ed indefinitely, often for the better. But make no mistake: If you're used to running your business as many sole proprietors do like a personal piggy bank those days will be fond memories. Your new partners will be putting their money, time, expertise and dreams on the line. They'll be looking for a return and say. Of course, you're looking for a return, too. You want to expand your business. You didn't indicate whether you wanted to expand by moving into new locations, offering new services or merely taking on additional business. Others may disagree, but we believe you should thoroughly evaluate all other options before bringing partners into your business.8AOur lives are generally organized around long-term relationships a favorite dry cleaner, hair stylist and family doctor come to mind. It's easier to stay with the companies and products we're used to, and as consumers, we respond well to communications programs that build loyalty and earn our trust. So a successful marketing strategy should include an integrated marketing campaign that builds trust with prospects through the selling process and maintains customer service relationships with them long after the initial sale. That’s where transactions come in, it’s the relationship guidelines with your clients that create a good and effective transaction.It’s the good targeting of a client that can subdue an effective transaction. Now the new questions arise who do I pick as my client? And how do I get their attention? Hot prospects are the ones you've successfully moved through the first two stages of your sales cycle. When your marketing program has brought them to this point, personal selling will be needed to supply the "heat" to close sales. Instead of holding ordinary meetings with your top prospects, arrange to bring sample box lunches. Breaking bread together will help you showcase your abilities, forge positive relationships and close key sales. As transa...
