The thing I've noticed most since really attempting a run at my business Hyrax Hype (which I guess I didn't formally announce on here like I said I would) is that I have to do things that I'm not entirely comfortable with. I don't mean that from an ethics standpoint, just things that are outside my typical character. I can see that I will really have to step outside my box to make this work.
The one thing that stands out the most is that I'll probably have to ask people for things. I don't mind asking people for things when they're owed to me, but I really hate calling in favors. However, it seems that to score some early clients I'll probably have to go heavy on the networking route...especially since I don't have any money for traditional advertising methods. I suppose that this is the make or break point for most entrepreneurs; you are either willing to suck it up and do the tasks you don't want to...or you aren't.
For example, there is a local business that I would really like to approach to offer a heavily discounted price because they will be my first client. I think it would be a win win for both parties and yet I keep procrastinating and putting other tasks in the way. Unfortunately for me, networking and sales are two of the hats I will have to wear within this business (especially on the front end, but really as long as the business continues).
Part of the thrill and excitement of being an entrepreneur is getting to wear the multiple hats and deciding what to do when. But I think I've stumbled upon a critical realization; some things just need to be done whether you want to do it or not.
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Brad -
ReplyDeleteI think in a lot of ways you're like me. When we were working with clients, I didn't ever want to approach someone or call in a favor at first. Heck, I didn't even really like taking sales phone calls even if the person was interested and was calling me.
But once you start rolling with some sales and referrals I think you'll start to enjoy it a bit. I was never fully comfortable with it, but I grew to love the feeling of closing a sale, the feeling of seeing a client satisfied, and the feeling of calling a referral who genuinely wants to talk to you.
Or (and just throwing it out there) if it just doesn't feel right after you try, you could try to find a partner with complementary skills to yours. I'm sure you know someone from college with the type of personality that fits sales.
Adam
Hey Brad,
ReplyDeleteI'll send you an email through your site as well, but take a peek at NOTtheBookStore.com. I might be able to use some help, would love to see what we can do.