I try to answer my emails and return calls...sorry, Kim...haven't stopped to call you! I still do those b/c loans and this as well.
I don't know about the First Aid kits and how well they work. If I were to use them, I'd probably give them away as a "Thank you" gift for referrals.
Ok...pricing: I give a flat rate and then some. I have yet to do a coin collection or baseball cards in a sq ftg situation as this would be "extremely" time consuming...JMO...so I would want to price by the hourly rate. I like the "KISS" theory "Keep It Simple Silly"...I know you thought it stood for something else. Ha!
Kim...use your marketing skills that you obtained as an LO.
So far mine have been based on referrals to referrals. I have only given out a few CD's....I'll go for the annual update. I offer it but it appears to be no biggie to them. Just one less expense.....
I agree w/the non members having access to this message board as people are reading it and downloading "free" software elsewhere. Let's block them...don't think we should be giving them our marketing efforts for free.
Marketing: I love marketing.....there is no given formula to the success other than the drive to succeed.
You need a plan to follow:
Set yourself daily activities that you will do to promote your busines because no matter which way you look at it..it's a number game. Get your name out there on a regular basis over and over again. I really believe that the insurance industry is going to be making a major change in how claims are handled in more detailed than ever before and not to the consumers advantage. The consumer doesn't quite get it...but they will. The more they hear about having an inventory done, it will finally click. It will be a profitable business but in all new business adventures, it takes time, dedication, support, discipline, focus and don't look back....it will be there!
If you have the drive and from what I have read on this board, all of you do...it will work.
Things I have done...given away a few inventories as a "gift" that gave me referrals, put door hangers on doors (did them myself and incorporated my kids to hang them), order the Freebies from Vista Print...from Brochures to post cards. Gave out my business cards while standing in a check out line and explained what the "purpose" was of having an inventory....other people listened, got my cards and I got a couple that way.
People know if you have a real passion for what you do...
I read articles about the insurance industry and email updates to those I have email addresses on but they haven't ordered yet. I keep putting my name out there over and over again. This business has grown from a year ago. I was one of the first ones last year that purchased the software and there is a man who lives in the same small town that I do that is doing well from what I can tell. He has an office now when he was operating out of his home. He saw the opportunity and seized the moment.
They way I look at it...he's planting the seeds for me as well. Well, guess I'll get off my soapbox for awhile....but I know it's hard because the passion is in your heart to make this a successful business as well as the satisfaction of knowing that you have given someone a valuable service.
I will look for some marketing ideas or things that you can do if anyone is interested........ |
