If you're looking for an inexpensive method to get
potential new clients, a great way is by attending seminars. If the
seminar is free it's even better, although some seminars might cost you a
small fee - but whatever the fee, if you get only one client thanks to
that event, it's already well worth it.
It works the same way with networking events, conferences, business
meetings, business showcases and venues. Now I will just take "seminars"
as an example for this article.
You can look on local forums and classified sites, or just key in the
word "seminars" followed by your city in Google - that will do the
trick too. Now you don't really need to go to seminars that have
absolutely nothing to do with your business. Ideally you need some
connection between the attendees and the services/products you provide,
otherwise you could just be wasting your time.
Prior attending any seminar make sure you have a pile of business
card in your pocket - they are indispensable. Don't even think attending
a seminar without business cards, especially when you plan to go
fishing.
Now let's face it: seminars can be difficult to navigate. People get
there and then feel a little uncomfortable, and don't know how to start a
conversation. Seminars are full of "solo professionals" who want to
meet other professionals, in the hope that will lead to some sales.
Now how do you introduce yourself? Of course, do not go brusquely
talk to people, just asking their name and what they do for a living and
then suddenly hand them your business card. No way! That's not going to
work... Most people gather several business cards during a business
event. What you do not want is them to wonder "Who's this?" when
starring at your card the next day!
It's always best if you can integrate a small group, like 3 to 4
persons. Then take your time to participate to the conversation, create a
mood and interact as much a possible. Talk about their problems, this
is the best way to get someone's attention. And when you feel like it's
the perfect time, and only then, ask them for their own business card.
They will of course replicate your request by asking yours in return.
When getting the card, always thank the person by calling them by their
name (written on the card obviously).
Then follow up the next day (when their memory is still fresh). A
good way to follow up is to send by email a FREE report with a small
explanation: "Thought you might like this report related to our
discussion yesterday at the seminar. Hope you'll enjoy it." This is a
good way to keep in touch without sounding like you're begging for their
business.
If you repeat this twice a month, and each event brings you one new
client, I can tell you that you're golden. Because one new client can
bring you repeated sales and more than likely new leads as well.
Business networking is efficient and cost-effective. It might take a bit
of your time, but it's well worth it in the end.
David P. Garray - Expert - Direct Response Copywriting
Visit my website and sign-up for my FREE Newsletters "Jump Start Your Sales" - http://www.davidgarray.com
david@davidgarray.com
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