Clever Common Sense

It’s easy to get too busy to do the things that you know need doing to build your sales. Or maybe you are out of ideas and willing to try something new. Sometimes genius ideas save money. Think a witty presentation over an expensive one.

Recently I was tapped for a last minute business presentation. After preparing what I would say, I baked a triple batch of homemade brownies. Then, to keep my audience engaged, I wrapped them up and attached a business card with some ribbon. I threw them out during the presentation as “brownie points” when my listeners answered my questions.

It built a lot of excitement. And, when people left, they had my business card associated with something sweet.

I’m not saying that chocolate is right for your business—but small gifts do tend to open doors. And they provide a place to help build your visual reputation. There is a reason that McDonald’s puts their logo on their napkins. You never want to miss an opportunity to build your reputation.

Outside of food gifts, there are other clever things you can do to promote. What about yo-yos for a gym—to encourage people not to Yo-Yo diet, but to workout instead? Anytime you manufacture something a miniature of that is a great gift, like Matchbox Hondas for a car dealer to give away.

Clever common sense is also about making the right business connections. There are people you should know in your field. For example, I’m working with DanGood Landscapes and Lawncare. Another landscape company I know well, Selective Designs, doesn’t do lawncare. So I’ve encouraged them to meet.

Do their businesses overlap—yes—but they can help each other. No business is an island. Even people in your EXACT field are well worth networking with. Wouldn’t you like a warning away from a particular customer or software? It’s good to know people in your affinity group.

Are you sending out a generic Christmas card to your friends and business associates? Then you are wasting the cost of postage. Christmas cards, really anytime cards, are a great way to offer goodwill toward all in a way that will remind everyone what you do. A clever, original design with your signature inside is far better than an old-fashioned gold script with the name of your company. Not gonna cut it.

These are all things I can help you with. I’m Ellie White-Stevens, Marketing Guru. If you need genius ideas that work for your business, and you want to see those ideas to fruition, I’m your Guru. Call 770-301-8706 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .