Threading shortcut- When threading a needle don't bother to run the thread throćugh the bottom of the presser foot. The needle will do that for you with the first stitch! DO pass the thread through the thread guide if your machine has one- this helps guide the thread into the groove in the front of the needle and can alleiviate looping problems.
Poastcards are a cost effectve alternative to an expensive brochure. They can be run four at a time on a standard 8.5 x 11 sheet and trimmed to a post card size. Use a database or word processing program to create your own mailing labels. Browse the yellow pages or a business directory to focus on one group or type of business at a time and your direct the content of your mailing to each group. Follow the mailing with a personal call. Below is an example of a postcard mailing to local schools
Pick one or two industries (Landscaping, Electrical contractors, etc.) and call each one in your yellow pages. Statistically the best days to cold call are Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday. Don't call on Monday or Friday! Keep good notes for each call so you know how to proceed with the next call. Good luck and don't be scared. I always have butterflies in my stomach when I'm doing it, but I've gotten some great customers out of it. Set aside an hour or two every week and just blitz! The average is for me is every 20-25 calls I reap one. My hubby, the sales guru, says this is a very high return, and not typical. Must be my winning personality, or more likely just dumb luck! So, keep calling, and don't take it personally or become discouraged when they say no. There's one out there that will say yes!
Speak in a normal conversational way, not like you a reading off a paper.
(Opening:)
Hi, this is (Donna) from (A Stitch Beyond Custom Embroidery) here in Ellington. We're calling other business in town (our area) to let them know about our Fall discount on embroidered shirts and hats. Do you currently have logo apparel for your company?
(Response:)
YES -What type of logo apparel are you currently buying? Well, we would love to be your supplier. We're a local company here in Ellington, and are offering a 10% discount on all first time orders. If you are interested I'd be happy to send some information. Who in your company makes the buying decision for your hats and shirts? If I could have your address and the contact person, I'll get that information right out to you.
No - Well some of the benefits to wearing your company name is that it gives you a much more professional image and makes you a walking advertisement for your company. We're offering a 10% discount on all first time orders. Could we send you some information? Who would make the buying decision on shirts and hats? All right, if you could give me your address I'll get that information right out to you.
(Opening:)
Hi, this is (Donna) from (A Stitch Beyond Custom Embroidery) in Ellington. About a week ago we sent you a catalog, and I'm just checking to make sure you received it.
(Answer: )
Yes: That's great! Have you had a chance to look through the catalog?
Yes: What type of items were you interested in? I'd be happy to give you a quote for any of those items embroidered with your logo. Do you currently have a logo or would you like me to work one up for you? As I mentioned before, we are offering a 10% discount on your first order!
No: No problem, I'll give you a call in about a week and hopefully by then you'll have had a chance to browse through it. As I had mentioned before, we are offering a 10% discount on your first order. I'll check back with you next week, have a great day!
Didn't receive the catalog: Really? It should have been there by now. I'll check back with you in a couple of days. If you still haven't received it I'll send you out a new one.
Not Interested: Well, thank you for your time and please keep
our catalog on file in case you ever do have the need for embroidered apparel.
Have a great day!
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imagineedles inc.
Belleville, IL 62223 (618) 277-8844 Toll Free (US, USVI, PR) 800-593-5393
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