How Do I Increase My Gift Basket Business Success?
Teri asks:
“I’m just starting my gift basket business and am concerned about succeeding. The economy is making me nervous. What must I do to ensure my long-term success?”
There have been many changes in this industry due to worldwide economic changes. Wholesalers and retailers have closed their doors, but this situation isn’t different than in other industries, and many more gift basket business participants are still in business than have left.
Your best defense to ensure your longevity is to:
1. Create a vision for your business right now, at the beginning, realizing that it’s a business and not a hobby. You’ll put long hours into your success, so be prepared.
2. Understand your target market. Know who they are, what problems they face, and how you’ll position your business to be part of the solution.
3. Invest in your education, both about the gift basket industry and your customers‘ industries. Know these areas inside and out, as this will help you see opportunities that competitors don’t realize until it’s too late.
You have the ability to thrive in any economy, including this one, and many designers are doing just that. Follow what I’ve explained above, and you’ll join them in increasing your success every day.
Creating a Memorable Presentation
Marcia asks:
“I am a member of BNI and I have to do a 10 min. presentation. What are your recommendations?”
It’s still true, when taking the stage, podium, or microphone at any event, that you only get one chance to make a great impression. Here are three tips to wow your audience.
- Start with a question, one that focuses on an ongoing dilemma as they attempt to increase their client base. The answer, as you continue your talk, will explain why gift baskets solve the dilemma.
- Provide examples that prove your point. When the audience can identify with situations faced by others in business and hear how you positively affected the outcome, they’re more likely to become your client.
- End on a high note that extends the sales process. I suggest that you close your presentation by requesting the audience to do whatever you chose as your goal when deciding to give the talk.
Taken directly from their Web site, BNI is “the largest business networking organization in the world. We offer members opportunities to share ideas, contacts, and most importantly, business referrals.”
[tags]gift basket business, speaking tips, presentation tips[/tags]
What’s Your Brochure Question?
I covered a lot of ground this week on the GiftBasketBusiness.com blog’s Create a Brochure series this week, but you may have other questions or comments.
Let me know here if you have specific questions about creating your brochure or catalog. I may know the answer or have an idea, or you are welcomed to share your experience or answer someone’s question.
A catalog is one of the most-expensive business investments, and it’s also one that proves your commitment to clients who are ready and able to buy from you.
What’s your question?
[tags]gift baskets business, how to create a catalog, questions about gift basket brochures catalogs[/tags]
