Are We Using Yesterday'sTools
for Tomorrow's Business?
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The first in a series of
PromoTip Commentaries.
"Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine."Robert C. Gallagher
The Paradigm Shift. Whether you believe it or not, the business world is changing. We've all seen it. While there are clearly success stories and opportunities, as a whole our industry is facing many challenges. In this economy we are dealing with reduced buying budgets, more price conscious buyers, legislative restrictions, environmental and product safety concerns. These are just a few of the things that affect our livelihoods.
I've developed great relationships with my clients and in a couple of cases recently I've lost business to lower pricing and in one case tax evasion. Click here for my video rant on this that I've entitled I'm Mad as Hell! While these things do frustrate me, they don't distract me from focusing the positive. Business comes and business goes.
As we move through this interesting economy, will address issues that affect us all. This program thrives on providing timely, relevant information we present. We welcome contributions from our community and appreciate your comments. Be the first to know when new things get posted, become a Facebook Fan.
I appreciated the many people who contacted me directly and on the website as we pronounced that promotional products are going in the toilet. While one person at a supplier company out of the 8000 who opened that e-mail was offended, I was a bit surprised that many felt I was literally talking about the industry being in the toilet. If you missed that article and the video that started it all, click here.
To be clear, I DON'T think the promotional products industry is going in the toilet. Based on what's happening in the economy in general, however, I'd like to suggest that we begin to think differently. Are we using yesterday's tools for tomorrow's business? I think so. NOW...to change our thinking!
To start things off, what areas can we start changing how we do business? Do we need to change how we do business? Click here to comment at the bottom of this article on FreePromoTips.com.
Jeff Solomon, MAS
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Following Up on Valentine's Day...
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Here are 10 Phrases to Show Customers Love:
These 10 phrases are an illuminating reminder of how uncomplicated it is to make customers feel loved.People don't care how much you know, (or what you sell, or what type of service you provide) until they know how much you care!
The 10 most important words: "I apologize for our mistake. Let me make it right." When something goes wrong, most people just want to be heard and acknowledged. So listen, apologize, and then ask what you can do to make it right.
The 9 most important words: "Thank you for your business. Please come back again." Repeat customers cost less than new customers and are often more loyal.
Click here for the rest of the list!
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