I've discovered that personal blogging is a lot more fun (and therefore more likely to make it onto my personal agenda) than blogging about work stuff. But it's time to take a break from my family postings and get back to business for a minute.
Last week, I was fortunate to visit the Avon Plus chapter of BNI as a substitute. (One of the "real" members couldn't make it, so I took her place for the day.) It's my old former networking group, and I always walk away with something inspirational or motivational from the meetings. Last week, Ryan Sebree, an account executive with Merritt Hall Insurance, gave his 10-minute presentation titled (something to the effect of) "15 ways you can support my business." It was excellent, and he's agreed to let me share it with all of you.
(I should note that his presentation is an adaptation of an article by Ivan Misner, the founder of BNI, and Robert Davis, titled "15 Ways Other People Can Promote Your Business," found on the Networking Now Web site. You can download the full article, along with descriptive narrative, if you subscribe to the site's member list.)
If you have your own business, are considering starting your own business or are just wondering how you could support my business, read on for some great tips. Thanks for sharing, Ryan.
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15 Ways You Can Support My Business
Presented by Ryan Hall, Merritt Hall Insurance, to BNI Avon Plus, June 19, 2008
Adapted from an article by Ivan Misner and Robert Davis, www.networkingnow.com
- Display my literature and/or products (on a counter or bulletin board).
- Distribute my information (include in your welcome packets, invoices, etc.)
- Make an announcement about me at one of your seminars OR invite me to speak at one of your seminars.
- Invite me to attend events or other networking groups that you belong to.
- Endorse my products and services (simple “Word-of-Mouth” tactics) OR written testimonials.
- Nominate me for recognition and awards.
- Provide me with leads (for example, a rumor about a new company moving into the area).
- Provide me with quality referrals.
- Make initial contact with prospects and sources on my behalf.
- Introduce me to prospects.
- Arrange a meeting on my behalf (if possible, attend the meeting with me).
- Follow up with referrals that you have given me (this builds more credibility with the referral and provides valuable feedback to me for improvement).
- Publish information about me (newsletters or other editorials).
- Serve as a sponsor to a program or event I’m hosting.
- Sell my products and services.
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Obviously, some of these don't apply to my business directly. (For example, I don't host seminars.) But they give you some ideas for how you can promote someone else's business without much trouble. A little can often go a long way for helping someone out. And those of us who have small businesses really appreciate it!
You will always be the only person I ever send referrals to. I know your work and it is truly the best.
Posted by: Jeff | June 27, 2008 at 09:33 AM
I appreciate that, Jeff! Thank you!
Posted by: Corie | June 30, 2008 at 08:55 AM