Networking.
For some of you, I'm sure the thought of it makes you cringe.
I get it you just want to do the books and not the marketing.
Well, that's not realistic unless your company is large enough to employ someone else to do it.
We, at Pure Bookkeeping, teach 7 proven marketing strategies that are guaranteed, if applied properly, to attract 5 more clients to your business within weeks.
Networking is one of them.
If you're wondering where to find the right group to meet prospects, here are some ideas.
- Your local Chamber of Commerce
Be sure to locate a network of business owners that meet once a week or once a month and attend every meeting. The focus of networking is to be purposeful -- this is a business, not a social occasion.
At the networking sessions, your aim is just to set up a coffee meeting with a prospect.
You are not trying to get clients at the networking meeting. What you're trying to do is meet with people to find out about their business and let them know about yours.
When you're meeting business owners you'll realize quickly the importance of getting your USP (Unique Selling Point) across in 60 seconds.
As you probably already know, attention spans are short in this Twitter (140 characters or less) era.
So, you want to deliver your message in the most succinct yet interesting way possible.
It'll take practice.
No, not just reading it in your mind.
Stand in front of family or friends and recite it with passion.
When prospects see your energy and hear about your experience, they'll likely want to find out more.
So, here are a few things to include when briefly telling your 60 second story:
- How many years experience you have
- What qualifications you have attained
- Mention if you are a member of a Registered Professional Association
- Mention if you have an office, staff and contractors
Include the benefits of using your services such as:
- Empowered around your finances
Here's a sample script from our Pure Bookkeeping System that was originally meant for our licensees, but you can tailor the tone and content for your specific situation:
I have been bookkeeping for ____ years (include the time you have worked as an employee if you are starting up). I have____education. I have worked in many different industries including___. I am a member of a recognized Professional Association and adhere to its code of professional conduct.
Proven systems are the key to guaranteeing the quality of work. I did my research and decided The Pure Bookkeeping System was the best available. It has been designed by a team of Professional Bookkeepers over 10 years, so as my business grows you can be reassured the work we provide will be of a consistently high standard, so what does that give my clients?
Peace of mind knowing that no matter who does the work I will guarantee the quality. They feel empowered around their finances because of the reports and understanding I give them and they are back in control.
Hopefully, that helps.
If you're not a licensee and are curious about the Pure Bookkeeping System, feel free to click here.
You can also e-mail or call me.
I'd be happy to answer any questions.
As for everyone else, I wish you well as you network your way to success!
Take care,
Michael
