Approaching Possible Clients...

[pbaker]

I am new to the windshield repair business and am wondering what is the best way to approach a possible client (used car lot, new car lot, construction company, etc...) ???

When you approach, for instance a new car lot manager, what do you say? Do you just tell them a little bit about windshield repair and how it will benefit them? Do you ask to talk to somone in an office? I am just totally new to this type of business and curiouse on all the different techniques everyone has come up with that work for them.

Thanks!!

[Glasseye]

Welcome aboard pbaker
There are plenty of sites on the internet which will give you advice on how to sell. The key thing is to place yourself in there position and think how you would respond to your sales pitch. First impressions are important so look and feel confident. Emphasise the benefits, don't knock competitors, listen for opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and above all don't let a cool response deter you. Always try and end your meeting with a commitment to a further contact in the near future. I wish you good fortune and perfect repairs.

[Mike Allen]

Glasseye,
Which websites have you used?

[Brent Deines]

New Car Lot: Ask for the Service Manager.

Used Car Lot: Ask for the Owner. If owner is not the operator, ask who is in charge of the prep and maintenance of the vehicles on the lot.

Construction Company: Ask for the fleet maintenance manager.

Always go in person, don't bother trying to call. Always leave business cards, always follow up, and never get discouraged. It is rare that you land a job on your first visit, so be patient and persistent. A box of doughnuts never hurts either, but if you do it once, be prepared to do it again.

[mafsu]

Great advice Brent especially Follow up and Don't get discouraged

This can be hard advice to follow. Many times you will feel that you're wasting your time following up. Keep in mind, you never know what was going on just before you got there. The person you talked to may be too busy at the moment to talk to you or he may have been preoccupied with work while you were there. Most of these jobs are high pressure and they have things coming at them from many different angles at the same time.

I would add Be Yourself when you approach these guys. In the case of car lots the person you are speaking with is either a car salesman or sick of dealing with car salesmen and a high pressure approach will put them off. I know this is contrary to what a lot of sales classes will tell you. Just been my personal experience.

[pbaker]

Thanks for the great tips!