The phone hardly rings anymore, your web traffic counter stays unchanged unless “you” visit your own site, and that queasy feeling in the pit of your stomach doesn’t go away when you shut down the computer for the night. If these symptoms sound familiar, take solace in knowing you’re not alone: Operating in lean times is no fun, that’s for certain, and you certainly don’t have to let lean times beat you down. One simple trick is to simply “Talk to Your Clients.” Many business have changed, but the “80/20 rule” still applies. Eighty percent of your business comes from 20 percent of your clients. Your best prospects for new work are with the clients you already have. And that is something to feel positive about. Call up your clients and let them know about that new Multi-Auto homeowner list that Insurance companies are raving about. Or let them know your direct mail campaigns are working well because they are doing something different then everyone else. Shoot them a quick email about the latest and greatest Targeted Consumer Mailing Lists. Make a habit for the new year of calling up your clients and ask what other projects might be on the back burner or what new projects may be coming up. Ask questions, offer helpful insights, and make sure to relay your availability. Give them your cell phone #; give them an additional email so they feel you are always going to be there for them. In these uncertain times we all feel better if we know our contacts are going to be there even if the going gets tough. Make sure you don’t do the “hard sell” just a “call me when you’re ready.” If you have the time, pay your clients a personal visit. Even in our world of e-mail and virtual white boards, an in person visit remains the most powerful relationship builder you’ll find. Happy selling!
Sincerely,
Kirk McCormick
402-932-7654