“Change before you have to.” Jack Welch (1935- ) Businessman A wise friend of mine told me once that all good things last two years. It sounds a bit cynical, but I think what he meant was that there is a life cycle to all things including products, jobs, companies, and ideas. Implied in his…
Thank You. I cannot think of a more powerful phrase that is never said enough to our customers: thank you. And, it is so easy do. Here are a few ways to tell your customers thanks: 1. Call them. Yes, you will get a voicemail, but go ahead and leave a message. Say something like,…
As a negotiation lecturer and corporate trainer, I am often asked about “other cultures” and how we should accommodate the “differences” in negotiation style when dealing with Japan, China, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Arab countries. While it is true that each country has its unique issues in negotiation, I have always answered this question…
For you “brick and mortar types”, the sign on the front of your building or store is the first impression you make with your customers. Make sure that is a positive one by adhering to the following rules: Make sure that the name on your sign is the name of your business. I went into…
Unfortunately, some people will resort to “dirty tricks” in an effort get what they want in a negotiation. Below are a few examples of common tricks, along with some methods on how you can defend yourself, if not turn it back on them. One aggressive technique is the use of threats in a negotiation. Often…
Also known as word-of-mouth marketing, viral marketing is a marketing technique that depends on people passing along a marketing message to others. This typically refers to the forwarding of advertising or promotional messages through email. In fact, the best and earliest example of viral marketing on the internet is the wildly successful email tool known…
1. Use plain English to describe why you are sending your email. Don’t be devious or deceptive. 2. Subject lines should not mislead or unnecessarily tease. Be truthful. 3. Do not buy or rent email lists; few list makers legitimately follow opt-in practices. 4. Don’t sell your own lists. They opted-in to your website not…
Logos tell a story about your brand. Potential customers look for a logo to tell them about the value your business will deliver. More than a first impression, a logo describes what might be. For the repeat customer, a logo talks about your firm’s consistency and commitment, while reassuring the customer that buying your product…
It is sales legend that it costs far less money to keep an existing customer than it does to find a new one. Customers that have bought from you in the past are likely to buy again and represent your best leads. Thus, staying in touch with these folks is a must do for any…
Conferences, Trade Shows, and Conventions are a great time to brand yourself and your company with your name tag. The last thing you want to use is one of those peel and stick labels, which often fall off in a matter of minutes. Instead, take the time to get a preprinted name badge, which is…