CompuServe Messages

Hi James, I am still fairly new in business, and I have been doing quite a few cold calls. I've heard that poor marketing is what kills a lot of new businesses. I've hit up everyone I can think of for possible contact people (friends, computer dealers, family, architects/drafters, high school classmates, friend of a friend of a friend…). Also scoured the yellow pages under an assortment of subjects. After my initial "pitch" and rejection or demo, I make quick easy-going follow-up calls periodically (maybe once a month). No pressure, just a reminder that I'm still here. Write down any possible connections they mention, and follow them up. Thank the person later for the lead. Network, network, network. I'm in a small enough city that my name has already started bouncing around places I've yet to solicit. Be professional, yet warm. Do not be self-critical of your demo work, unless you know you are with a graphics person who knows their stuff, then consider quick comments explaining exactly what you would redo. I (we) am constantly improving my skills, and become less happy with everything I've made as time goes by… yet most people are blown away by my stuff anyway. It is rude for me to tell them it isn't good enough. They may like it a lot. Try not to play too much to one person in the room during a demo. The most verbal person may not be the most connected. If you have the time, it might not hurt to do a sample flying logo for a company you are soliciting. This is part of why my dad agreed to loan me some cash a while back, I did one for his business. Nothing great, but fun for him and me. Just random thoughts. Check back in a year to see if it worked. <g> Paul S.