FollowI admit it! I’m hooked on a crazy financial TV program called Mad Money. And judging from the fact that it’s shown three times a night on CNBC, I’m not alone. The host, Jim Cramer, is a stock market pundit and a real “character.”
It’s a show about making money in the stock market and it’s like nothing else you’ve ever seen. So what does this have to do with selling promotional products? Plenty!
Whether you like the show or not, there’s a lot you can learn about growing your sales from the host’s unique approach.
1. Be Unique: Jim took a generally dry topic – one that everyone was presenting the same way – and made it fun and interesting. He established a personal brand like no other. With so many people in promotional products sales these days, what are you doing that is different, better or unique in order to stand out and make a name for yourself? You don’t need to be outrageous like Jim, but you do need to give your clients a reason to buy from you that separates you and what you’re offering from the competition.
2. Do the Research: Jim tells his listeners to “do their homework” before they buy stock. That’s the same thing you need to do before you call on a new account. Research their website. Check out their logo. Do an internet search and see what has been written about the company. The more you know ahead of time, the better prepared you’ll be to meet a new client’s needs. And while you’re at it, research your current clients. Go to their web sites, read articles, talk to employees. A little investigative work ahead of time may uncover promotional products opportunities you never thought about!
3. Spot Trends: Jim looks for trends in business so he can advise his listeners ahead of time where the big money is headed. How good are you at spotting trends? Are you reading the business magazines and newspapers? What are people talking about that can help you grow your sales? Hint: Think new technology like iPods. What complimentary products can you sell to promote this new technology? Think about distance learning and opportunities to promote it. Think about baby boomers and adventure travel. What companies can you target to capitalize on these trends?
© 2005 – 2013 Rosalie Marcus
Rosalie Marcus, The Promo Biz Coach ™ is a promotional products business expert, coach and speaker. Combining her skills and years of experience in promotional sales, she helps her clients sell more at higher profit margins and dramatically increase their incomes! Get a FREE special report: 10 Big Mistakes Promotional Professionals Make and How to Avoid Them and a FREE Skyrocket Your Sales audio download at http://www.promobizcoach.
Reach her at Rosalie@promobizcoach.com or 215-572-6766.
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