The Art of The Sale

I’ve never fashioned myself a huge salesperson but yesterday I had a epiphany……or what Oprah likes to call my "ah- ha," moment as I was discussing a new product concept with one of my clients.

You see, to support myself though college I sold everything from magazines over the phone to sweaters at Sears. I HATED every moment of it and I just knew it was not for me. However as I was explaining this new line my client smiles and says in her most serious voice, "You know you should be a Sales Rep.”

I immediately dismissed it…”No, that’s not me; I’m more behind the scenes in marketing.” Also I just happen to really love this stuff. As soon as the words came out of my mouth I saw the difference.

I Believed.

I knew this product was going to be well made, super soft and something I couldn’t wait to wear myself. It excited me and I was positive it would work for my client as well.

And, Folks there’s the difference!

For you Designers who feel the way I felt, and are scared to do your own sales…why not give it a try? The hardest part is finding the sale prospect…and what better way than warming the sale up through direct mail, web marketing and other non intrusive sales prep techniques. You know how to do it! Send your mailings...and follow up via phone. Even though people may be unnerved by the interruption they can only hurt you so much through the phone lines.

So if it’s your first season out to bat and you’re a little gun shy because “You’re not a salesman,” Just remember...if you love your product.....All things are possible when you believe:)

A Fresh Start

I started thinking about my blog. It’s been way too long…I know people have been checking it out but I’ve barely had the energy to read it myself. So I’ve decided to freshen it up a bit, change the format to something a little more “digestable,” if you know what I mean… Short and Sweet Tips...Smart Little Pearls of wisdom on how to market your line or your boutique.

As a consultant I meet with designers, boutique owners and other design related companies just about every day. I make it my business to keep my ear to the ground. Therefore, I learn something every day. People are always talking about what works..what doesn’t work..yadda…yadda…yadda.

So for those designers and retailers that have no time to sit through the endless seminars, meetings and conferences like I do…and so enjoy…I’ll be happy to share my knowledge with you. Check back in a bit…I will start today!