Walk into any business on a rainy day and, for the most part, they are empty. Everyone is relaxed. You get great service and lots of attention. Nobody seems to be really busy, which seems like a perfect time to cold call. The owner is inside. Business is slow. They really have nothing to do but talk to you. Chances are you will be the only salesperson walking through the door today. Why not?

I realized this early in my sales career. When you’re out there every day vying for the attention of a buyer or business owner, you’re looking for ways to stand out. I noticed that all of my counterparts were in their little cubicles doing errands, making phone calls, and scheduling appointments for tomorrow when it wasn’t going to rain.

So I grabbed an umbrella and hit the road. It was incredible. I very rarely walked into a business where I couldn’t talk to a decision maker. I mean, think about it. I just completely differentiated myself from everyone. I am the one who will go out in the rain, get my feet wet and work a little harder for the business. This says a lot about someone you are trying to do business with. Who wants to give their money to someone who only wants to work when it’s nice and sunny? Get it?

I went to a business networking meeting this morning and the attendance was pretty poor. This is a weekly meeting that people pay to get referrals to earn more money. But it was raining. It was raining HARD. Apparently, that was enough to keep at least 50% of regular attendees from venturing out. It just seemed like another chance.

Do you know what a rainmaker is? Dictionary.com says that a rainmaker is “One who is known to achieve excellent results in a profession or field, such as business or politics.” Are you? What do you do when it rains? Are you one of those people who would have skipped the meeting? Do you sit in your office and try to call people on the phone? Are you doing your expense report? Stop.

Try it just once. You will surprise with the results. Be a rainmaker. The next time it rains, put on your best suit. Give yourself a little encouragement, grab your umbrella and go outside. Grab plenty of business cards and get ready. I bet you win a little money.