Where have all the customers gone?

Did the new Chief Executive of Woolworths wake up one morning with that thought resounding through his head? Did nobody notice that sales had been slipping for years? Whilst I agree with many of Mary Portas' comments on what she found on a recent visit to Woolworths' branch in Finchley Road, I … [Read more...]

How to sell in a recession: 1

How can you grow your business when the economy takes a nose dive? ... and your traditional market's sinking without trace? Anybody seen to be "selling" today is probably going to get short shrift, so how about making it easier for your market to buy from you instead? Firstly think about … [Read more...]

6 tips to do your own marketing as a small business

I found this fascinating article today: Research: Figure out what you do best and get to know who your ideal customer is. Segment: Group these customers into some categories.  Don't default to region or industry, that won't help you make more money or give them what they want.  Group … [Read more...]

Making the most of LinkedIN for sales

You may be looking for more sales due to the credit crunch, or you may be hiking up your activity so you don't feel the crunch so bad. I found this article written by Guy Kawasaki over 18 months ago, and if you missed it then, now is the time to catch up and implement his tips and tricks... Most … [Read more...]

When did you last say Thank You?

An often overlooked sales tip, is to say thank you in a highly personal way. It increases customer loyalty and makes them feel appreciated. It can also make you stand out from the crowd, and when times are tough in business it may give you the edge. "Even though business thank you cards offer a … [Read more...]

Business ethics or being nosy. When do you respect someone’s privacy?

I found this interesting blog today: "There has been a lot of hype and noise surrounding Steve Jobs' appearance at the WWDC conference and not just because of the new iPhone launch either.  His gaunt appearance started a furore amongst the tech analysts and journalists as to how his health was, it … [Read more...]

Selling by Payment?

A customer is standing by the vacuum cleaner display. The Sales assistant approaches the customer and asks "are you looking for an upright or cylinder?" Which letter best describes the selling skills? Product knowledge know what you are selling. Acknowledge customer - make eye … [Read more...]