting. I told him what I did. And then BAM he asked:
“Do you have a business card?”
:::Cue full-on panic mode:::
I dove into my purse. Nada. Started throwing things in the car. Lip balm. Receipts. Crumpled tissues. I swear I almost pulled out a shoe.
No card.
Rookie Move
This was a major “smack-my-own-forehead” moment. I usually always had business cards on me. But somehow, on the day that actually mattered… nope. Not one.
Let me be clear this kind of mistake could’ve cost me BIG.
But lucky for me (and thanks to a few gentle nudges and some serious persistence on my part), I eventually reconnected with him. It took months of social media stalking, a couple of emails through his assistant, and some divine patience…
But guess what?
He became a client. Not just any client one of my biggest clients for over two years.
Lesson Learned? Never Leave Home Without It.
If you’re building a senior concierge business, or any kind of personal service-based brand, connections MATTER. A lot.
So here’s your assignment this week:
1. Keep Business Cards Everywhere
And I mean everywhere.
Your purse
Your glove box
Your gym bag
Your laptop case
Heck stick one inside your phone case if you have to!
Because opportunities to get new clients don’t just happen at fancy events. They happen when you’re standing in line at Starbucks. At the dry cleaner. Picking up kids. Walking the dog.
People need your help. They need your services. But if you can’t hand them a card when the moment is hot? You might miss out.
Need help figuring out how to talk about what you do when the moment strikes? Read this: How to Talk About What You Do in Your Concierge Business it’ll help you get clear and confident in everyday conversations.
2. Always Be Talking About What You Do
Yep, this is your permission slip to share your magic everywhere you go.
Standing in line? Talk about your business.
Getting gas? Chat up the person across the pump.
Waiting at the dentist? Mention the seniors you help stay independent.
People LOVE to know that someone out there is helping their parents, their neighbors, their friends stay safe, supported, and independent at home.
And don’t worry about being pushy. When you’re passionate about what you do, you’re just… sharing your heart.
Want even more tips on getting visible in your community? Don’t miss this one: 4 Ways to Use Networking to Grow Your Business3. Remember: Small Things Make a Big Impact
One little slip-up (like forgetting a card) can create a huge lesson. But so can small consistent habits like having your card ready or knowing your pitch.
I’ve had clients ask me before:
“Kelly, what’s the real secret to getting more clients in a personal concierge business?”
And honestly? It’s not always a fancy funnel or paid ads.
Sometimes it’s just being prepared. Having confidence. Speaking up. Following up.
And yes, being someone they remember when they need help for Mom, Dad, or their aging neighbor.
Want a deeper dive on how to turn conversations into paying clients? Read this blog next: Want More Referrals? Here’s How
It’s Not About Perfection It’s About Progress
Listen, we’ve all had moments where we felt like we dropped the ball. But the people who build successful businesses?
They learn fast.
They pick up the ball again, brush off the dust, and keep moving.
So this is your friendly reminder from someone who’s been there:
Be ready
Be bold
And always, always carry a card.
Because you never know when a chance meeting in a parking lot could turn into a multi-year, high-paying client.
Final Word: If you’re serious about how to get clients for a senior concierge business, start with the basics. Be ready to connect. Speak confidently. Build trust one conversation at a time. Then let those conversations turn into contracts.
Got a “big mistake” moment you learned from in your business? I’d love to hear it.
Tell me your story and let’s grow through it together.
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