Copyright 2000, Rose Smith
How leary are you when you start to hear a sales pitch coming? I know I tend to shut off and start backing away quickly. I think most of us tend to have the same sort of reaction. None of us wants to be taken to the cleaners, now do we?
Before a potential customer will buy anything from you, they need to know that:
a) You can be trusted;
b) That you will honor your promises and guarantees;
c) That you are an ethical and honest person.
So, how do you accomplish the task of convincing your potential customer that you are sincere? Here are some guidelines that should put you on a good footing with your target market (these work online and offline):
1. Be honest. Don't make far-fetched, unbelievable claims or promises that you can't fulfill. "Make $90,000 in 90 days" sounds unbelievable. "Make up to $3000 per month in your own home based business" sounds more realistic.
2. Encourage your customers to ask questions and give comments and suggestions. Answer questions as promptly as possible (preferably within 24 hours) and acknowledge suggestions.
3. Indicate the benefits your customer will receive from your product. Explain the different ways it can solve their problems. Remember, be truthful.
4. Offer a money back guarantee and honor it promptly should they request a refund. In fact, offer them a special discount or some sort of freebie on their next order. This helps promote good-will.
5. Display testimonials from happy customers. Request the use of these testimonials first and ask if it's okay if you display their full name and some way for other customer's to contact them, should they wish to verify that you sell good products.
6. Make sure you give potential clients some way of contacting you (name, address, phone number, email, etc.) Business cards are always excellent promotional tools, but also include this information on letters, order forms and on your web site. (Don't forget to include your web site URL on all paper materials as well).
You'll develop a loyal customer following if your practice the above methods. And happy loyal customers will refer others to you by word- of-mouth. It's one of the best ways to grow your business!
Rose is the author of "Freedom At Your Fingertips", an ebook designed to help you understand what lies behind the secrets of successful entrepreneurs and how anyone can reap the rewards of self-employment. Visit her website at http://www.wealthyattitudes.com for free home based information and resources.