You own a business and so you should know that the only way to gain any traction and success is to talk about it. But when was the last time you talked about your business to anyone? When was the last time you totally bragged about what it is you can offer? There are plenty of network marketing bigwigs that have no problem talking about their business to anyone and at any time, but that’s not the case for everyone.
Sometimes, people are hesitant to bring it up to other people. They don't want to sound like they’re being pushy about their business or braggy about their achievements. However, if you don't want to talk about your business to other people, how do you expect to grow it? How can you tell people about your sediment sampling equipment and make inroads to be a supplier, if you don't have the guts to speak out? One of the most important pieces of the successful business pie is utilizing communication to your advantage. You need to talk about your business to be able to grow it. You are your business’ biggest advocate, so how do you talk about it without feeling awkward?
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Start with building relationships. You can introduce yourself cold to a business who could use your equipment, or you could introduce yourself as a business owner. You win people over by taking their time and offering them something in return. Go out for lunch or for a coffee and use the time to talk about the equipment and products you offer. Get to know their business before you head out, too, as this will help you to keep them interested in you. Relationship building is so important in business, so start there for success.
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Don't just jump in with what you can offer. Yes, the aim is to talk about your business and what you can do, but you need to wait for a natural point in the conversation to bring up what you can do for them. You can talk about how their business is going and ask them what their plans are for the future. It’s in this moment you can slide in what you do and how you can help them. You are planting a seed in their mind that you want to grow. It needs time to grow, so leave them with some information and a business card - don't ask for a purchase at that critical first meeting.
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Listen closely to what they’re saying to you. If you want to talk business, you need to listen as much as you chat. You are asking questions about their industry, but it’s not just a delay tactic until you can pitch your product. You need to remember that this is a two-way deal! If you don't get the feeling that bringing up business is a good idea, then follow up later and mention it.
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If another business is interested in what you have to offer, then you need to be available to answer their questions - especially if they do have some for you. Always follow up!
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