Proactively cultivating relationships is often an afterthought. We are just too busy trying to get through the workload directly in front of us. And, relationships are not what we DO in our businesses, right? Most firms are not in the “relationship business.” You are in the [INSERT your core offering] business. Simply spoken: We need sales, not more friends! STOP RIGHT … [Read more...]
People Do Business With You…But Why?
Why do people do business with you? Is it because of WHAT you do or is it because of WHY you do it? According to author and thought leader Simon Sinek, people buy the “why.” Over the past few weeks I’ve been asking clients and other professionals their “why.” Many times it doesn’t seem clearly defined. I do believe the “why” is critically important in business, and if … [Read more...]
A Guilty Conscience = A Great Hire???
Are you looking to add new individuals to your team in 2011? Studies show that hiring guilt-prone employees is smart business! (Keep in mind, there is a big difference between guilt-prone and guilty) Guilt-ridden people make better employees, tend to work hard, perform better and are less likely to call in sick. All around, they’re dependable. Why? Because they feel bad … [Read more...]
Better to Give than to be Grateful
I received 3 email newsletters this week where the authors share with their readers all that they are grateful for. And although it is certainly good to be grateful, it seems to me that something is missing – a focus on others. I do understand that we find ourselves reflecting and thinking about what we are grateful for during this time of year. However, when truly … [Read more...]
The Marvelous Connector
Shea Megale is 14-year-old author of a successful book series called Marvelous Mercer; but she is no ordinary girl. Shea has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a paralyzing disease that has left her with limited arm strength and compromised motor skills. To help her get around more independently, Shea has a companion dog named Mercer. Mercer knows 60 commands that include turning on … [Read more...]
Why is it so darn easy to say NO?
Oftentimes, there is more risk in customer service when the answer to our concerns is “yes.” Can you help me? Will you make an exception and do this for me just this once? Could you look into this issue I’m having? Being helpful comes with a price, and the price is more work. But what if the tables were turned and the risk was actually in saying “no.” How much better would … [Read more...]
Holiday Parties Are a Great Time to … Network your way into a New Job or New Clients!
Think like an introvert—if you have to go, have a plan. Social events can be nerve-racking. Concerns of who is going to be there, how many people you will know, and what should be said to them can run rampantly through your mind. But instead of succumbing to your clammy hands and being a wallflower all night, formulate a plan of action ahead of time that will help you … [Read more...]
Those Who Can Speak Close More Sales
One of the very best speakers I've had the privilege to hear isn't necessarily someone you may have heard of. He doesn’t make his living earning speaking fees; in fact, he probably has never received a payment for speaking services. He speaks to get his message across and to facilitate sales for his company. He presents within his industry only, so—unless you're a … [Read more...]
I Really Truly Don’t Have Time!
Every day I run across the “I don’t have time!!” objection to getting things done (sometimes it is me saying it). As you’re working to finish this year strong and planning for 2011, here is a quick excerpt from The Connectors that I always find grounding. Often it is the simple advice that makes the most sense! Unless public relations is your specialty, the name Ivy … [Read more...]
The 3 Elements of Infomercials Every Business Should Employ
Blog from Maribeth Kuzmeski of Red Zone Marketing Infomercials help brands sell over four billion dollars of products and services every year. While some members of the advertising industry view infomercials as second-rate campaigns, in general, they work. That’s why they are on all of the time! So whether you use the medium or not, following these 3 elements of … [Read more...]