by Diana Long
http://www.DianaLong.com
©
2008
Yes, it's true. The economy is changing. It can be
a scary time, or a time to "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" and
take care of business. I see business owners fretting, complaining, and getting
stressed out with all the news and "evidence" of a shaky economy. I
see business owners getting stuck in a rut, doing the same strategies over and
over again, hoping for better results, and disappointed they are NOT getting the
results they want.
Einstein said, "The definition of
insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, and then expecting a different
result." Could this be you? Are you stuck in a rut with how you do business?
It's pretty common.
One of the quickest and easiest ways
to attract new prospects to do business with you is to give them an opportunity
to "sample" your product or service. Baskin Robbins Ice Cream store
knew this and offered free samples of ice cream with their now-famous pink spoon.
I have vivid memories of myself at age 10 going over to the Baskin Robbins store
after my weekly ballet class. Before I chose my flavor of ice cream, I asked for
a sample and, of course, got a pink spoonful of some delicious new flavor. Baskin
Robbins knew they "had" a customer and created a bond with me as a repeat
and loyal customer for YEARS! The bottom line here for you as a business owner
in a challenging economy is to innovate and do things differently to increase
your money flow.
3 Quick Tips to "Pink Spoon Your Business"
1.
Direct Mail - Mail out a postcard with a special incentive offer (a free session,
ticket to an event, invitation to a free teleseminar, or coupon for a mini product).
2.
Presentation - Giving free or low cost presentations that give your prospects
great value is an awesome way to increase awareness and interest in your services.
(Important - DON'T HARD SELL.) People do business with people they know, like,
and trust. Let them get to know you first.
3. Free Needs
Analysis/Discovery Session - Offer a Call-In Day to your list. You can let them
know about it in your online or mailed newsletter (if you don't have your own
newsletter that makes you money, then we need to talk!). On your Call-In Day,
have new prospects tell you what their needs are before you rush in to sell them
your solutions. LISTEN to your prospects and deliver real value.
