Business Consultant International Blog

In the face of dropping demand and severe rivalry every order has to be contested. Getting it right isn't an alternative; it is a survival strategy. Being lax when it comes to treating a business may mean lost market and a slump in your operation. Most weaknesses are avertable. Observe these 12 pointers if you want your business to last.

· Take the advice of your media advertising representative. Their task is to advertise your business. It is more effective to put up a several small advertisements rather than a few big ones. Always use USP (unique selling points). You might wish to refer to the special promos that you are presently offering.

· Your website should provide for your clients' needs, if they are bilingual, your website should be the same. It's absurd to demand your clients to adjust to you.

· Make the most of the utilization of e-mails. They are real sales promoters when you know how. E-mails have proven to be more proficient as a selling tool than the telephone.

· A clear, succinct signage should be one of the first details on your list. How often I have heard it said: 'But our customers know where we are." How about the ones who haven't heard about you yet? A catchy high visibility sign will be seen by hundreds, perhaps thousands a day.

· Never ignore the importance of first impressions. You cannot anticipate to make a sale if queries are routed through your answering machine. People who call you up expect to get clarifications to their questions. Be polite; listen and respond transparently.

· If you are in business then being a sales person goes together with with the territory. Be more outgoing; learn to sell your business in a pleasant and non-irritating manner and be responsive to the customers' concerns. Never disregard a spouse or partner.

· If you don't get the close right, you won't close. Be a pully-pully salesperson: Ask the client; 'Which would you choose?' or 'Would Tuesday be alright or might Wednesday be better for you?'

· Customers are annoyed and put out by poor timekeeping. Delays are sometimes unavoidable; what's important is that you keep the customer informed regarding the reason behind the delay and the alternative actions that may be taken.

· Give the clients credit for intelligence. They will value being on top of the situation and knowing what is being done to correct it.

· It is upsetting to be given a bill without a breakdown. You might find yourself facing charges of overpricing. customers appreciate candidness. Happy clients are your best sales staff.

· Consider the tale of the man who tried his hand at assuming a business. The first thing he did was ask for a list of dormant clients. He found out that most had left due to poor service. By telling them of the transfer of ownership and handling their worries he learned lessons. Because of that step, most of the dormant customers were induced to patronize them again.

· Always leave two or three business cards in your client's home or premises; where they can be seen. Your customers will not be irritated if you ask them to recommend you to other friends who might require your services, as long as you do the asking in a polite manner. Most importantly, never forget to say the magic words "thank you" to your client.

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