5 Marketing Tips Inspired by My Dog

Alright, I admit it! Somehow, everything comes back to my delightful dog, Moxie. But, in their pure simplicity, the following tips make perfect sense even in human terms. Our pets, (cats too) are called our best friends for many reasons, including what we learn from them.

1. Never Underestimate the Power of a Treat! Human "treats" can range from meetings over coffee, a meal or drinks to yummy incentives, give-aways and appreciation gifts. I recently had, what turned into a lovely 3 hour lunch with a potential client; a productive, uninterrupted and much more pleasant experience than sitting in a fluorescent lit conference room.

Instead of giving away another generic promotional item at your next trade show, seminar or event, try a little morning or midday "treat", it will go a long way. Plus, people tend to gravitate and linger around food, making for continuing conversation. While you can literally get your logo imprinted on cookies and chocolates request details, or order award winning cookies, brownies, chocolate pretzels and gift baskets from our friends at Geoff & Drews, if you are on a limited budget, individually package several cookies, candies (wouldn't you smile if you got some Tootsie Rolls?) or mini muffins (that you purchase or make yourself if you're so inclined) and include your card or a special offer. It's so simple and will be appreciated. And remember, it's all in the presentation, so visit Nashville Wraps for some great ideas, great prices and low minimums.

These days, you can send clients every imaginable food item or a gift certificate to Restaurant.com to both show your appreciation and offer as a referral incentive.

2. Creating That Special Bond, humanly known as relationship building. While I won't bore you with our story, or my love letter to Moxie, did you ever notice sometimes it's easier to talk to someone you just meet and click with, than a friend's spouse you've known forever? If you're really lucky, when you meet a prospective client, there's a natural connection of some kind to build on. These are the people to develop a relationship with first, since they will most likely be open to networking and providing new contacts. I understand in some industries the courting process can take months (I'm in the middle of one of those projects right now). Sometimes it pays off, and sometimes not, which brings us to Moxie's expertise....

3. Patience... is patience! I know I am very lucky, and Moxie's patience never ceases to amaze me. I am trying to follow his lead. His laid back determination sitting and waiting, waiting, waiting, for that additional piece of food he knows I will eventually break down and give him after I've said no more. No hard-sell there. Just patience. Forget that adorable little face is staring at me the whole time! And when he very nicely waits, while I repeatedly get side-tracked after telling him we are going to do something. So what does this have to do with us??? Once we've pitched, submitted, invited, met with, etc. etc. we wait, and wait and wait..... even now, I am trying to be more patient while I "wait" on four exciting potential projects! A lot of times people get so side-tracked and overwhelmed and we have to remember not to take it personally (although I always do). Since I prefer the kinder gentler approach, I hate to repeatedly "bother" people, and yet more often than not, when I finally do call or email yet again... I am received with appreciation for following up or an apology. So yes, sometimes no news is good news and "good things come to those that wait". Regardless, you have to do what makes you comfortable.

4. Loyalty. Nothing beats the loyalty our beloved furry friends shower us with, but we've earned it. We created the bond, given the treats and taken good care of them which is rewarded with their loyalty. Have you given your clients reason to be loyal? Have you taken good care of them? Shown them you understand and fulfilled their needs? Shown them appreciation? All very simple, but it's the little things.... Now, does anyone have any thoughts about getting them to give us unconditional love too?

5. Companionship. Moxie wanted me to mention, studies have proven pets in the workplace create a very positive environment leading to more productivity, less absenteeism, less stress etc. They make the best colleagues (especially if you work solo), inspire, motivate, make you take fun breaks (alien to non-smokers), you don't mind working longer and best of all, they aren't big on office politics!

I hope you found this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal. Do not hesitate to contact me for personalized recommendations!

To be continued...what I learned from my cat, Precious. Hmmmm......

Warmly,
Andi (and Moxie)

Warmly,
Andi

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

What 's In It For Them? Client Referral Motivators.

While we all agree, your delightful personality, expertise and superior services/products should be enough to get your clients calling everyone they know, like it or not...a little extra incentive (what's in it for me) goes a long way. Of course, it depends on what you do, what is appropriate and what is reflective of you and your clients.

Referral "bonuses" are not realistic for everyone, but sending a happy client even a little thank you or thinking of you gift (a sweet afternoon treat?) or interesting article with a handwritten note, is a small gesture that becomes it's own motivator and your client will certainly talk about you! And, if you're comfortable and it's appropriate, include a referral request in your note.

Can you offer an informational seminar or mini event to a current client(s) who agrees to bring xx number of potential clients? Partner with a complimentary or "fun" service to make it more enjoyable and have them do the same with their clients, doubling your possibilities.

If you are a coach, consultant, dentist, masseuse, etc., and offer series of sessions, are you willing to offer a discount? Your current client gets a break on their continuing services, and you getting new clients, paying full price. Bring in one new client and receive 10% off your next session/service. You could give 20% for two new clients, 30% for three etc. or stop at 30%. Or, request three referrals and offer a complimentary session or service. Similar to the buy 9 cups of coffee and the 10th is free.

If you don't have services or products you can provide, or don't want to extend a discount, what about offering a "free lunch"? Make it as simple or creative as you like. One new client referral receives a "free lunch", three receive a "free dinner". While there are endless types of gift certificates you can provide, Restaurant.com offers inexpensive dining certificates to great local restaurants nationwide valued at $25., $50., $75., $100. and up. A $25. gift certificate is $10. Depending on the discounts offered when you sign up, you can get them for $4. each. An impressive "free $100 dinner" would only cost $16! They also have merchant partners so you can send cookies as that afternoon treat, wine, flowers, etc. Think about what other gift cards are reflective of you and your clients? It's not even how much you spend, include a clever note... it's about making a lasting impression.

To really motivate your clients, in addition to keeping referral bonuses in your business arsenal, create a contest, promotion or limited time offer. This month, we are offering......., or For a limited time.... etc. If you find this works with your current clients, you might want to consider coming up with different incentives to keep them motivated and providing you, with new business!

I hope you found 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