Archive for the ‘Sales & Networking’ Category

What does your business do?

What do you say when someone asks you what your business does. Accounting? Plumbing? Plastic surgery? Maybe even underwater basket weaving. All of these answers are incorrect, because like telling people how your business is doing, the right answer can make all the difference in finding new clients. While you may very well be an accounting firm, chances are that there is something that really sets you apart from other accounting firms. Perhaps you specialize in accounting for small businesses, accounting for restaurants, or even accounting for businesses that plan on becoming a public company. What ever the case, you need to make it clear specifically what you do. For example, at Wildfire Marketing Group, we specialize in helping small companies compete with the bigger companies and win. So the next time someone asks, tell...

How to get a testimonial

When you’ve left a client really happy with your service, do you simply wait around hoping that they offer a testimonial or do you actively seek one? The latter should be the case, and there is an easy, pain free way to ensure that you get it. Rather than just asking your client to write a testimonial for you, write it for them. Actually, what you want to do is write three versions. The first will be a little over the top, another will not really say much for you, and the last one will be a reasonable and well written testimonial. Ninety-nine times out of a hundred, they will toss the one that’s over the top and the one that’s not really saying much, leaving you with the middle of the road, more reasonable...

What are your business cards saying about your business?

What kind of reaction do your prospects have when you hand them a business card? Do they appear genuinely impressed, or do they appear to be holding back laughter? If the latter is the case, then perhaps it’s time for an upgrade. Maybe when you first started your business you couldn’t afford to shell out the money for professionally designed and printed business cards, or perhaps you didn’t see the value in it. The fact of the matter is that a professionally designed business card will set you apart from your competition, and when you go the extra mile and have them professionally printed you will really make an outstanding impression. Think 2-sided, full color business cards on a nice heavy 16pt stock (you can literally cut cheese with this) with a high gloss UV...

Thank you!

You don’t hear that very often lately. The simple words “thank you” can really set you apart from your competitors. Even better is a hand written letter. Think of how you would feel if you received a thank you letter in the mail a day or two after meeting with a sales rep. They would certainly stand out in your mind, and if you truly needed what they were offering, chances are they would be the one to earn your business. Your prospects will feel the same way. The next time you meet with a prospect, be sure to follow up with a hand written thank you note. It wouldn’t hurt to send your existing clients one from time to time as well. Make a habit of this and you will be well on your...

Getting the most from your next networking event

If you’re like most people then you’ve probably been to a few networking events and weren’t really sure what to do. Maybe you felt awkward introducing yourself or didn’t know how long to talk to each person. The good news is that these are all pretty common for the majority of people. The better news is that it’s relatively easy to learn how to make the most of your next networking event. Be prepared – Have enough business cards in an easily accessible place. Then, have a “back-up” stack of cards in another pocket in case you run out. You should also bring a small notebook that fits in your pocket along with two pens. Dress appropriately ? Arrive underdressed and you usually won’t be taken seriously, overdress and you may be seen as pretentious....

Mind your manners and improve your business

When we were little kids most of us were taught to say thank you, but as we grew older it somehow became less important for some of us. What many of us fail to realize however, is that this simple act of gratitude can help to make us more successful by separating us from the majority of other people. So then next time a prospect gives you the opportunity to earn their business follow it up with a personally written thank you card or when a client places an order, include something free at no additional charge to them. You could even make a charitable donation on behalf of one of your major clients. The possibilities are limited only by your creativity. You’ll be doing the right thing and improving your business at the same...