Plans for 2009 http://www.hchristie.com/plans-for-2009.htm en-us 2008-11-04 <![CDATA[Network or Starve WCCC Event]]> Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce. I definitely feel it was aptly titled! It was held at the Breezy Hill Party House, which used to be the Vally View. Rachel Heywood and her staff did a fantastic job with the remodel (I can't wait to see what they do with the other half of the building!), and the food was fantastic. A couple of the Buffalo Jills were there signing autographs, and it was a Bills themed night with trivia questions and prizes to win. All the vendors with booths donated door prizes, and I would like to congratulate W. Glen Sedam on winning the gift certificate I offered. During the networking, I realized how rusty I am at showcasing my services, so I thought my hindsight might help you see 20/20 if you have a similar event in your future.
  1. Make sure you can describe what service or product you offer in a couple sentences, including what your businesses unique benefits are. Don't assume that people know what you do from your business name and tagline, and then launch into a sales pitch. People make assumptions, and its better for you if you start the client or customer relationship based on facts.
  2. In that same "assumptions" vein, don't pass by someone who you feel won't need your product or service, or who is your competition. Your goal should be to get good information about your business out to as many people as possible so that your name is the one they think of when the need arises. Also, it has been my experience that other small business are willing to help with advice and recommendations - invaluable information when you are trying to be as efficient as possible.
  3. Ask questions - I know your think "well duh Heather!" - What I mean is don't ramble on and on to fill the conversation void. And ask questions that will help you learn the most about this prospect relating to your industry. I usually ask "How do you advertise now?", "Who does your printing?" or "What do you like best about your business?".
  4. And maybe most importantly, give away bags. Rivellino Realty did, and I thank them for it - so I could carry all my freebies home easily!
Have a great 4th quarter, and start those plans for 2010!
Heather]]> by Heather Christie <![CDATA[First Quarter 2009]]>
I am a "glass half full" kind of thinker, so I look at the slower times as opportunities to reflect on the successes and failures of the past year. So many directions I would like to go! Here's my advice as you make plans for your business;

• Review your statement of purpose, business plan or other charter planning that you've done. Look at the steps you took to reach these goals and note what worked and what didn't. Base your plans for the next year on what you learned so far.

• Analyze your record keeping. Not just balance sheets, but client contact lists, advertising results and other information that is vital to growth. Gather as much information from your clients as possible; it will be essential to recognizing your target market and making advertising strategies.

• Continue your education. Go to a seminar, find a mentor, connect with peers. It will help you to stay inspired, and keep you from getting stuck in a rut.

Best wishes for a great 2009! ~ Heather]]> Posted 2008-11-04 by Heather Christie