HOW WOULD YOU SELL SOAP (2007 edition)?

I've heard it all before.
You're saying nothing new.
--- Supertramp, Child of Vision

What if what you offer looks like a commodity to your clients? This is a problem for wholesalers and advisors without a range of products. Distributors also suffer as firms and advisors can look like commodities too. If the client doesn't buy from you, they look elsewhere. No sale for you.

You cannot make me listen.
I cannot make you hear.
--- Supertramp, Child of Vision

How can you get clients to see --- and value --- the differences in what you offer?

What If You Sold Soap?
Wouldn't that be tougher than selling insurance and investments? Here's an interesting video with marketing ideas.



The Lesson
You need to convince a maven, centre of influence or decision-maker. Their endorsement is much more convincing than anything from you. You already know that. The video is a nice reminder.

Links

• How would you sell soap (2010 edition)? [new]

Gift Ideas For Your Business

The greatest gift that you can give yourself is a little bit of your own attention.
--- Anthony J D'Angelo

'Tis the season to give and get gifts. Is your business on your list?
Here are ideas to improve your business. The focus is on increasing your revenue in 2008 by saving you time and increasing your effectiveness.

Presentation Helpers
Here are some items to improve your presentations:

• wireless presenter mouse
• laser pointer
• PowerPoint 2007 (with slick SmartArt and many other improvements)
  
• portable speakers with carrying case (to use audio and video clips )
• mobile broadband Internet
  

Productivity Helpers
The following items will help you work smarter instead of longer

• Dragon NaturallySpeaking (voice recognition works remarkably well; used to compose this post)
  
• wireless Bluetooth headset certified for voice recognition (also usable with your cell phone and Skype)
  

Travel Helpers
you can reduce stress and improve your journey with

• GPS navigation (less stress, more safety)
  
• Audiobooks (fiction or nonfiction)
  
• Skype Unlimited Calling (call any phone in Canada or the US for 12 months for $29.95 US)
  

Don't despair if you don't receive business boosting gifts from Santa or his helpers. According to a Japanese proverb: It's cheaper to buy than to receive a gift.