With the planning stage behind you it’s time to focus your energy on reaching
out to your first customer or client. Think of it as one small step for you,
one giant leap for your home business.
You’ll certainly be over the moon when you make your first sale, but there are
a few simple steps that you’ll have to make along the way
Make a list (check it twice)
Draw on your existing resources, grab your address book and circle the
friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances you think might be interested
in your product or service. Also add to the list the details of local people
and businesses who may want your goods or services too.
Pitch up
E-mail these people to announce your new business venture. Use this as an
opportunity to make your pitch, but don’t be too pushy. And remember,
address each recipient personally, as there is nothing special about
receiving a group e-mail!
Good design creates a good first impression for potential customers. Think
about what you’d like as your company font, colours and layout. Have a go at
designing this yourself, but, if in doubt, hire the services of a
designer/neighbour/friend. Good presentation can make a world of difference,
and it may just be the very difference that clinches your first contract.
Follow up
Follow up each approach after a few days, either with another e-mail or,
better still, a phone call. When you call, stand up and smile - it will make
you sound confident and positive. Take some soundings as to the success of
your pitch and react accordingly.
Meet up
If a potential customer sounds keen, arrange a time and place to meet that’s
convenient for them so you can show them the product or explain more about
your service. Be both professional and friendly, they’re equally important
characteristics when making a sale. If the customer agrees the deal, bring
the meeting to a fairly speedy end. Your job is done – for now. It’s time to
head home and begin work on delivering on the promises you have made to
them.
Make some noise
Once you’ve made your first sale – shout about it. If your new customer or
client agrees, include them in a press release or write about them on your
website or blog, so other potential customers can see that you’re well and
truly in business.
Emma Jones is the founder of online home business company Enterprise Nation
(www.enterprisenation.com)
and author of Spare Room Start Up – how to start a business from home.
