Finding less-than-traditional methods of increasing your sales or finding new customers is easy when you consider community networking. As I mentioned in my Jan/Feb 2002 newsletter, the idea behind community networking is to develop low-cost programs that benefit businesses and groups in your community while helping you find new customers.

Once you’ve decided which businesses to approach, you’re ready to develop a promotion that you can offer to these various companies. The goal of your promotion is twofold: 1) to convince these businesses that your promotion will make them look VERY good in the eyes of their customers while costing them nothing, and 2) to get you more sales.

Approaching the businesses on your list
Here’s how to approach the businesses on your list. First, introduce yourself as a member of your community who has an idea that will help both of you.

Next, show an example of your cross promotion, using actual samples rather than photocopies or layouts. If this is your first promotion, either use a sample from a totally unrelated business or try your promotion with a good friend or customer first. (Call me, I can give you samples.)

Remember to focus on the benefits of your promotion to this business - tell them this is the perfect opportunity for them to show their customers appreciation. If the business agrees to your idea, decide on a date when you will provide the promotion and you’re on your way.