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NO...not
the computer way through the internet, but IN PERSON, face-to-face,
the original way. The fact is that business is still
conducted best
with face-to-face contact. Sure, advertising, including
web pages, can bring prospective clients to your door, and
the internet even includes order forms which can be effective
in some basic situations to close the sale. But that
special human connection still does the best sales job whether
on the golf course, at a Chamber luncheon, while entertaining
or at a formal meeting.
In addition to face-to-face dialog, a business card at just
a few cents each is one of the most common advertising/marketing
investments. Marketing packages always include a business
card with each contact whether in person or added to handouts
and mailers.
At a recent Chamber meeting, while networking, a fellow members
told me a story. It turns out that he had talked to
and then casually passed on his business card to someone at
the previous Chamber meeting. He honestly never thought
it would amount to anything. Lo and behold, he received
a call, the prospect placed a sizable order and he expects
repeat business ahead.
So, what
am I getting at and why? Well,
when I notice people coming to the luncheon (or any meeting
of potential customers) at the last possible minute and then
rushing out the door when or before
its over, that doesn't allow much time for networking!
I wonder if they are missing some great opportunities.
Why not allow at least 15 minutes on either side of the next
Chamber meeting, bring a bunch of business cards and purposely
find one or two new potential clients to talk to? And
use the Chamber directory to find them in advance of the meeting!
It could be as beneficial as the true example above proved
to be. PERSON-to-PERSON
NETWORKING --the PROVEN way!
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