Contacting Commercial Accounts

[kc2006]

Well everything is in line for my commercial advertising. It took longer then I expected to get the brochures ready but they're done and I have started a list of accounts I'd like to speak with. The list is still small, about 50 businesses but whenever I see places as I'm out driving I make a note of them.

My question is. Whats, in your opinions, the best way to contact these businesses?

I think the smaller businesses, ones in industrial parks, would be fine to just walk in and ask to speak with someone about the property maintenance. Larger businesses and churches I feel a call first is more appropriate. I don't feel right going into a church or say this one school that I have my eye on and just ask about it. I'd rather call and try to set an appointment up first. My girlfriend who works with marketing says to call them all first, and I'm starting to agree. It seems the few places I have stopped at make it like I'm an inconvenience to them. I just wanted some more opinions on the matter before I go really strong with it. The weather is cooling down so not much else to do, so next week I'll be out talking or calling businesses, commercial selling is in the air! http://www.gophergraphics.com/forum/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[Steve]

Hi kc2006,

Could we see what you created when you get a chance?

I think you have a good plan for the small businesses. As far as the churches and schools. Why not do something like contact them and offer to plant something for free. Come up with a hook. Tie it in with a holiday or a season.

Maybe ask them if you could donate your time to create a fall outdoor decoration? Do it for free and tell the papers about it. Get press attention and look like the good guy. You will then develop a relationship with these people that will allow you to sell them your services.

What's your take on that?

[kc2006]

That would be interesting. And for these larger accounts that are in the 10-15K a year range, I think it would be very worth it to spend a little to get their contract.

Once I figure out how to convert the brochures I'll post them up. They're different, my brother said "I don't want them to be like all the other lawn operations literature, I want the people to think what are they selling when they look at it". Really all they do is explain the company alittle and say to remember us when they're accepting bids. It's really an icebreaker for getting out to commercial accounts.

[Steve]

When you are reaching out to these clients, remember it's a long term goal. You may not win them over right away, but with persistance you will show them you are a great guy and you can do the job.

Don't give up.

Quote[/b] ]"I don't want them to be like all the other lawn operations literature
How do you feel your literature now stands you apart from the competition?

[kc2006]

Well, it's more of a modern art feel to the brochures, I think it shows more class then just a regular old brochure. The whole vibe of the brochure is that my company is not just there to mow the lawn, we're there to better their establishment and have a more professional approach to the business.

[Steve]

When do you start promoting yourself for the fall?

[kc2006]

I'm going to be making calls to the commercial accounts probably starting Monday.

[Steve]

Good work! Let us know your views on it once you start! http://www.gophergraphics.com/forum/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif