Sales/Marketing Idea - Engraving Etc. Forum

<body> <h1>Full Version: <a href="https://www.engravingetc.org:443/archive/index.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.1">Sales/Marketing Idea</a></h1><a name="a489_1"></a><p><b>From: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.1">#1</a>]<br /> 13 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: ALL</b></p> <p>Hello all!</p> <p>I came up with an idea today and couldn't wait to share and get your feedback. Plus, if it's a really good idea I hope it will work for you - I'm happy to give back to the board that has been SO helpful to me!</p> <p>Being a new business owner I know how important it is to network and go out and talk to people but I really hate the thought of being a salesperson. (Even though so far the merchandise sells itself and it hasn't been as hard as I thought.) I want to specialize in laser etched photographs and would really like to work out some wholesale deals with local photographers. So, rather than trying the cold call approach introducing my business yada, yada, yada...I found a different angle to try.</p> <p>I'm thinking of sending the following letter to local photographers:</p> <p>***</p> <p>Dear Photographer:</p> <p>My name is Laura DeMeyer and I am an account manager with Etched in Time Engraving. The reason IÃƒÆ’Ã†â€™Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…Â¡Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â¬ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…Â¾Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â¢m contacting you is because we specialize in laser etched photographs and we get a lot of requests to use professional photos. Since we require a signed release from the photographer, we are trying to save time (especially with the holiday season upon us) by contacting photographers for permission ahead of time.</p> <p>To show our appreciation for helping us better serve our customers, Etched in Time Engraving is offering a 5% commission to photographers who sign and return the enclosed general release form giving us permission to process orders for customers who submit photos which were taken by the photographer. There is no further effort required on your part ÃƒÆ’Ã†â€™Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…Â¡Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â¬ÃƒÆ’Ã‚Â¢ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚Â¬Ãƒâ€¦Ã¢â‚¬Å“ the release form will be kept on file and all sales will be tracked. You will receive a check in the mail once the commission has reached the $25 minimum for a check to be cut. <i><i>(</i>If you would like to earn a larger commission by offering our products directly to your customers, please contact me for details regarding our wholesale arrangement.) </i></p> <p>Additional information is enclosed showing examples of our product line and how the photos will be used. If you are interested, please sign and return the attached release form. Since we do not have a storefront (we primarily do business via the internet or at arts & craft shows) I would be happy to stop by with more samples to answer questions or to further discuss these opportunities. Simply call (phone number here) e-mail me at (e-mail here)</p> <p>Thank you,</p> <p>Laura DeMeyer</p> <p>***</p> <p>What do you think? I thought it might be an easier way to get my foot in the door.</p> <p>By the way...does anyone have a photographer's general release form? I know I have one somewhere...just haven't found it yet!</p><hr /><a name="a489_2"></a><p><b>From: UncleSteve</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.2">#2</a>]<br /> 13 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.1">#1</a>] 13 Nov 2004</p> <p>I like the idea! Just a couple of minor suggestions. </p> <p>Take out Account Manager! Don't give them any title and you have the flexibility when you meet with them to be anything you need to.</p> <p>One question that immediately hit me is how you would have a customer come to you with a photograph that is marked by the photographer if you don't have a "store front".</p> <p>If you are internet and craft show based, it seems that your customers can come from anywhere and not necessarily your immediate geographical area. How large an area are you thinking of canvassing with the letter?</p><hr /><a name="a489_3"></a><p><b>From: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.3">#3</a>]<br /> 13 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: UncleSteve</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.2">#2</a>] 13 Nov 2004</p> <p>I debated on the title issue a bit, but thought it might be better to distance myself from the "owner" for several reasons, one so the business appears bigger and more established, and also to help keep me from being put on the spot for "big" decisions such as pricing, etc. This way I can say I'll have to check with "the boss" and get back to them. </p> <p>Truthfully, I don't do a lot of internet business yet and have only done a couple local craft shows but I think it sounds better to tell prospects I'm with an internet based business with a workshop in Colona, IL rather than saying I run the company from my basement. </p> <p>I intend to only contact local photographers in my general area with this particular letter.</p> <p>(Although, most people ask so many questions about the business when we're face to face I end up telling them how things really are!) </p><hr /><a name="a489_4"></a><p><b>From: MIKEY (JADEPUTTERS)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.4">#4</a>]<br /> 14 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.1">#1</a>] 14 Nov 2004</p> Laura, If you don't mind me asking, do you do a good business? I am in the midst of doing the same thing in the Wyoming/Colorad area. I think there is some real potential. I also just attended a laser seminar sponsored by a couple of suppliers and a major laser manufacturer and this topic came up. One point that was made was that on some occations it may be nessesary to push the responsibility for obtaining permission onto the customer. They may have to either bring you a signed release form from the photographer or have them sign saying they have permission to use the photo's. It's a grey area and one you should avoid but at least you will be covered. Email me if you want to share ideas. Mike Picture It In Stone mschulte@bresnan.net<hr /><a name="a489_5"></a><p><b>From: John (ICTJOHN)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.5">#5</a>]<br /> 15 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.1">#1</a>] 15 Nov 2004</p> <p>I really think the personal phone call - or even better a personal visit would end up with a better response. I get sooooo many un-solicited letters in the mail, sometimes I look at the address & pitch them and the others, I read 1 paragraph and pitch them. </p> <p>So if you can, practice what you want to say and even come up with all scenarios to over come their doubts and take a sample of your completed product, it will sell itself.</p> <p>Let us know which way you go and your results.</p> <p>Good luck.</p> <hr /><a name="a489_6"></a><p><b>From: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.6">#6</a>]<br /> 16 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: John (ICTJOHN)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.5">#5</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> <p>You're probably right so I took a deep breath today and made my first (soft) sales calls. I would like to visit in person but thought I should try the phone first - it's quicker and less expensive. </p> <p>So far so good! One photographer was very greatful that we are concerned with copyright issues and another was very interested in the products. Most were interested in hearing more since I mentioned a commission, one was a bit skeptical and requested everything written out on letterhead (which I have ready to mail tomorrow) and another all but hung up on me after interrupting me before I got to the point where they realize I'm not a telemarketer!</p> <p>So, I feel much better about making more calls tomorrow and in the future...got a little more than half the photographer yellow page listings to finish with this marketing blitz! </p><hr /><a name="a489_7"></a><p><b>From: John (ICTJOHN)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.7">#7</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.6">#6</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> <p>Good Job!</p> <p>Now when you are finished with YOUR yellow pages, you are most welcome to market for me as I hate to do that just as much as you!<br /> (this forum is where I can say "do as I say, not as I do!) anyway maybe your success will motivate one of us to get up and make that call!</p> <p>You never know what is waiting right around the corner, maybe that "Dream Job".</p> <p> </p> <hr /><a name="a489_8"></a><p><b>From: Engravin' Dave (DATAKES)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.8">#8</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Laura (ELLEMD628)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.1">#1</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> Laura, You have already figured out the solution to your dilemma. You said yourself that so far the products have sold themselves. That is the key. Invest your time in creating samples, samples and more samples. Include your potential client's name or logo on the sample whenever possible. There is something about seeing their company's name or logo on a product that makes it become your own. Why do you think the promotional pen companies send out sample pens with company names on them? You should mail the samples with an introductory letter. Make sure your letter is an easy read, using bullet points, or it will not get read in many cases. You have many good bullet points you can pull out of your proposed letter. With the process mentioned above, you have now opened the door for a follow-up phone call or visit. You will know immediately if the prospect has any interest at all and will have saved yourself much time. Time is money in our business. <hr /><a name="a489_9"></a><p><b>From: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.9">#9</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Engravin' Dave (DATAKES)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.8">#8</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> <p>I agree that a hard, working sample is a great sales tool, but, PENS? I gotta tell ya...over the years I have recieved 100's of unsolicitated pens...to the point that I would feel the envelope of an obvious "junk mail" and if I felt a pen in there, I would grasp the pen, tear it out, write a line with it and if I liked the way it wrote, I kept it...if not...in the trash with the rest of the material! Hurts less to lose the pen to a customer when you have nothing invested.</p> <p>It is important, in my opinion, to come up with something new and creative. I don't know what that is but it has to be out there. I just don't think pens at any price are an attractive foot in the door item anymore. I do believe that quality pens are great awards, gifts, or items to hand a prospective client in person. They have to be a quality writing instument though...if I don't like the way it glides on the paper...out it goes.</p> <p>I'm working on a new item that may be a perfect item to get ones attention...just not sure I can bring it to market at a low enough price.</p> <p>Doug</p> <hr /><a name="a489_10"></a><p><b>From: Engravin' Dave (DATAKES)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.10">#10</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.9">#9</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> <p>Doug,</p> <p>You misinterpreted my post. I in no way would waste my time with a promotional pen. I was using the example of the high-volume pen distributors who market their product through the mailing of personalized samples. Many companies have been quite successful with this marketing tactic.</p> <p>I was recommending that she produce some good samples on substrates that will display her photo engraving capabilities. Mailing these out to prospects will open the door to further, more comfortable conversations with them.</p> <hr /><a name="a489_11"></a><p><b>From: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.11">#11</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Engravin' Dave (DATAKES)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.10">#10</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> <p>Glad to hear that I misunderstood what I thought I had read! </p> <p>Now back to work on that perfect giveaway product! :-)</p> <p>Doug</p> <hr /><a name="a489_12"></a><p><b>From: UncleSteve</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.12">#12</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.11">#11</a>] 17 Nov 2004</p> <p>Perfect self-promo?</p> <p>An engraved, round disk! On one side it says "TUIT" and on the other side it says "You said you would try our service when you got one so......"</p> <p>About the size and weight of a silver dollar so it can be used as a small paper weight on the prospects desk.</p><hr /><a name="a489_13"></a><p><b>From: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.13">#13</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: UncleSteve</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.12">#12</a>] 18 Nov 2004</p> <p>Interesting Unc...I was given one at a show in California that I attended this summer by a customer/friend....still in my pocket. Not heavy enuf to be a paperweight, but I pull it out and look at it frequently.</p> <p>Doug</p> <hr /><a name="a489_14"></a><p><b>From: Dee (DEENA-ONLY)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.14">#14</a>]<br /> 17 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.9">#9</a>] 18 Nov 2004</p> <p>Doug,<br /> There was a discussion on the board awhile back about letting the customer decide if the price is too high. If you have the time and don't have to invest a great deal of money work on that product. You may be surprised.</p> <p>Dee</p><hr /><a name="a489_15"></a><p><b>From: Doug (JDOUG5170)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.15">#15</a>]<br /> 18 Nov 2004<br /><b>To: Dee (DEENA-ONLY)</b> [<a href="lmessages.php?webtag=EE&msg=489.14">#14</a>] 23 Nov 2004</p> <p>Dee, I hear you.</p> <p>The sad thing is, I've had 100 sitting, waiting to get into the finish room!</p> <p><br /> Doug</p> <hr /><h4><a href="lthread_list.php?webtag=EE">Back to thread list</a> | <a href="llogout.php?webtag=EE">Login</a></h4> <h6>© 2026 <a href="http://www.beehiveforum.net/" target="_blank">Project Beehive Forum</a></h6> </body>