How Do I Get This Account?
Julie asks:
“A supermarket in my area is really popular, and they want me to make their Mother’s Day gift baskets. I really want this account but I’m scared. What do I do first?”
Congratulations on this opportunity, and changing scared to thrilled and excited is the first thing to do (or try to do).
I remember feeling the same way when a wine and liquor chain approached me to create their baskets.
Writing my questions about their needs and preparing myself as much as possible for questions they’d have for me was my second step.
Meeting them in person and making sure that I didn’t give away my services just because it was a big opportunity was third.
That’s the main blueprint I can share with you, and additional help to make sure that you plan for every step is available in the Golden Basket Club. I’m mentoring several designers now who are negotiating with big businesses that are planning to add gift baskets in their stores.
No matter what the media is telling you, there are opportunities to win sales now. Your question proves that. I know you’ll succeed.
How Do I Keep Business Going Now?
Savannah asks:
“My gift basket sales are way down now, and I know I’m not alone. I’m very concerned. How do I keep my doors open while waiting for this economy to bounce back?”
The media continues to paint a grim economic picture, and while the facts are true, I still believe that “waiting for this economy to bounce back” will destroy your business.
These three examples represent reasons for buying gifts and baskets, and your business is in a great position to get these sales.
When a baseball is hit, the on-field team runs toward the ball rather than wait for the ball to roll to them. Waiting allows the other team to score or get into position to score. So, for you, waiting is similar to allowing a competitor to get the account.
Get into the sales game by going after clients rather than waiting for them to come to you.
Invest in breakfast or lunch with a loyal client. Mail letters or postcards. Do what’s necessary, within your budget, to make contact.
Waiting for the economy to get better is not an option.
