ROI – Business Networking

What you see is what you get!  How many times do we apply this little statement to things we do or think?  Yet when it comes to Business Networking, do you really know what you are getting out of your networking efforts?  It’s not all about $$/cents.

A few of Peggy’s Pointers on networking could net really great results:

• Have clear cut goals for your networking activities.
• Set aside time to develop the connections you make at events so that they become relationships, not just someone on a list of people you know.
• Work on your 30-second commercial so that others will know exactly what you do and how they might help you.
• Create a core of strategic partners in synergistic fields that can be your “go-to” person when you need to make referrals.
• Be willing to serve others.  Networking is about giving first and the rewards will come back to you.
• Be professional at all times.  Remember the saying that people make up their minds about you within the first 5 minutes after an introduction.  Make sure you dress the part and act the part of whatever it is that you do for a living.
• Be attentive and listen for opportunities.
• Remember networking events are the place to make connections, not sell your products and services.

Peggy P. Edge (c) 2013

Peggy’s Pointers on Business: What is Your Consistency Level?

Consistency –  “ The achievement of a level of performance that does not vary greatly in quality over time.”

Think about professional athletes – most of them are not superstars like Michael Jordan but they achieve their professional status by performing at a high level of consistently over and over.

How consistent are you at what you do best?  When you figure this out, it will be “your Edge over your competition.  Therefore, examine your successes; create an action plan to do more of this; then, go for it!

Peggy P. Edge © 2013

Peggy’s Pointers on Sales – Asking Clients for Advice

When was the last time you ask one of your clients for his wisdom or knowledge?

Having been in professional sales for 30+ years, I have seen my share of “hot-shot salesmen” who are constantly in sales mode.  They drive up and down the street with one thing in mind…sell something to someone at all costs.

However, a really good salesman knows that they have to look and act like they don’t really need a sale.  How can they do this?

* Ask your client for his wisdom or knowledge.

* Ask…what has been your experience with xyz?

* Ask…how has this helped you profit?

* Ask…how have you successfully used …….?

Remember these are not necessarily questions about your products and services but about life experiences, hobbies, etc.  Use probing questions to get to know your client and how they think.

A sale is not about exchanging goods and services for dollars but it is about building a relationship…creating partners.  When you do this you will have established yourself as a professional in the eyes of your client.

Peggy P. Edge (c) 2013