Led a discussion group last week. Individuals considering entrepreneurial opportunities. Some were looking at franchising, others just announcing their intention and then getting started, either from home or an office. Others were looking for part-time entrepreneurial opportunities. A number were just starting to consider ideas.
Sales: Any discussion that is intended to get another person to do something.
“Selling” can be ideas, concepts, or things. If they want someone to do something they are selling.
4 questions each entrepreneur needs to answer.
-What leadership style are you using now?
-What leadership style are you using now?
Does that style fit your entrepreneurial idea?
Majority had not thought about a leadership style regarding their new business venture.
Leaders who are quiet and soft-spoken will have their style. Decisive bottom line leaders have theirs. Motivations leaders will use different style. Whatever your style, will it work for your entrepreneurial venture? If not how do you need to modify. Do you want to modify? If not look at other entrepreneurial ventures t hat are “more you.”
All business involve managing people. Customers, Guests, the public, B2B, vendors, other businesses, manufacturing companies, etc.How will you manage, motivate and lead employees and customers?
What can you ask or say to immediately gain their undivided attention?
Today’s world you have 30 seconds to gain people’s attention. That used to be standard length for commercials. Now they are shortening to 10 seconds.Who are you going to be selling to?
Who is your customer? Several were unsure who their customer really was.
That’s good! Almost all businesses start with an idea. Then people start expanding and defining the idea. One of first questions to consider: Who are you going to sell to.How do you explain what you want someone to do in 30 seconds?
Employee or customer. Once you have captured your audience you can take longer. Key is getting their undivided attention. Without it, likelihood of successful sale drops like a rock.
Developing your 30 second story is critical.
3 step process to capture your audience in 30 seconds
What are trying to sell? (Or get across.)
Who is your audience.
How does what you are offerring benefit them. (What’s in it for me.)
Whether trying to sell a product, service, concept, idea or convince someone of your political position start with the above 3 steps. If you can’t explain it in 30 seconds, refine your opening.
Struggling with your 3 step process? Schedule a call.
Tom Ferree is the founder of Ferree & Associates and SecureEmploy, organizations focused on helping companies find exceptional talent and helping professionals advance their careers. Since founding Ferree & Associates in 1977, Tom has worked extensively with hospitality companies, executives, and rising leaders across the industry. Through SecureEmploy, he shares practical career strategies, leadership insights, and real-world advice to help professionals grow their careers and help organizations build stronger teams.
