How do you answer, "What do you do?"

Since like a lot of people, I want to be all things to all people (a big no-no). I've always dreaded those four little words. With so many possibilities, it was also tough to break it down into what Laura Allen calls a 15 Second Pitch.

The other day I came across an article by Certified Guerrilla Marketing Coach, Avi Frier with those four little words, What do you do? For some reason, his logic resonated with me and really gave me some clarity. Answering I am a doctor, lawyer or Indian chief, is not what you were asked. You're not telling people what you do!

I realized this is a great way to make yourself focus on what you provide. It gives you the opportunity to more clearly target different audiences, skills and services you want to offer. And, once you determine how you want to reply to "what do you do" or develop your elevator pitch...you'll have the answer for both.

Plus, as I mentioned in Is your business card's back side naked?, once you have your statement defined, you can include it on the back of your cards, making different cards for different potential clients. It will reinforce your initial conversation and ideally, make you stand apart from your peers.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Market Yourself As A Triple Threat and Help Make A Difference...

As you know, in the entertainment world, a triple threat is someone who can act, sing AND dance, making them that much more desirable to cast. If you aren't already providing your services or products as silent auction items, raffle prizes or gift bag inserts to non-profit events, it's something to think about. Consider how the organization, your potential clients, and you, all benefit from this gracious gesture, which by the way...is tax-deductible. Besides exposure, you'll feel good too!

1. The Non-Profit.

First and foremost, with no out of pocket expense, the non-profit benefits the auction bids and raffle purchases. The more desirable the "package" you put together, the more money you help raise.

2. For Event Guests and Participants (potential clients)

Many years ago I was at a black tie event where a dentist offered a series of teeth cleanings for the silent auction which has always stuck in my head. At the time, I thought it was, to say the least, a rather odd prize. However, if you were the winner, you got to write a check supporting the organization (again tax-deductible) for services you would be spending money on anyway.

Depending on your profession, for the gift bags or other give-aways, you can provide samples, brochures, or a card with a "special offer" for attendees. If you work on commission, why not offer a gift for a certain number of referrals provided or take a business card ad in the event journal?

3. For You

By offering his services, the dentist created good will and got his name in front of an upscale crowd who were potential patients. In addition to your favorite causes and trade groups (most have a charitable arm or non-profit they sponsor), another way to promote yourself is to think about your ideal client and what events or organizations they are involved with, both professionally and socially. Don't just go for the obvious, since you want to stand apart from the crowd! Remember, it's not just about the person who wins your donation, but the potential clients who need and can afford your services or products.

Andi, if it means thinking out-of-the-box, regardless of your profession, you do have something to offer!!! Now get out there....and help make a difference!

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Free Trade Magazine Subscriptions & Technical Document Downloads

Having recently discovered www.tradepub.com , I wanted to share it with you and suggest you pass it along to your clients and colleagues. Just browse through their extensive list of free business and trade magazines, white papers, downloads and podcasts. Choose from titles that suit your skills and interests including topics relating to management, marketing, operations, sales, and technology. This is absolutely free to all professionals who qualify, so make sure to fill out the application forms completely. It's also a great way to learn about other industries you might like to pursue and market to.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Is bartering an option for you?

Bartering is an excellent way to get new clients (paying referrals) and the services/products you need for your business (or pleasure) without spending out of pocket cash. The following list shows an example of professions and industries you may never have thought of, that can provide bartering. http://www.barterconsultants.com/products_services.cfm

It might just be worth determining what you can offer professionally, not just for business services but for that massage or trip all your hard work deserves! And if your hobbies or other skills you excel at fall into a category, then put them to work for you too!

You can barter through your own networks and contacts or join any number of services. Here is a link to some national resources you can start with. http://vipbarter.com/links.shtml.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Is your business card's back side naked?

Now that I have your attention... while re-designing my card, I decided to put my phone and fax numbers on the back lower right side. Staring at the card, it occurred to me, instinctively, most people will automatically turn a card over to look for the phone number. So take advantage of that available "ad space" by including something unique to make a personalized and more memorable first impression!

By offering something reflective of you, your profession or clientele, you can simply set yourself apart from your peers, starting with your card. Below are some suggestions to get your wheels spinning. The possibilities are endless....

Write a personable sentence about what you specialize in or why you are different than everyone else with your title (in addition to the fact you are writing this sentence). Explain what you do, provide or who you're target is, because they may know someone specifically looking for your assistance.

Double your exposure and get in front of ideal clients whose paths you might not otherwise cross by partnering with a (reputable) complimentary business or service that will benefit both of your clients. Depending on your profession and personal style, you can present each other as an introduction, a recommendation, a "thought this might interest you" or simply print one business on each side and when you hand out the card, mention this is a company you work with that will benefit them.

What are you offering that makes you different than everyone else with your title? What will motivate people to follow up with you even if just out of curiosity? Is there some related group, article, complimentary information you can supply or include links that might be useful?

Who doesn't love a little something extra? Can you provide an incentive to contact you? To receive articles/tips/facts etc. about XYZ, sign up at.... What about a "limited-time" offer or discount when you purchase a series of your services or sessions. A give-away etc? Referral discount? or something for free if they contact you?

Provide different offers to targeted groups. It's an interesting way to see who responds to what.Make up cards for specific networking events,conferences, trade shows, non-profit events etc. For example: Members of XYZ, we are pleased to offer a special ..... XYZ Event attendees, enjoy a ...............For non-profit events, you might consider offering to donate xx% of their first purchase or project with you to theorganization.

www.printsmadeeasy.com offers quantities as small as 20! For an additional $8.00 to make this double-sided card, how can you not take advantage of this opportunity to make yourself shine ??

Think about it, if you are willing to give a little added-value upfront, chances are, you're the kind of person people will want to work with! Wouldn't you want to work with you?

I hope you found these suggestions Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com