Image courtesy of Boston.com

This week we are discussing the dreaded lull in sales that seems to happen out of nowhere, when least expected.  Yesterday, we talked about tracking inquiries and sales to identify trends in the timing of our season.  Today, let’s get MOVING!

When things slow down a little, it’s natural to turn inward and start organizing, filing, sorting.  We want to take advantage of the quiet time to get things in order.  This is all well and good, but it’s WRONG.

When sales are slow… it’s time to get off your butt and promote, network, SELL!

ALWAYS BE PROMOTING!

I’m re-posting this from a few months ago… it’s super-applicable to this week’s topic.

10 WAYS to PROMOTE your BUSINESS NOW:

  • Email 10 vendors to arrange a coffee date (new contacts and old ones)
  • Send 10 thank you notes to people you admire
  • Arrange a venue/site visit (get to know the catering manager at a venue)
  • Call a fellow colleague and ask them how they are promoting their business – brainstorm together
  • Follow up on clients who’ve inquired and not yet replied to you (I do this every 3-5 days until I hear back from that person)
  • Organize a networking event
  • Join a networking group; attend a group meeting
  • Volunteer at an event
  • Attend a networking event
  • Create a fun “mailer” – something catchy and fun for people to learn more about you and your business

When the email and phonecalls from inquiries have slowed down, it’s time for you to speed up!  People refer the last person they met with (often – not always) because the person is fresh on their minds.

Get out there… do the hustle!