BETTER BUSINESS
Issue Fifteen, December 2006
In this months issue:
Christmas and New Year Holidays
Obtaining More Leads
Holiday Email Marketing
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS
For many of us, late December through early January is the time of year where we spend the most time out of the workplace environment. However, for many business owners it can be difficult to break free and have a sufficient rest. Keeping a healthy work/life balance is critical as it:-
- Reduces stress, depression and illness.
- Allows you to step back from day-to-day activities and refocus on the business as a whole.
- Gives you a chance to take time out to set goals for 2007 with a clear mind.
If your business must continue, ensure it is setup to run with minimal input from you, (i.e. a good manager, good systems etc.) Remember a business that can run without you is worth more when you decide to sell it. Bearing this in mind, make it easy for your staff to take a break also. Business owners who make it difficult for their employees to take holidays risk losing good people through illness or resignation. Employers can also face the risk of losing an employee and gaining a competitor.
OBTAINING MORE LEADS
A common misconception with business owners is that in order to obtain more business leads they need to invest a large amount of money. This is not the case and HWI offers some alternative, low-cost methods to increase lead generation: -
- Ask for referrals: Family, friends and satisfied customers will be more than willing to assist you in making your business successful – don’t be afraid to ask if they know of any “like-minded” people who could benefit from your services or expertise. New Zealander’s find it difficult to ask for referrals for fear of embarrassment or rejection.
- Contact your existing customers: It is six times easier to generate business from existing customers than from new ones because you have already established the relationship. If you keep in regular contact with your customer base then it will make your job even easier - remember the 90 day rule (see Better Business issue 1, September 2005). Timing can be crucial to maximise results – the best time to ask is after you have done something pleasing.
- Cold Calling: If practiced regularly, a simple old-fashioned phone call can generate results for your business. Focus on results by setting a daily goal and making calls until you reach the goal. This may be to get an appointment, sale or new referral (as appropriate).
HOLIDAY EMAIL MARKETING
Sending holiday e-mail campaigns is an excellent way for you to stay connected with your customers, clients and anyone else on your list. Aside from spreading some festive cheer, the most obvious use of holiday-themed e-mail marketing is to encourage sales, however, consider the following: -
- Remind customers about gift cards or perhaps even send customers one!
- Offer gift ideas or Christmas/New Year promotions
- Communicate your working hours over the holiday period
If you haven’t yet geared your business up for electronic marketing then perhaps it should be part of your strategy for the new year.
Noticeboard
This is the last Better Business until mid February 2007. We hope you have enjoyed these informal newsletters and would welcome you forwarding them to any interested associates. If you have any queries, please contact us.
The staff at HWI hope you have a safe and relaxing festive season and look forward to being of service to you in the new year.
Disclaimer: Information contained within this document is of a general nature and does not constitute advice. Readers are cautioned not to act or rely on it without first seeking professional advice.
