I ask the question as during the last 2 weeks, I have been to 3 networking events/meetings and listened to ‘Motivational speakers'. All have made their mark and have ideas to offer the employer and the self employed.
The dictionary definition of motivation is ‘stimulate the interest of a person in an activity'. The speakers ranged from all action in a business to a sports coach who may have to contend with egos and a speaker and facilitator who was passionate about the subject and not all action.
So what motivates customers to buy? During the past 4 weeks, comments like ‘thank you' and ‘it's been a pleasure buying from you' motivate me and I know that my efforts have been appreciated.
Sales have not hit the highs of October, although the mix of products together with the different customer industries, is a highlight in its self.
Stacking containers, nest/stacking boxes, and sundry items. A wide range of stainless steel and mild steel racks, dolly's and baking trays. A hotel group telephoned to enquire about gastronorm trays. I have also been in regular contact with a bakery in the north-west and have just received my first enquiry. Perseverance does pay, and I was motivated for the rest of the day after receiving that enquiry.
December is my month for tying up loose ends and planning for 2010. As the British economy is starting to grow slowly, I am putting in place ideas and looking at products which I want to sell next year. It would be very easy to rely on the existing product range, but I need to add to it by increasing the sales to existing markets and adding new markets which will compliment the existing.
So my motivation for 2010 is to expand my customer base, increase product availability and still to give that high standard of service and back up which my customers have come to expect.