Competition for customers in most industries is extremely intense. This is exacerbated if the customer is a large one and your product is not particularly unique or patent protected. Your customers are also in a high pitched battle with their competitors. This can be seen in your everyday life. Look at the competition in cars, retail stores, food stores, homes, computers, music, etc., for your dollar. This extends into the industrial sector and personal services. Here are some non-cash ideas to help your small business better compete. Read more »
No Can Become a Yes in Selling
Would you believe NO can get you a good Yes? Yes, it’s true; sometimes NO is the keyword for successful selling. In all negotiations and selling which falls into that category, you need to understand the other person’s needs, job responsibility, and goals. One of the major responsibilities of a buyer is to get the […] Read more »
WHEN to SAY NO to a CUSTOMER
They're your business's lifeblood, but that doesn't mean you have to be a push over. All customers, especially buyers in business-to-business transactions, have a responsibility to their pocketbook, which you, as the provider of services or goods, need to understand. The customer's goal is to get the best deal they can. In pursuing their agenda, customers may cajole push or even demand the best deal possible. Sellers shouldn't take this personally. The customer is only doing his job. But, as important as it is to satisfy your customers, there are times when the right thing to do is to say no. Read more »
Don’t Overlook Your Suppliers
Don't overlook your suppliers--they are hidden assets and can help your business grow. Your approach to suppliers needs to be part of your strategic plan since almost every company, whether product- or service-oriented, is dependent on suppliers. Many business owners seem to get this supplier issue backwards. They think that because they write the order, they're in the dominant position and can exploit it with unreasonable demands, including personal perks. Let's get this right--you need good and reliable suppliers. When you find them, treat them like gold. Read more »
FACTORS: How They Can Help Your Cash Flow and More
Factors finance $120 billion in receivables, yet most small and start-up businesses are not aware of them. Business schools rarely acknowledge them. However, they can alleviate your cash flow problems. They can loan you or advance you money against your receivables and in some cases against your inventory. In other words, your receivables are an asset that the lender (Factor) purchases. Read more »
Never Forget Your Customers
Customers are the key to business growth. Meet or exceed their expectations and prosper. The No. 1 need for business success is a customer. That's pretty obvious, so why am I telling you this? It may be obvious but most companies seem to quickly forget this essential fact. Small and startup companies desperately need customers to begin their journey to profits and sustainability. Many large Fortune 1000 companies forget the customers who made them successful. Read more »