You know that feeling you get in your gut when you’re talking to a prospective client who sounds like they would be a great fit, but something just doesn’t feel right? Or when you’re talking to a prospect who doesn’t “fit” on paper, but you know in your gut they would be a great client? Those are your Instincts.

The question is, do you pay attention to your instincts? Do you Listen to them?

Merriam-Webster defines “instinct” as 1: a natural or inherent aptitude, impulse, or capacity 2 a: a largely inheritable and unalterable tendency of an organism to make a complex and specific response to environmental stimuli without involving reason b: behavior that is mediated by reactions below the conscious level.

Our instincts regarding Business start developing as soon as we begin making decisions regarding our businesses. We instinctively learn to recognize what constitutes a good client who fits our business as well as what constitutes a bad client who doesn’t fit our business. We develop these instincts regarding possible clients, JV partners and hopefully, regarding all of the other aspects of our business. We learn from experience, so hopefully, we make decisions based on our instincts … what we learn inherently due to our experience – good and bad, because our instincts can be very valuable when making business decisions.

The next time you speak with a prospective client who looks good on paper, but something just doesn’t “feel” right, or you speak with someone who sounds like they might not be the best fit for you because they don’t meet your criteria – but there’s that little niggling in the pit of your stomach, something that says “go for it!” or “Whoa back off, this isn’t a good choice!” listen to your gut.

Whatever the decision – prospects, JV partners, client offerings, programs and anything else related to doing business, listen to your gut. Listen to what years of experience are telling you about the situation, because those are your instincts speaking to you, and they are an important part of doing business.

Remember … trusting your instincts is an important part of doing business and achieving success. So listen to what they might be telling you!