Hypothetical. Just go with me on this one. Let’s just say im some form of Robin Hood, Batman or whatever character Russell Crowe is playing this year type of hero. But, instead of saving people and killings baddies my role is to Development Business.
Glamorous I know.
Now all these characters have a collection of weapon or tools. Batman has a utility Belt, Robin Hood had his Bow and Arrow, while Mr Crowe usually uses a phone or whatever comes to hand.
What I would like to know is, what would be your most valuable weapons/tools to put in your Business Development Utility Belt (or BDUB as I’d like to call it) to help you develop new business?
Here are my favourite tools:
Newsletter:
“EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT”
We now have the power to publish relevant content and deliver it to an engaged audience. It is an excellent weapon to keep your network engaged and to build your following. Keep them up to date with industry news, tips and offers.
Cold Calling:
To borrow a quote from Anchorman “They've done studies, you know. 60% of the time it works, every time.” These stats may not directly relate to cold calling. But, what I’m trying to say in a humorous fashion is, it really is a numbers game. It may not be the most glamorous part of the job. But you gotta do what you gotta do. Making those dials works.
Networking:
I’m not sure how this one will actually fit into a belt, but it is the oldest trick in the book. And as it is a book it should fit nicely. You have to get your name and your face out there. Go to industry events, training, shindigs, basically anywhere you are going to be able to meet and greet those in your industry. Always have your business card on hand. You never know when these people might need your service.
Google:
Definitely the shiniest and newest weapon in your utility belt. It may scare off some of the old school types but it works, simple as that. Over the last 6 months we have ascertained a high number of leads by advertising on Adwords and ensuring that we rank highly in keyword searches. You have to go where your customers are and we all know that they are online and do their searching via Google.
With these tools in your BDUB you should be on the right path to drumming up and developing new business. However, I’m not so sure they will help you keep the Joker, Catwomen, the Sheriff of Nottingham and Russel Crowe at bay.
Please tell me below in the comment section what your most valuable tools are?
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