Are you ready for your business
to hit tipping point this year?

For many of us, 2011 was a year of stripping back, refining, reformulating and re-building.

Have you noticed the anticipation growing for 2012 and the promise that it holds? Are you ready to take that promise to tipping point?

Tipping Point is a place that you get to, where the moment you reach it, everything flows, streams, skyrockets. It’s the point where all of your dedication, persistence and focus pays off!

When we first start our business, launch our website, get our business cards, we are so full of enthusiasm, hope and excitement, that it can be somewhat underwhelming, when the phone doesn’t run hot, and we sit patiently waiting for customers to turn up, and our business to build!

Of course, we put things in place, build our networks, activate our social media, get some referrals; and still things aren’t quite what we were hoping…..UNTIL….

We reach TIPPING POINT. Sometimes tipping point seems to sneak up on you, but when you reach it, it’s unmistakeable! Your phone will ring, you’ll get referrals, and your bank balance will begin to grow. Steadily.  Consistently.

Finally – you are officially in business! With real customers who want, need and deeply desire your services.

HOW TO TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO TIPPING POINT

Here are some suggestions for embracing opportunity and building momentum, so that you can enjoy the fruits of your labour….

COLLABORATE One of the most effective ways to build your business is to work with others. In fact trying to go it alone is a sure way to go at a snails pace when it comes to building momentum. Collaboration may be in the form of bundling complimentary services that offer even greater benefits to your clients (I do this with my buddy Jeanne Treloar with Magnetise Your Brand);  creating events with others and cross referring.

BE VISIBLE It’s impossible to grow your business to tipping point if it is hidden. If you have a tendency to be a cave dweller, you will need to get creative and find other ways to be seen. It may also mean coming out of the dark on occasion and connecting with others. Real people. With the onset of social media platforms and video, there really is no excuse to hide under a bushell! If this is scary for you, invest in some of the wonderful services available to build your confidence in this area.

BE SHARABLE It is easier to refer someone who has a reason to be shared. Do you have a particular area of expertise? Are you a thought leader? Are you making an impact that is important to others, and therefore shareable? Perhaps you have a talent for writing great blog content that others wish to share, or offer a service that is irrestistible, that people feel compelled to tell others. Whatever it is, find it, and harness your unique sharibility.

NETWEAVE Some find networking hard work, but it needn’t be if you are clever about it. I like to think of it as a way to genuinely share contacts, make connections, and build lasting relationships. I have found by selecting 2 or 3 favourite networks that overlap, it becomes easier  to build these connections as you are sharing a space with both existing and future clients, where conversation can take place organically. In such a space, referring and helping one another becomes a totally natural process, without the need to push, when each of us are there for the common good. The key is to choose a network that resonates with you, connects you with your target audience, and where you can offer your support as well as receive it. Put it on your start now list for 2012.

KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE The more you know your marketplace, the easier it is to understand them, and cosquently serve them in ways that are meaningful. The sooner that you can recognise the characteristics of your ideal client avatar, the easier it will be to talk their language, offer what is important to them, and attract clients to your valuable service and products. If you have not yet refined your ideal client profile, join Jeanne Treloar on February 22, when we take you through the process of clarifying your perfect client, then attracting them to your business at our one day.

DEMONSTRATE YOUR VALUE The days of flogging a product, and trying to ‘sell’ your customers are over. What you must do is demonstrate your value, to those who need what you do, and invite them to partake. There are many ways to do this. Once you have identified what your unique selling points are, you need to prove it. It’s not enough just to say it in a slogan or catchy phrase, you must demonstrate it. If there are benefits to working with you, I want you to prove those benefits to me. That could be in the form of testimonials; sharing your knowledge through blogging; creating some videos that demonstrate the way you work; having a photo gallery with before and afters shots; or even public demonstrations. Whichever you choose it must be believable. Is your message believable? And if so, how are you demonstrating it?

HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL Sometimes we spend so much time trying to raise our profile, build a presence and establish our credibility, that we forget that we need to sell stuff to be a sustainable business.Once you start to engage the audience you have whose attention you have been aiming to get, you need to make it easy for them to buy from you. What are your products? Are they what your target audience actually needs, in a form that they want it? Do you offer different packages depending on the stage your prospects are at, is it easy to buy, to repeat purchase, to refer and to upsell?

MAKE IT CLEAR WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOUR BUYER And I mean ABUNDANTLY CLEAR! If you are vague, they certainly will be! What outcomes with they receive from working with you or buying your product. What specific problems will you solve? How clear is that in your marketing? Don’t assume they know.

SHARE YOUR MESSAGE IN MULTIPLE WAYS AND BE CONSISTENT Once you have a clear message, products that solve your client’s problems, and ideal prospects to share those with, all you need to do is do so regularly, consistently and through multiple channels. Video, websites, social media, speaking, article writing, blogging, networking, just to name a few. There are 30 suggestions in the Healthy Marketing Blueprint, depending on the nature of your business and your skill set. You can get your free copy when you join The Clarity Club and learn the ins and outs of doing it yourself, without going it alone; or if you prefer I can take you through it in my 12 week activation program.

There’s only one difference between success and failure and that’s not giving up!

Here’s to a fantastic 2012!!

Krishna xx

5 Awesome Plugins to Add to Your Blog

As we develop our blogging skills, so to will our desire to have features that enhance the experience for our readers, and automate ways of attracting people back to our blogs, and sharing our posts.
It’s easy to get carried away by adding every bell and whistle, so I thought I would share 5 of my favourites that I love, and will definately improve your blogging  experience.
Sexy Bookmarks Invite your readers to share your post on their favourite social and bookmarking sites by adding this to the end of each of your posts. You can choose which to include, and what invitation to add (e.g. sharing is sexy, sharing is caring, sharing is knowledge) at the touch of a button.
Social Media Widget Incredibly comprehensive widget to add to the sidbar of your blog or website linked to your favourite social media marketing channels. Just add your social media profile url’s, insert into your sidebar, and you’re good to go!
Comment Luv Reward those who comment on your blog, by including a share of their last blog post. A great way to attract repeat visitors to your site, and nurture relationships with other bloggers which can result in guest blogs and casting your net over a wider audience.
Comment Reply Notification Stay connected with those who comment, but sending them a ‘thanks for commenting’ when they reply to your posts. It’s a lovely way to show you have acknowledge them, and can keep the conversation going.
Google Analytics This little 2 step process is worth it. Create an account at Google Analytics, add the plug-in on your wordpress blog, and watch it do it’s magic. You can discover which of your website posts and pages are driving most traffic, as well where your readers are coming from. An essential tool!

How to Add a Plugin – a little video snapshot

Do YOU have a favourite PLUGIN? I would love it if you could share it with us in the comments below……
HAPPY BLOGGING!
Krishna xx

Sanity Saver: How to Schedule Blog Posts In Advance on WordPress

It’s  blog challenge time again, and that means hundreds of people are frantically putting finger to keyboard to create a daily post for 31 days.

If the thought of making a commitment to regular blogging gives you heart palpitations, then advance scheduling might be just what you need.

What is advance blog scheduling, and why bother?

Scheduling blogs allows you to submit a series of posts in one hit, saving you time, energy, and very often money.  Instead of being bound to writing on certain days, you can do so when you feel inspired, and create a series of articles to be scheduled at a later date.

So, how do I schedule my blog posts in advance?

Good blogging platforms will include a calender facility where you can set the date for posting. For the purpose of this post, and because many of us are using WordPress, I have created a short video demonstrating how to schedule a post.

I hope you find this blog post useful! I would love to hear about any time saving tools you use that you can share with our readers.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, AND HAPPY BLOGGING!

Krishna

Article Writing 101 – How to Create a 7 Tips Article

7 Steps to Writing Great Articles for Your Blog, Website or Newsletter

This is the first of a new series of articles that will help you create article content easily. Each week I will feature a different article format you can use for your website, blogs and article directories, and developed to suit press and magazines, depending on your purpose.

In the spirit of the 7 tips theme, I am going to offer 7 tips for creating great articles. The 7 tips method can be used for almost any topic, product or service! The beauty of the 7 tips method, is that you can break your article into manageable chunks, providing an easy structure to follow, and reduce overwhelm.  

Tip 1.      Write with your reader in mind

 Before starting your article, be clear on who you expect your reader to be, so that you can choose the most relevant content and suitable tone. For example, a trade journal or industry magazine will be very different to a local press article or newsletter. The clearer you are on your ideal client avatar, the easier it you will find it to speak in their ‘language’.  

Tip 2.      Start with a compelling headline

 It’s essential that your headline grab the attention of your ideal reader, so make sure that it appeals to their needs, problems, or imagination. The length of your headline will depend on your publication. For example, news headlines are quite short, but a blog or newsletter may be long. Again, it’s important to appeal to your target audience. Download your 50 article headlines here.

 Tip 3.      Set the scene with your introduction

After the headline, a captivating introduction is necessary, to set the tone for your article, and encourage your reader to continue. It could state a problem, a current issue, or even the latest research or statistic.

Tip 4.      Keep your article jargon free

Unless you are writing for an industry publication or journal, leave the jargon for the text books! Generally speaking an article needs to be understood by a 12 year old. Sounds silly, but its true! Easy comprehension is essential.

 Tip 5.  Keep it concise and to the point

 Excessive wordiness can kill reader enthusiasm, no matter how compelling the topic. This is even more important online. Keep the flowery descriptions to a minimum.

Avoid addressing multiple topics in your article. Choose one idea or concept, and elaborate where necessary.

 Tip 6.      Direct your reader to take action

Knowing why you’re writing your article at the outset will help you to ask for an appropriate action at the end. Would you like them to call and make a booking, visit your website, come to your open day, or make a donation? Whatever your purpose, don’t forget to ask!

 Tip 7.      Make sure your contact details are obvious

 Your article placement will influence how you provide your contact details. Even if it’s on your own site, make sure your contact details or obvious. Your reader should not need to ‘work’ to find them. When sending a press release, you can include a short bio including your business name, what you do, your phone, email and website.

 Summary of the 7 Tips Article Format

  • Headline to capture attention
  • Intro paragraph to set the scene
  • 7 tips – add a subheading for readability, and  a concise description for each
  • Conclusion and call to action
  • Contact details and/or bio if relevant

Note: it’s not necessary to title your article ’7 tips’, or label your points with ‘tips’. I have used this here to demonstrate the structure. 

There you have it! An easy to follow format you can start using today! I would love to hear your 7 tips article ideas for your area of expertise! Or share your links here if you have an example you could share.

Happy writing!

Krishna

Your Brand Personality, and how it shines your light….

My husband is a mad rugby fan, and the house was ablaze with cheers this week, when the New Zealand All Blacks won the 2011 grand final by ONE POINT!!

Now this isn’t just any team. This is the New Zealand All Blacks – arguably the best rugby team on this planet! And, it got me thinking.

They are one heck of a brand!

What is it about the All Blacks that makes them stand out? What makes them unique? 

Apart from the fact that they preceed every game with by doing the N.Z. Haka (a traditional Maori warrior dance)  It really makes a statement about who they are as a team, and what they stand for.  A team personality. A brand.

In 5 words I would say they are:- Fearless. Intimidating. Unified. Courageous. Invincible. (They were actually known as ‘The Invincibles’ in the mid 1920′s!)

Anyway, where am I taking all this?

It’s about your business….as a personality! It has one! But does it show?

Perhaps your business is: helpful, empowering, healing, trustworthy, authentic, inspirational, transformational, peaceful, encouraging, knowledgable…..the list goes on.

How to Determine Your Own Brand Personality

Step 1: Choose 5 words that describe your business personality.

Pick 5 words that accurately descibe your business as a person. As shown in the video, these are not features or benefits, they are actual personality traits!

Step 2: Determine the best ways to demonstrate those attributes

If your business personality is helpful, it makes sense to share tips and how to’s; if your business inspires, you could share quotes and inspirational stories; and if you are trustworthy or honest, you may demonstrate and back up your claims in a credible way. In the video example, Janine makes the bold product claim of 100% carcinogenic free, and has the data sheets to back up these promises. She also provides a guarantee. What’s important here is that you show ALL of the elements, otherwise you will seem one dimensional, and won’t stand out. Don’t forget to add your unique flavour to what you are projecting.

Step 3: Decide where you will demonstrate your value

Once you have decided what and how you can demonstrate your brand personality, brand promises, and brand value, you need to start to do so. Will you use your website, blog, You Tube, or a combination of these? Which social media channels allow you to demonstrate your value best?

    “Your brand is what people say about you when you are not in the room” (Jeff Bezos, Amazon CEO)
    “Build brands not around products but around reputation” (Richard Branson)

What are people saying about your business? What is your brand reputation? The great thing is, that by putting a little thought into what you are putting across, that is totally congruent with your mission, your message and how you want to make a difference, marketing becomes something totally natural, easy to implement, and low cost. How does it get better than that?

Happy and healthy marketing….

Krishna

The video above is short excerpt from the interactive Magnetise Your Brand workshop with myself and business partner, Jeanne Treloar. We show you how to identify your ideal client avatar, create your marketing messages, and visual impressions, and literally magnetise  your brand so that you resonate with your audience, naturally, without hype or force.

Our next workshop will be on the Sunshine Coast on 22 February 2012. Early bird tickets are now available. Go to http://magnetiseyourbrand.com.au

Blog, newsletter or both? That is the question…..

The answer is yes, yes, and YES!

There has been a lot of discussion around blogging in my circles recently, and I was posed the question, do I need a newsletter, if I have a blog?

I believe newsletters are far from dead, but they are definitely mis-represented and underutilised. I am also a fan of the blog. Here’s just a few reasons why.

 WHY HAVE A BLOG:

 It gives you a place to demonstrate your value, and your unique story. How will I know you can deliver what I am looking for? A blog is a wonderful way to consistently share this message. You can share tips and insights that are meaningful to your ideal audience, and weave in your personal story to make it uniquely yours.

 It gives you a voice! Want to make a difference, share a message, help more people? Your blog can be all this and more. Where else can you position what you do, how you do it, and who you help for free? Keep it relevant and consistent, to build a following and make an impact.  

 It is interactive and builds community. The social revolution is here, and blogs are an integral part of that. Allowing people to post comment, and generate conversation in YOUR online backyard is powerful!

 It builds SEO and strengthens your online presence. When your blog is integrated with your website (recommended), and content updated regularly, it is more likely to be indexed by the search engines such as Google and yahoo. Coupled with interaction taking place on your site through community comments and social media, this is enhanced even further.

 WHY HAVE A NEWSLETTER?  

 Newsletters build rapport. A regular, relevant and meaningful newsletter that addresses the specific concerns and interests of your ideal clients is a powerful relationship builder. I appreciate every person that is on my list, the 60% that open my emails, and the percentage that take the time to respond to them. They are why I am here, who I aim to service.

 Newsletters keep you top of mind. What happens after the sale, the free ebook download, or subscription? How do you stay in touch? If 68% of clients go elsewhere because of indifference (not because you did anything wrong), wouldn’t it pay to be in the forefront of their minds? How are your servicing your database? If your database is more than 12 months old, and you have not interacted, it is as icy as a cold call.

 Newsletters encourage referrals. Reminding your subscribers of the services you offer, who, and how you help, are easy to refer and share with others.

 Newsletters drive traffic to your website and blog. Yes, even your blog. Your newsletter arrives in your client inbox, then takes your client to your blog to continue reading, interact with a comment, or access or purchase a service.

BUILDING YOUR NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBERS

 It’s mistake to simply ask people to ‘Subscribe to my newsletter’. That approach will not get you far.  You have to give them a very compelling reason to do so, something irresistible. Why should people subscribe? What is in it for them there? What problem can you solve? What will you make easier for them? Make sure this is obvious.  

Create a compelling gift or offer to encourage subscription. It could be an ebook, and free audio series, or email lessons. I offer my downloadable guide ‘How to Attract More Clients and Keep Your Sanity’ to engage new subscribers. I have just added an audio version to enhance the value even further’. It’s important that your offering be something that would be worth paying for. Demonstrate your value wherever possible, so that people can recognise you have something of benefit to them and are worth following.

 INTEGRATING YOUR BLOG AND NEWSLETTER

It is possible to interact your blog and newsletter. The key is to write your blog, and then broadcast it using an email management system such as Aweber to broadcast it to your subscribers.  

  Your action plan:

  1. Start blogging, and share your posts on Facebook and twitter
  2. Start a newsletter (remind your subscribers why you exist)
  3. Build your database of subscribers (add a signup box to your website with a compelling reason or valuable gift to subscribe)

Need help with any of these things? That’s what I’m here for. I’m committed to making your marketing simple and effective to get maximum results for your efforts. I know you have limited time, money and energy…. I would love to help you navigate those learning curves and shorten the process of becoming visible to your niche.

Blessings and abundance for you and your business

Krishna

GASP! Why wooing your ideal client, doesn’t mean being rude!

I’ve spent the last hour or so immersed in hundreds of blog comments following the fashion faux pas furore of GASP fashion retail outlet this week. Of course I encourage getting clear on who your ideal client is, BUT it doesn’t mean being rude to those who aren’t!! In case you missed it, here is the letter written by a disgruntled customer, and the reply by the totally out of line retail management!!

Read the emails going viral below in full:

Email by Keara O’Neil to GASP:

I had the privilege of shopping at your brand new Chapel St store on Saturday 24th September with my three bridesmaids in tow. On the hunt for bridesmaids dresses and a hens dress for myself we walked into the store and were automatically pounced on by a male staff member, I understand that this is protocol for many retail outlets and ours is no different.

The staff member was initially funny and extremely helpful with sizes etc. I chose a bright pink dress to try on but was unable to do the zip up so asked for the size up, when I eventually got the correct size and came out of the change room I was unable to discuss the likes or dislikes of the dress with my bridesmaids as the sales assistant kept saying “you should just get it”, when I told him I would think about it, he pulled me aside and whispered “Is it the price your worried about”. By now I was extremely frustrated, and again told him I’d think about it, I walked back into the change room and closed the door behind me, only to have it pushed open with the sales assistant half standing in my change room, again whispering “I think you should just get it”, when I gave him attitude and said rudely, “I already told you I would think about it”, he then replied, “With your figure I really think you should buy it”.

I’m not sure exactly what he meant by that, but considering the attitude used to deliver such a statement I can only imagine that it was an immature dig in relation to my healthy size 12 frame. I got changed in a hurry and walked right out of the change rooms and out of the store, I could hear the sales assistant yelling out to me, but I just ignored him and continued to leave, assuming my bridesmaids would follow. After waiting down the road for my bridesmaids to come out of the store I was told by one of them that the sales assistant yelled out “Have fun finding something at Supre”, when one of them approached him in regards to his comments, he replied “I knew you girls were a joke the minute you walked in”. When my bridesmaids walked out of the store another two customers walked out with them, they too could not believe the immaturity of the sales assistant.

I have worked in retail for 12 years and have come across an array of customer complaints over the years, none of which come even close to what I encountered on Saturday at your store, I wish I was exaggerating but unfortunately for your company this person actually exists and is working in one of your stores. I am pretty laid back and was quite happy just leaving your store, it was my bridesmaids who felt the need to say something to him………I dread to think how many customers he has not only offended but how many customers have left your store due to the pressure placed on getting the sale, and then to be harassed when that sale hasn’t taken place.

Ring me, don’t ring, not fussed………I’m just one retailer notifying another of an extremely inappropriate sales assistant.

Keara O’Neil

Response by GASP area manager Matthew Chidgey:

Dear Keara O’Neil,

Having now had the privilege of having both version of events, I am now in a position to respond to your complaint.

From the very outset, one thing that you should be mindful of is; Our product offerings are very, very carefully selected, so to ensure that we do not appeal to a broad customer base. This is something which is always at the forefront of our minds when undertaking buying duties.

The reason for this is to ensure that we only carry products which appeal to a very fashion forward consumer. This by default means that the customer whom is acclimatised to buying from “clothing for the masses” type retailers, is almost frightened by our range, sometimes we have found that this type of customer, almost finds our dresses funny, and on occasion noted comments such as ‘it looks like a dead flamingo’. When we receive comments like this, we like to give ourselves and our buyers, a big pat on the back, because we know we are doing our job right, and modus operandi is being upheld.

Our range is worn by A list celebrities to the likes of Kim Kardashian, Selena Gomez and Katy Perry to name only a few. Now, as one might appreciate, the style counsel for these types of celebrities are not ones to pick “run of the mill” type clothing, and they do so on the basis to ensure that the styles are cutting edge, and only worn by a select few. Similarly these items are priced such that they remain inaccessible to the undesirable.

Insofar as our employee goes; Similar to our product offerings, our employees are selected with a similar approach. Chris whom served you is a qualified stylist whom has a sixth sense for fashion, and Chris’s only problem is that he is too good at what he does, and as I am sure you are aware, people whom are talented, generally do not tolerate having their time wasted, which is the reason you were provoked to leave the store.

Whilst I concede that you work for chain retailer, unfortunately that does not make us like for like. It is probably fair to assume, a lot of what I have said in this email, either doesn’t make sense to you, or you totally disagree with it all, which is what I would expect (unless of course I have you totally wrong – which I doubt).

Let me guess, you would never, ever hire Chris in the course of your duty, would you? This is the very reason, why your comment “from one retailer to another” is so disproportionate, it’s almost as though we are in a totally different industries. Chris is a retail superstar, who possess unparalleled ability, and I am sorry you feel upset by him, but he knew you were not going to buy anything before you even left your house.

So if you would like to do us any favours, please do not waste our retail staff’s time, because as you have already seen, they will not tolerate it. I am sure there are plenty of shops that appease your taste, so I respectfully ask that you side step our store during future window shopping expeditions.

Thank you for your enquiry. END

WHOA!!! What do you think about that eh? What a shocker! In my opinion (I’d love to hear yours…..)

GASP WAS RIGHT ABOUT

- Using the publicity to increase sales

GASP WAS WRONG ABOUT

-Choosing a negative response to leverage social media,
when they could have used it to retract their statement, apologise to the
customer, and make good. Probably not as powerful in the short term, but in
the long term definitely preferable.

So yes, GASP is on everyone’s lips this week, but probably
not for long. When you consider you can order a ‘designer’ dress yourself online
for a fraction of the price, then why wouldn’t you? They have not demonstrated
their value, they have demonstrated their contempt for those who may purchase
from them.

If you would prefer to MAGNETISE YOUR BRAND in a positive
way, then come and spend the day with me and my creative genius colleague Jeanne Treloar, as we show you how to attract your ideal client, create marketing messages and conversations that resonate them by addressing their concerns and offering
solutions. You will also create a visual brand representation. By the end of
the day you know where, when and how to create positive converstions around you
and your brand message.

I PROMISE YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE RUDE!

If you want to be highly visiable and attract your ideal client, register at http://magnetiseyourbrand.com.au

Have a wonderful weekend!

Krishna x

7 Lessons from a Hair Iron Salesman!!! What the…?

Well, I did it. I bought a hair iron/hair straightener. It only took about 5 minutes to make this buying decision, and it got me thinking!

How long does it take YOUR customers to make a buying decision, or do they have to go away and “think about it”, before a final decision is made.

I decided to reflect and dissect my hair iron buying  experience, and see what it was that influenced my buying decision. What exactly was it that enabled me to hand over $200 in 5 minutes flat!

Oh, and if you think I’m making this up – here’s some video footage taken by my mate Jeanne, from Magnetise Your Brand.

I noted 7 lessons provided by “Roberto” the hair iron salesman (said with a roll of the tongue….). I’d love to hear your thoughts and a’has! I know I certainly had a few….

DECIDE WHO TO FOCUS YOUR EFFORT ON

My kinky, poorly straightened hair was the perfect giveaway as a potential purchaser (see video). Roberto knew this! The sooner you work out the characteristics of a likely purchaser, you can use your time, money and energy wisely. So it’s very important to identify your ideal client, so your efforts will get the best result possible. Beats burnout! Learn to understand your ideal client intimately.

ADDRESS POTENTIAL CUSTOMER CONCERNS HEAD ON

I know we talk a lot about sharing the benefits and outcomes that you offer when it comes to promoting your product and service. This is true. BUT, it’s just as important to address the silent concerns buzzing around in your prospects mind. Roberto began to address possible objections before I had a chance to say them:

Objections in my head:

‘It’s not hot enough’ I had done enough research to know that a decent heat was needed for a good result. I could have easily said “no” because this iron didn’t reach the heat of well known quality brands such as GHD. BUT! Roberto put my mind at rest by letting me know about the infrared technology that allows the iron to be just as effective without extreme high temperatures! (Their point of difference). Cool! What point of difference do you offer that sets you apart from your competition?

‘It will burn my hair’ Roberto demonstrated the gentleness of the iron by using it on a cotton ball, holding it for a prolonged period, with not a singe mark to be seen. This little demo was very convincing. How could you demonatrate your product or service with a little bit of wow factor, that makes an impression?

‘What happens if it malfunctions?’ Roberto reassured me by pointing out the 3 tiers of warranty protection! I could bring it back to them (at the Plaza), I could send it to the distributor, I could send it to the manufacturer! At each level my return would be honoured, even if I had dropped the item. Yes, even then! He pointed out the website. He pointed out if they weren’t at this plaza, I could be at any one of their other locations. How can you reduce the risk with a warranty, or return policy?

APPRECIATE CUSTOMER OBJECTIONS

Objections can enhance the sales process, rather then hinder it. Objections are simply a request for more information. Being familiar with frequently asked questions is also a great source of material for writing your blogs, articles and website content. They also help to encourage conversation, a dialogue between you and your consumer. This helps to build rapport and relationship. AND raving fans! Customers deserve to know if it works and if it is effective. A natural conversation around this builds both trust and credibility. Embrace it.

ASK QUESTIONS AND OFFER CHOICES

In a space of a few minutes I was asked a few questions. What colour iron did I like (purple of course)?  Would I like to try curls? (Why not, sounds like fun?)  How do I straighten my hair? (I don’t. Yet. I blowdry). Again, each response builds rapport, helps to identify a need, and checks for preferences. Ask your prospect questions, so they have a chance to respond, and you can uncover their real needs and desires.

ASK FOR THE ORDER

Roberto assumed I was a buyer. I didn’t feel pushed. It was just a conversation. He answered my queries. He came acoss as someone passionate about his product. He demonstrated it’s effectiveness, he built my desire. Then he asked for the order. Do you ask for the order, or do you leave it to chance? Ask for the order in a way that feels comfortable and natural for you.

ADD VALUE AND EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

Now this was an interesting development. As well as my you beaut straightening iron, I was presented with a 14 visit card where I could have my hair styled for free. What’s so interesting? It was offered as I made the purchase! It was NOT offered as an enticement to purchase. Perhaps it was something to make me feel good about the transaction, rather than thinking  I was parting with 200 bucks! What can you surprise your customers with, purely a gift with no expectation? Nice.

At the end of the day, your client wants to know if your product or services works. They want to know if it is effective. They want to know if it will solve their problem. They want to know how big the risk is to them if they part with their money. It is your job to show then that YES it works, YES it is effective as a solution, and YES, you will wear the risk for them.

Take a look at the message you are sending now, and your sales processes. Do you have any? Are you leaving it to chance? By including some of these elements you will be closer to have more clients, and more money in the bank.

How to get noticed by the clients you wish to serve…..

Have you ever wondered what it takes to get noticed by the clients you wish to serve without being pushy? Do you find yourself wondering why your ideal clients seem to be going to someone else?

This weeks post is inspired by a workshop I am working on with my branding buddy Jeanne Treloar, and I wanted to share some ot the insights that will help you to create brand messages that get you noticed by people you want to help, and are ready to purchase your services.

It’s about words you use and the impression you make, how you make them and who to!

So if you want to Magnetise Your Brand, you need to begin with 5 elements.

Here’s a video out-lining them, plus I’ve listed them below.

1. List your products, your services and your workshops

2. List the things that your clients are feeling BEFORE them come to see you. Their problems, descriptive words and emotions. Keep it simple, and don’t think too hard!

3. List the outcomes….the feelings they will have AFTER an experience with you, including anything unique.

Now you are armed with the essentials you need before you start crafting your taglines, headlines, and other marketing messages.

4. Identify your ideal clients. These are the people that you will have in mind as your create your marketing messages.

5.  Work out where you’d like to share your messages. By speaking, through video, blogs, articles or face to face. Don’t be limited by what others say, but choose what suits you and your ideal clients. Be yourself!

SHARE YOUR MESSAGE!

The key is to be sure that you message are shared with the people you aim to serve, that you address their concerns and their desired outcomes, and that you are communicating it consistently and effectively.

Need help?

Join us on October 18 for a 1 day intensive to create your personal branding toolbox.

Identify your ideal client, and how to attract them using words, taglines, headlines and stories that connect with them deeply, and create your brand palette. A must do for anyone with an important message to communicate!
BOOK NOW http://magnetiseyourbrand2.eventbrite.com/

How to use trends to promote your business easily

Have you ever noticed, that when there is a trending topic in the media, that every television, radio and newspaper seems to start talking about it?

Imagine if the trending topic was YOUR topic, your area of expertise or what you are passionate about? If you have ever heard that inner voice respond passionately to a comment, perspective or issue presented by someone else publicly, then you know what I’m talking about.

It’s time to take matters into your own hands, and become part of that energetic buzz, as and when it happens!

This video, explains exactly what I mean, with two examples……


So, can you think of current topics that you could provide some commentary on? Here’s 3 simple tips to consider, that you can USE TODAY! 

1. Keep an eye on todays news. What’s the latest trend? Be aware of trending topics for inspiration

2. Write blogs posts that are relevent to todays ‘news’. News doesn’t have to be current affairs, it can also be fashion trends (what is Princess Katherine wearing), attitudes (who’s behaving badly, and what your perspective is on managing, angrer/grief/pain/loss, or any other emotion you care to name)

3. Generate facebook discussion around trending topics. Use your status line to ask a question about something you saw on tv today, or witnessed on you tube, or a comment you heard. Ask peoples opinion….the  love to give it!

My point is…..marketing doesn’t have to be difficult. Sharing your value is a daily opportunity if you keep your eyes peeled and ears open! MARKETING MADE EASY means you share your perspective, instead of keeping it to yourself. It’s about authenticity. Openness. Transparency. People will be drawn to you when you share your value in a genuine way, instead of in a salesy pushy way. Once they are in your circle of influence, they can sign up for your stuff, where you can go deeper and offer your products and services. It’s about relationship. But to build that, people need to know who you are and what you stand for. Don’t be afraid of it – embrace it! Invite them into your inner world, grow your circle of influence and see your business transform.

So, what are your thoughts, do you have a bee in your bonnet? What’s in todays news that gets’ you fired up?  Let us know what you think!

Happy trending!

Krishna xx

Join us on Wednesday February 22 for a 1 day intensive to create your personal branding toolbox.

Identify your ideal client, and how to attract them using words, taglines, headlines and stories that connect with them deeply, and create your brand palette. A must do for anyone with an important message to communicate!
BOOK NOW http://magnetiseyourbrand2.eventbrite.com/