Direct Sales Approach

[themediahub]

Hi,

I've recently set up a business developing Bespoke Rich internet Applications, E-Commerce systems, websites , IT training and graphic design services for small to medium sized businesses. I am in my 2nd month of business and it is doing well so far- expect for having to chase client payments which is a nightmare.
from the 1st of October I want to start a new marketing campaign where I will be targetting sme's in my city. Rather than bombard these companies with flyers or telephone calls my aim is to approach them directly, that way they get to know who I am and what I can do for them and also I am able to get in touch with the right person directly face to face. I hope to target around 500-700 sme's where I expect at least 10-20 of them becoming clients. If this is successful I want to target each city in my region by the end of the year. What do you think of this method? Has anyone tried this method before and if so what were your results? and what is the best way to introduce myself to them?

Many Thanks

 

[Silky]

Hi,
Speaking from personal experience, I'm just too busy to see prospects unless I've actually sought them out myself. Like a lot of people I get bombarded with calls, catalogues and cold calls and I actually dislike the latter more than the others, it's intrusive and is more likely get my back up than warm me to the actual supplier.

Many catalogues do find their way straight into the grey filing box under my desk (emptied daily ;-) ) but I keep the ones that either stand out from the crowd or have taken an unusual approach. I think the last one I actually got off my backside to contact had sent a quirky video email.

I remember an ad agency in Leeds used to send a monthly letter out that used to have us all in stitches in the office, the head honcho had a great sense of humour and we actively used to look forward to the next missal. Unfortunately they were way beyond our budget ....

Silky

p.s. Anyone offering me a free "taster" of their work may stand out.....