Letting go of life as we know it ...

Wednesday, May 07, 2008 17 Comments
Category: selling, Ribbon, retailing, buying, advertising, business, Artistry, Nutrilite, consumer, sales customers

I've been thinking about how I need to let go of my old job responsibilities and embrace my new role. It's not easy to walk away from a warm, familiar, accepting environment into unknown, unchartered territory. For the most part, I like the unknown--it's full of challenge and discovery. But it's bumpy! And I tend to trip once 'n awhile. And on some days, I've been guilty of running back to that familiar welcoming land as soon as someone implies I am trespassing in forbidden territory... like I did yesterday --except I hit the "you can't go back home again just because you want to" point this morning. I realized I can't go back, I can't stay in the middle, and I'm rarin' to move ahead.

In case you missed my earlier post on my new position ... I am now the Consumer-facing Communications Portfolio Manager. I refer to it in writing as C-F CPM or just CFCPM. (I'm big on acronyms in email.) So, first thing this morning, I wrote a couple goodbye and good luck notes, declined a few meetings and accepted some others that are pertinent to my new position. It's time to focus on customers ... your customers now and in the future. It's time to create communications for you to share with customers and potential customers. So, we're thinking about what you need as IBOs to sell products to consumers. (Seems I should ask you!)

What would you like in Health, Beauty, and Ribbon to help you sell to customers? What leave-behinds? What follow-up pieces? Samplers? Emails? What about cross-sell vehicles?

Share your thoughts and suggestions. Please!

 P.S. You know how I love quotes! Here's one that is in tune with my thoughts and feelings today and also fits how things are changing in the business world and with the way we do business:

"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned,
so as to accept the life that is waiting for us."
                                              --Joseph Campbell 

 

 

  

Coming soon! May day, Ribbon Gift Collections, Cinco de Mayo, Mother's Day, more

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 9 Comments
Category: sales, selling, Ribbon, gifts, retailing, customers, sales kit, gifts and incentives

May day is certainly a day to celebrate! It's not only the first day of May, it's the promise of spring, the joy of fresh flowers -- vividly colored tulips, pretty pastel hyacinths, blossoming trees and shrubs. In Europe, this day is filled with festivities complete with dancing around a garlanded pole called a maypole, from which streamers hang. Each dancer holds the end of a streamer, and the dancers wind the streamers into a pattern as they move around the maypole. Some schools still hold May Day festivals with maypole dancing and the selection of a May queen. We did the maypole thing in grade school --  and we also created May Day baskets filled with candy and goodies for someone in our class.

But I'll be honest. Now that I am older and working for Quixtar/Amway, May Day has always been the BIG launch of the new Ribbon Gift Collections ... sure, when I started they were Amagift Albums. (Yes, I have been here for awhile.) And it's still true. The Ribbon Gift Collections for 2008 are available for purchase at Quixtar.com ... and ready to be redeemed by recipients on May 1 at ordermygift.com ... WOO HOO! I'm ready to get selling, aren't you? And May is a great month to get busy selling to family and friends. What's in May?

Cinco de Mayo on May 5. Not really a traditional gift-giving occasion, but why not? Someone special is special any day of the year so why not on Cinco de Mayo? By the way, if you want to read some interesting facts and figures associated with Cinco de Mayo, check out the PR Newwire at forbes.com

Mother's Day on May 11. Mom deserves the best ... any General Gift Collection will make her smile, but if you want to let her know she deserves some sweet relief ... give her two collections! The Ghirardelli(R) Chocolates Collection teamed with the Pamper Album are just what a lovable Mom deserves. Don't forget Stepmoms, Grandmoms, and special women who may not be Mom but they're so marvelous, they deserve something for Mother's Day.

Your favorite granddaughter or son's birthday is in May? We've got Sweet!, the Gift Collection for teens that's just 2G2BT! If you don't text message, let me translate: Too good to be true! Cool stuff in that collection. Word is that kids around 13-16 really love getting Sweet! for birthdays and holidays.

The NEW Klutz(R) Gift Collection. Okay, this does NOT mean it's an album for people who are less than graceful. Seriously. Klutz is the name of the company that was incorporated in 1977 in California by three men who attended Stanford University. They started by selling sidewalk juggling lessons with a trio of bean bags. And then they realized the sky was the limit and decided to write a book on juggling. The books were sold, distributed via bicycle and backpack ... and sales grew from there. (I can just see three juggling college guys in the early 70s on basic bikes tooling around town selling juggling cubes, facepaint, and drawing paper, can't you?)  Today, Klutz how-to books come packaged with their signature tools like juggling cubes, face paints,  and yo yos. All these how-to books and educational toys are for learning, and not just learning through reading. The Klutz Gift Collection is for kids 4 years old and up ... and I tell you they are bound to be popular ... paper planes, stickers, wishing stars, bracelets, drawing books, doodling kits, nail art, stencils, and more. Every time I look at this album, I want to be 10 again and playing with paper dolls.  It's all about learning, creating, enjoying!  So, if someone says, what the heck is a Klutz Collection? You say (being the great salesperson you are!), "It's a wonderful collection of amazing how-to books and crafts for kids 4 and up. Remember how fun it was to draw or juggle or build your own toys when you were growing up? Well, that's what this kid collection is all about!

Armed Forces Day on May 17. Need I say more?  This is the day to thank our military members for all they do in patriotic service for our country as suggested by Harry Truman. Every military member you know deserves a gift  ... in whatever form you want to give that gift, from a prayer, a card, a letter to a gift basket or album.

Memorial Day ... last Monday of May -- May 26. This is a day to remember those who have died in our nation's service. After the Civil war many people began to decorate graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. Now, in the States, it marks the start of summer ... and many family and friends get together for picnics, ball games, and boating.

Graduations, Showers, Weddings ... big in May and June! Don't forget you may have a few gift-giving occasions coming up, but if you do, think of how many friends, family, and neighbors do. That's sales opportunity for you!

Other Ribbon and gift-giving tidbits to know and share while you're selling:

The 2008 Ribbon Gift Collections showcase a preview of selections in the printed albums. Each gift collection is shown in its entirety online and also in the Catalog of Gift Collections. The most updated resource for what's available will always be www.ordermygift.com so be sure to check that out ... and encourage customers and recipients to do the same.

The Sweet! Collection is geared for teens. That's why it's different and why the copy reads like text messaging. If you want to know more about text messaging or get a translation, visit Webpedia's text messaging abbreviations.

Even with the launch of 2008 Gift Collections, your recipients can still redeem their 2007 Gift Collections now. No worries!

Interested in getting started selling Ribbon? You need a new kit each year, so if you haven't already, be sure to order the Ribbon Essential Sales Kit ... or, check out the Ribbon Sales Kit Duo. When it comes to retailiing products, Ribbon Gift Collections are a great place to start.

May all your selling and gift-giving be a pleasure,

sjw

 

  

Clarity through the chaos and confusion

Friday, April 25, 2008 3 Comments

I have faith clarity will come, but right now, life seems confusing and chaotic. Ever feel that way? I remind myself that things will work out-- that it will all come together. It feels like the start of the poem when words keep repeating in my mind and I am not sure what I am feeling, but I know that I am feeling something. The words stay with me, and reappear again and again in my thoughts until I cannot contain them any longer ...they spill on a page and quite often, succintly express how I feel. Something I couldn't grasp or express before is put into words in the form of a poem. Other times, it is a journal entry. For me, writing is how I make sense of chaos and confusion -- it's where I find calm. This is essential for success in life ... at work, with family, with friends. No wait, it sounds as if I am recommending writing to all. Not true. BUT, I do think we all need some way to get in touch with our feelings-- find focus, strength, and calm when things get chaotic and confusing.

Currently, things are changing in the business, in the world, and in your lives -- change is everywhere. Change is a necessary part of life. As much as I love it and believe it offers great opportunities to grow and learn--it brings about periods of chaos and confusion that call for us to re-focus and find "our inner peace" amidst the churn. I don't have to have everything neat and orderly (my office demonstrates this), but I if I begin to lose my calm confidence, I know life has become too crazy and it's time to go interior as I like to say.

I seek out words most often: my writing, reading ... inspirational quotes ... poetry ...prayer. I also love music, museums, and movies. Total immersion into something else helps me look at a situation or circumstances in my life differently. Often helps me find a solution ... discover clarity as I wade through the chaos, sort out things. These are all ways I cope and make sense of the word so I can be productive and successful at work and in my personal life. Not sure this works for everyone, but it does for me.

What do you do to cope? to make sense of the confusion? to find solutions? to keep selling and building your business?

Many of you have told us you find inspiration in quotes or music or prayer. Is this also how you relieve stress? Find peace? Please share your thoughts on coping strategies/tactics/skills. We can learn from each other.

Peace,

sjw

 

  

Customer service makes the difference

Thursday, April 17, 2008 3 Comments
Category: sales, selling, retailing, customers, business, jewelry, consumer

I have just returned from vacation. Spent a few days in Naples, Florida visiting my mother. She's 82, going on 39. If I have half the energy and positive attitude she has when I am in my 80s, I will be fortunate. She's a great example of how positive attitude and self care can make a huge difference in quality of life. But, that's not really what I want to talk about today ... well, maybe indirectly, since positive attitude should be part of customer service.

During my travels, I encountered every level of customer service imaginable, including none whatsoever. And I certainly experienced inconsistency and lack of knowledge between store and airline locations of the same brand/business. For instance, the airlines. Due to mechanical problems, my flight was cancelled. The airlines personnel at Gerald R. Ford Airport handled it efficiently although I wasn't thrilled about going back home with my suitcase, only to have to return at 4 a.m. in the morning. But they got me on the next flight through Detroit to Fort Myers ... and they made sure I had a voucher for coffee and cookies while I waited to hear whether the flight was just delayed or cancelled. When I left Florida, the airlines personnel at the checkout counter were more interested in discussing the big merger than helping me with my bag. They weren't unfriendly, but they sure didn't make me feel important! The pilot on the flight made up for it. I felt like he was someone I knew personally and that getting me back to Michigan safely without bumps or delays was his primary goal. I liked that he spoke to us a few times during the flight. It made me feel more comfortable.

While in Florida, I shopped. (Imagine that!) There's a women's store that's actually headquartered in Fort Myers. It has three Naples locations. I visited all three while I was there. Same store, nearly the same merchandise but a totally different feel to each store. The type of clothing and jewelry I bought at each store matched the level of warmth and service I received at each. The store I purchased over $200 of clothing at was the store where as soon as I had the jacket in my hands, a salesperson was there to tell me the jacket was new and there were matching pants that ran long so they'd probably fit me. Once I tried on the outfit, every salesperson in the store got involved. Oh, it looks great. They had me try on two different sizes of pants to make sure I had the perfect fit. They looked up the outfit in the catalog to find out which camisole was designed to go with the jacket. They searched the store for the matching necklace I wanted ... and when they realized they didn't have it, they called another store and found it for me. Even some of the customers tryinig on clothes remarked on the outfit. I felt good. I felt important. I bought the outfit ... and guess what? The salesperson who checked me out noticed I had a catalog coupon in my purse. She didn't ask for it -- she just automatically deducted the $25. Sure, I am a "member" of their loyal customer program, but they didn't know that until I checked out. The sales team worked together to sell, have some fun, make their customer feel important. It was pleasurable-no pressure, just plain fun. No wonder so many women were carrying shopping bags from this store around the mall. They clearly knew how to sell and have a good time doing it.

Next, I went to pick up my necklace at a nearby location in another shopping area. Much quieter yet the atmosphere was inviting. I looked at a few things, but the salesperson stuck too close to me. I felt "watched" and I began to feel some pressure -- so I bought the necklace and left.

Later during my stay in Naples, I visited the downtown location of this store. Not one salesperson acknowledged me although I believe they knew I was in the store. I felt invisible. I looked at a few things and considered trying on a couple jackets but I didn't. The desire to leave seemed more powerful than the desire to try on a few things. I obviously did not appear to be a worthwhile prospect.

Three stores. Same company. Three entirely different experiences.

Good service makes a huge difference when it comes to customer experience ... and a favorable customer experience makes or breaks a sale!

 

  

Sales pitch on poetry

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 2 Comments
Category: sales, selling, inspiration, passion, blogging, blog

April is National Poetry Month. A time to celebrate words and all the many ways you can create poetry to stir emotions, convey a message, entertain, delight, inspire, intrigue--and much more. I happen to be passionate about poetry. To say so much with so few words is an art I admire. I don't mean greeting card verses either although some are poetic prose.

This month, I won't attempt to sell everyone in my life on the pleasure of poetry, and I surely don't think I can convince others to write it. BUT, in sharing this short, simple poem with a heartfelt, universal message everyone can relate to., I hope to show you just how powerful words can be -- and possibly, inspire you to use words to comment on this blog, sell your products, sponsor others in the business, compliment someone else, express your love, reach out to someone in need. Words are a tool for communication. And they are important in sales and in your business ... and in life.

DREAMS

by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams,

For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

(From The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes published by Alfred A. Knopf/Vintage. Copyright © 1994 by The Estate of Langston Hughes.)

To learn more about National Poetry Month, visit www.poets.org from the Academy of American Poets.

May April be filled with poetry and possibilities for you.

sjw

 

  

Bad gifts don't have to happen to good people

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 18 Comments
Category: sales, customer, Ribbon, gifts, retailing, incentives, customers, sales kit, products, gifts and incentives, consumer

That's the beauty of the Ribbon Gift Collections. The newest assortment of General and Specialty Collections make gift giving the pleasure it ought to be, no matter what the occasion (even Groundhog Day!), no matter who the recipient (even a grumpy co-worker who needs an uplift!), no matter what the budget (people give gifts even when money is tight!.)

So, what kind of gifts do you find in Ribbon that people like you and me might be interested in buying, giving, and, of course, SELLING to other people like you and me.? Electronics, housewares, home decor, bath and body, food, candy, sporting goods, educational toys, and more.

The least expensive General Gift Collection called Variety is full of brand-name  items that make sense for many. That's probably why it's the most popular ... it's affordable, has a higher perceived value than its retail price, and it has lots of brand-name items. This year's Variety Collections features brands like Everlast, Conair, and Rampage. One of my faves to give is Pamper. I've sold several (and given many) I Do! Gift Collections. You can't go wrong with brand-name items from Cuisinart, Coleman, Fossil, and Samsonite. Browsing through the Klutz Collection, I see some cool crafts and kits for kids. I expect you'll have no problem selling this one, since you've been asking for a Gift Collection for kids. Hope this is a hit. All in all, as I browse through the new Catalog of Gift Collections with my sales hat on, I see loads of sales potential. But how the heck do IBOs learn how to sell Ribbon?

I have ideas! We have sales materials for you! We have QU training! We have support! You have the gusto and the guts to get out there and make a profit.

Ribbon Essential Sales Kit (AD-1600). Gotta have it NOW. Don't wait another minute.

Ribbon Expansion Sales Kit (40-0854). If you're in the Business to Business (B2B ) sales arena, make this your business ... NO, wait!! Make THIS your business:

Get the Ribbon Sales Kit Duo (40-0858). SAVE $15. You can SELL well when you h ave the tools to learn, the samples to share, the smarts to know your product and prepare ahead of time for the sales conversation. The Ribbon Sales Kit Duo can help with that.

You save 20% off the cost of purchasing the kits separately, plus you get everything you need to sell to virtually everyone --- from the couple who lives next door who have a zillion relatives to the small businesses you frequent often-maybe daily! For instance, what does the owner of the hair salon or barber shop you use do for his or her employees for the holidays? or for awards? or how does he or she thank loyal customers? Still in touch with the realtor who sold you your house or condo? Did the realtor give you a gift at closing? And what about the auto dealer, day care center, credit union? The list goes on and on and on.

So, why am I so revved up about Ribbon these days?

The 2008 Ribbon Sales Kits and related materials launch this week; the exciting new Gift Collections become available on May 1. While you're waiting for your Sales Kits to arrive; practice, prepare, and PRINT!

Downloadable PDFs you can print and share on sales calls to family and friends ... and to small businesses -- are now available at Quixtar.com .... they're specifically designed for to use with CUSTOMERS.

Here's a couple CUSTOMER-FOCUSED fliers I especially like, and yes, I did write them, but that's beside the point! (smile here, please)

HOW IT WORKS Flier -- one-page explanation of Who, What, When, Where with Ribbon!

PRESENTATION Flier -- two-sided, three-fold brochure for businesses that makes it a great leave-behind or even a leave-before, if that's such a term--maybe a teaser?

There is also a CUSTOMER PRESENTATION CD featuring video clips on how Ribbon works for consumers and for businesses. This comes in the Essential Sales Kit and as a 5-pack (40-0857) for just $10.

Other useful Ribbon PDFs either up now or coming soon to the Ribbon listings in the Resource Center:

Ribbon Facts, FAQs, IBO Success Stories, Customizable Price List, Labels, and more!

So get revved up on Ribbon -- and don't let bad gifts happen to good people. Get out there and sell Ribbon Gift Collections to family, friends, neighbors, and small businesses.

 

P.S. National brands listed above are all registered trademarks.

 

  

In with the new, out with the old

Monday, March 24, 2008 15 Comments
Category: sales, selling, advertising, business, communication, consumer

Yesterday during services, the minister had the young children come up to the front to talk about the meaning of Easter. One little boy said, Easter is about "in with the new, out with the old" and another child close by who was too shy to move to the front murmured to his mother, "oh, that's why it's in spring when things grow." Amazing how kids can say it so simply ... so clearly, so concisely. At the moment, it made me reflect on my own life and the lives of those I love ... and the magic and tragic in my life ... past, present ... and well, who knows what comes tomorrow.

On the way to my dear friend's home for dinner, I thought about work and all the changes ... the transformation of our business into a bolder, bigger, better business. I thought about rebirth and renewal. I thought about the excitement of it and the anxiety and uncertainty of what's ahead. I realized I love change for the thrill and excitement it brings, but also because it calls upon me to believe, to have faith, to go for something with all my might and that's what I am about to do.

I accepted a new position within my department, working on consumer-facing communications. New territory ... new ways of thinking and being. Great timing, given this is the season for "in with the new." 

So, do tell, what's new with you?

  

All tied up in Ribbon

Friday, March 14, 2008 13 Comments
Category: Ribbon, retailing, sales selling, gifts and incentives

For the last few months, my world (and the Ribbon Program team's universe) has been rockin' and rollin' with Ribbon. Ribbon Gift Cards. Ribbon Gift Collections. Ribbon Steps to Success Brochure, Ribbon How it Works flier, Ribbon Presentation Brochure, Ribbon testimonials from IBOs.Ordermygift.com. Ribbon Retailer. Ribbon Order Form. Ribbon FAQs. Ribbon Customer Presentation CD with two great video clips on how Ribbon works ... did you read that? Yes, it's true! These video clips are like commercials that capture the emotional pull of choosing the perfect gift, giving the perfect gift, and receiving the perfect gift. The current CD is selling big time so we can't wait to roll out the new one with the heartwarming, informative video clips. It's coming on April 1, along with the Sales Kits and more merchandising materials.

As excited as I am about all of it, I am also a tad stressed by it. (This is why I work out at the fitness center!) I know mistakes happen and Ribbon is no exception. We discovered one that ended up in print on the back of the Steps brochure. I'm going to tell you about it so you can know ahead of time. It's good news for you. The price list on the back of the brochure lists the Customer Presenation CD 5-pack price as $16. GUESS WHAT? It's really just $10. The guesstimate was $16 originally ... and well, we worked hard to get the price down ... and obviously, it did get all the way down to 5 CDs for $10. But, darn, it still says $16 on the back of the Steps Brochure. 

I woke up last night from a dream of myself tangled up in the purple ribbon and twirling around and around and around with the numbers 5, 10 and 16 woooshing by. It appears the error was on my mind.

I know mistakes happen. Regret does too. I regret missing this error before the brochure printed. I really hate it when imperfections are revealed--I know not everything is perfect or runs perfectly, but hey, Ribbon is about the perfect gift ... shouldn't everything be perfect in the sales materials? Everyone on the team feels badly about the error, including myself. (You probably already figured that out.)

Besides fessing up to the error and asking forgiveness, please note: the  5-pack of Ribbon Customer Presentation CDs (40-0857) coming in April is just $10 regardless of what's printed on the back of the Steps Brochure. May that be rich news for you.

  

Potholes, Personal Accents, and possibilities

Thursday, March 06, 2008 9 Comments
Category: selling, catalogs, retailing, Personal Accents, party plan

On my way to work today, I had a lot on my mind. Sheryl Crow singing about now that she's free, she's free to make a mess of things ... and how I can relate to that!--me swerving the car to miss potholes I think might be there but are now covered with freshly fallen snow... and amusing myself with my new, evergrowing fear of potholes (is there an official phobia for that?) --me pondering on getting stuck in a monstrous pothole and relating that to getting stuck in a rut creatively ... what we could do creatively to make Personal Accents a more profitable product line for IBOs? What's missing? Is the catalog too pretty? not pretty enough? Do we need to have a party plan? A party plan like (yet other direct sellers of jewelry. Should there be more support materials? I remind myself we have a budget and I must adhere to the budget ... but I quickly forget that because, well, I do ... and begin to imagine all the possibilities. I see Personal Accents written in the sky in Cezanne type font, glittering like diamonds (ok, maybe cubic zirconia because PA  jewelry is a shining value) as I drive into the parking lot at Quixtar.

I park the car. Walk briskly (it's cold!) into the building. Glance at my computer and instantly decide I'll write a blog post and ask you what you think. If the sky was the limit and the road straight and clear to success... there were no potholes to dodge, no bumps to worry about, no budget constraints, attitudes were positive, customer pocketbooks were bulging, and everything was coming up pretty near to perfect ... what would you hope would be in our plan for Personal Accents? Even if nothing was perfect or positive, what do you think should be in the plan for Personal Accents?

As always, no promises we can do it all, but we're all "ears" and we love to play with ideas, especially if they'll help IBOs sell at a profit. We're searching for gems!

Be a jewel and send us your ideas.

sjw

 

  

No, no, no ...

Monday, March 03, 2008 5 Comments
Category: sales, selling, retailing

When you hear no, how do you feel? Do you cringe? Back away? Think about giving up? Feel rejected? Consider yourself a failure? Many do. No is powerful in a destructive way. What if someone suggested you Go for NO! What if they told you this itty bitty word had the strength to keep you from meeting your sales goals and quotes  ... from finding new customers, adding on sales to an order, obtaining referrals? Yes, fear of hearing no, fear of being rejected, fear of failure ... it's what stops you from being successful! I read a bo

Andrea Waltz sent me the book, Go for NO!, she wrote with Richard Fenton. It's a quick, entertaining read that shows you how YES is the destination but NO is how you get there--it helps you reprogram the way you think about no. I have to admit, I thought it seemed kind of silly, but I can see that if we avoid no's, we're also avoiding opportunities. If I only went for what I determined would be a yes and only worked to fill my quota or reach a set goal ... I've never go beyond and EXCEED my goals. Suppose I change my thinking and go for 120 NOs this week. If I just keep going ... imagine how many people I will meet, even if they aren't immediate yes's ... think of the contacts I've made ... think of the things I've learned like tenacity and persistence! ... think of how revved up my internal drive becomes to get ahead and consider how proud I feel of myself. Imagine how someday the hundreds of NOs I've achieved over the weeks and months evolves into yes's and more yes's  ... and my productivity increases, my sphere of influence grows, and I become a success ... not just a success, but a ROARING success. Now, imagine this same sensational success for you.

Sound silly? Like I said, it sounded lame to me at first, too. BUT it was a worthwhile read. Inspirational. If you fear rejection and find that you avoid getting told no, check the Go for NO! strategy out at www.goforno.com This site is  about taking the biggest obstacle standing in your way to success and making it an asset ... your greatest asset. There's a blog on the site, too. Don't miss that. You can even get a screensaver that says Go for NO! Nice reminder to be fearless, tenacious, persistent.

And if you do read the book, Go for NO! or hear the authors speak, let me know if it changes your attitude and your productivity. Let me know how it affects you and your success.

So get out there and Go for NO! 

sjw

  

Ribbon gets refreshed for 2008-2009

Tuesday, February 26, 2008 26 Comments
Category: selling, credibility, Ribbon, gifts, incentives, customers, sales kit, products

It's the program designed for retailing and well, you're doing it!  Figures show us you're using the kit, you're promoting the gift cards and albums, and some of you are selling Ribbon Gift Collections to businesses. YOU ROCK! Thank you, thank you, thank you for embracing Ribbon and making it a success. And thank you for providing feedback since it launched to help us refresh the program ... to better meet your needs and your customers' needs. We heard you! I've hinted at a few tweaks in recent blog posts and let you know about the new kids' collection that's launching May 1 with the new program. NOW, I'll tell you more! The good news is that we listened to your comments on Sales Speak, through the RibbonRetailer@quixtar.com email account, via the Learning Lab Partnering Program, and at events like Expos and Achievers. WOW! We got so many great ideas from you guys ... Ribbon is sure to make your business ROCK this coming year.

The 2008-09 Ribbon Program will feature:

-A newly designed Gift Card Carrier that looks and feels like the elegant black tuxedo-striped album envelope. Plus, the back will be cutout so you can read the redemption number on the back of the card.

-You said you wanted the Gift Card in Spanish, too. It will be! We plan to offer more sales materials in Spanish on the site, too, including ...

-A simple How Ribbon Works downloadable PDF (FREE!) to share with customers ... Who? What ? When ? Why? Short and sweet. This How Ribbon Works will appear in many places ... the Steps to Success Brochure in the Kit, the jacket of the Customer CD Presentation, in event fliers, on the web.

-A Ribbon Customer Presentation CD that features How it Works video clips for consumers and for businesses. For those of you who saw these videos at Achievers, you'll be happy to know we ARE including them in the Presentation CD!

-Now there will be two Sales Kits for IBOs (available April 1)-- the Ribbon Essential Kit will include everything you need to get started, including a Customer Presentation CD and a slipcase with all 19 printed albums. The new Ribbon Expansion Kit will include extra samples ... a 5-pack of Catalogs of Gift Collections, a 5-pack of Presentation CDs, a 5-pack of Sample Unique Gift Collection Packs (Card/Album/Envelope), a 50-pack of clear Mylar mailing envelopes. If you buy both kits using the special assigned SKU, you'll save $15.

-By popular demand, introducing the Klutz(R) brand Gift Collection for 4 to 12 year old kids. Games, puzzles, crafts. FUN, FUN, FUN! Great for grandparents to give kids ... perfect for birthday party gifts.

-More flexibility for product changes throughout the  year ... each Gift Collection will showcase items in printed album and feature additional items online, too. This will help us provide the best possible experience for Gift Collection recipients ... better avaiability, less disappointment.

-Ribbon signature order form ... PDF in Resource Center and also three-part form available through Quixtar Brand Support, a Partner Store. Very important form to use for customer purchases. Three-part form provides you with customer receipt. Also find signature Ribbon logo merchandise such as business cards and stationery at Quixtar Brand Support.

-Mailing Envelopes in 50-packs ... choose Clear Mylar or Black Mylar envelopes for albums. The Black is for those of you who said you or your customers wanted to conceal the contents for mailing.

-Ribbon Fast Facts Downloadable PDF available for IBOs who say they need responses to objections about credibility and service of program. Includes facts like when the program began over 30 years ago, number of Gift Collections sold, how much is spent per month on gifts, and more.

BTW, the How to Sell Ribbon training module at Quixtar University is now available! Check it out.

This current Ribbon Program is a huge success because of communication: We asked, you told us. We listened and acted on your suggestions. And then we listened and responded again--and did what we could do that made sense for the business and was within our budget/schedule, etc. Now, let's see how you and your customers respond to the new refreshed and rarin'-to-be-retailed Ribbon Program. (I'm excited and I hope you are, too.)

It's all COMING SOON!  NEW Ribbon Sales Kits available April 1 - Gift Collections available on May 1.
Please keep your feedback coming through Sales Speak or email RibbonRetailer@quixtar.com

  

Wordwise and wanting to learn more

Monday, February 25, 2008 5 Comments
Category: sales, selling, retailing, customers, advertising, branding, communication

This weekend, I ended up at my favorite local bookstore, discovered a book called Words that Work-It's Not What You Say, It's What People Hear by Dr. Frank Luntz. (Available through B&N, your Quixtar Partner Store.) I took the book with me to the cafe, ordered coffee, sat down, and read vrtually the entire book. I couldn't stop.  Luntz has written many political speeches and served as a consultant for major U.S. corporations. He writes about communication clearly and concisely. He writes for and to the audience and this book is a fast, interesting read -- simple and straightforward. Made me think about how important communication in every aspect of life and how we often forget about the audience and what they bring to a message -- like their preconceptions, emotions, experiences. It also made me realize how essential effective messaging is in selling ... not just advertising but one-on-one sales conversations.

Luntz states language is a tool to reach people and that words that work are those that generate practical results. He provides ten rules of successful communication ... and stresses simplicity, brevity, crediblity, and repitition. Here are some brand/coporate slogans that keep it simple yet say a great deal:
Easy as Dell.
The Uncola - 7 up
Snap! Crackle! Pop! - Rice Krispies
i'm lovin' it. - McDonald's
Just do it. - Nike

How 'bout some simple ones that stuck around and proved to be memorable, like:
Avis. We try harder.
Wheaties. Breakfast of Champions.
Plop, plop. Fizz, fizz. Oh, what a relief it is. (nice visual created here, plus you know how many Alka-Seltzer to take for relief)

How 'bout our exclusive brands? Do the taglines keep it simple and stick? Do they resonate with you and your customers?

Nutrilite. Best of nature. Best of science.  
Atmosphere. Pure air. Pure brilliance.
Artistry. True science, true beauty.
Ribbon. The Gift of Choice.
Personal Accents. All the right elements.

I enjoyed the section that talked about novelty and offering something new by redefining something old. Remember VW's "Think Small" campaign which made people think about cars in a new way? Luntz also discusses sound and texture of words and messaging, even if they butcher the English language (ouch). Do you recall Mac's slogan, "Think Different"?  It stuck for me, because I could hear one of my old teachers saying, "Don't you mean think differently, Susan?"

Luntz offers words and phrases for the 21st century in one of the chapters. Among them, you'll find imagine, hassle-free, lifestyle, accountability, innovation, efficient, certified, peace of mind, all-American, and spirituality. JCPenney just launched a brand called American Living. The commercials and ads are everywhere. Did you see them during the Academy Awards?

According to Luntz, the right words can give you the edge in any venture. I agree. So, the right words for your potential customer or customers, can give you the edge in sales.

To find the right words for your customers, you have to jump into their shoes and get comfortable with what they're thinking and what they're feeling in their minds and hearts. I agree with Luntz on this. Not an easy task, but an essential one for sales success. Do you agree?

 

 

  

C'mon everybody, let's do the blog bebop now!

Tuesday, February 19, 2008 36 Comments
Category: sales, selling, blog

It's the happening thing to do when a blog has a birthday. And the Opportunity Zone bday already happened, so hurry and get in rhythm ... deliver the good word, not-so-good word, any word, but be sure it's your word and it has a beat ... I mean the truth. Be it good or bad, awesome or awful - even indiffferent or indecisive. Make your words dance across that little comment box and then click to send. We're all ears here on the other end!

What's this about? The OppZone bloggers want to know what you think, what you want, what you think you want. Seriously. (I know I am being silly, but it's my attempt at getting attention -- and maybe a smile!) The bloggers are meeting on Wednesday (tomorrow!) to look back and see how we began, check out how we've evolved, and then we'll look ahead to see how we can harmonize to make the blogs a more meaningful experience for Quixtar IBOs. I can attend this meeting and give my opinions ... or I can share yours ... or I can share 'em all. That's the beauty of  the blog bop--rhythm and harmony. So, as much as I'd like to see you in person and have you accompany me to the meeting, I know that's not possible. So send your feedback. I will share it. You can count on that!

We, the OppZone bloggers are waiting with anticipation for ideas, suggestions, opinions, and observations. Help us get in tune with you.

C'mon, folks. Be bold and bright and brave -- battle the winter doldrums. Be a part of the Opportunity Zone. Let your voice be heard!

(Have I sold you on particpating yet? :-))

 

  

An event to many, a great sales opportunity for you

Wednesday, February 13, 2008 3 Comments
Category: sales, selling, retailing, event sales

It's true! Beginnning March 1, event sales by IBOs at temporary health and beauty shows and certain sporting events will be allowed. Is that sensational sales news, or what? The first OppZone news on this change, "A NEW RULE TO HELP IBOS SELL MORE PRODUCTS" was posted on Adatudes by Gary VanderVen, January 31.

This is EXCITING news for IBOs ... it's like we've been empowered to make more money by selling products in venues we previously were not permitted to sell at before. Positive change. I like that, don't you?

Picture this: a popular annual 5K run around a small lake in your town invites people to have booths to sell energy bars and drinks that focus on eating healthy and keeping fit. Think you could sell LOTS of XS Energy Drinks, the new (coming in April) Nutrilite Sports Nutrition energy bars and sports drinks? Maybe Trim Advantage protein snack bars would be a hit, too.  So what do you do? 

At least 30 days prior to the event, submit an application to Business Conduct and Rules. If accepted, you'll receive an approval certificate that must be displayed at the booth/event.

A one-day BEAUTY (women's only) Expo in the city convention center encourages local business owners to display their branded products directly related to women's personal care and style-- picture this: a skin care demo using the new Artistry essentials skin care systems OR testers of Artistry skin refinishing ... and to compliment the skin care, a display of Personal Accents jewelry and Personal Accents signature fragrance, Anticipate. What fun! What profit potential! What a great way to meet new people, make friends, gain new customers, create Quixtar-exclusive brand awareness, and best yet ... MAKE MONEY SELLING!

I can see you doing this! Yes, YOU! You're great at making people feel comfortable, you're excellent at starting conversations, you know the beauty products and jewelry well ... and you have a knack for setting up professional and attractive displays. What are you waiting for? March 1 is just around the corner.

Check out your local community/county calendar for possibilities (temporary events) in the coming year:
Health Expo
Nutrition Expo
Health Seminar (e.g. Hotel setting)
Beauty Expo         Bridal Expo
Cosmetologist Expo
High school sporting events
Nascar/Indy Car Booth
Marathons           5K runs
Sports Tournaments (e.g. Soccer, Ice skating)

Wait! To really make this meaningful, memorable and of course, PROFITABLE, you'll need product AND merchandising materials. No problem! Go to Retailing Support in the Resource Center at Quixtar.com. There are scads of things to teach you about product and selling ... and brochures and samplers you can order to provide to booth visitors/event participants/new acquaintances/potential customers/new customers ... WOW! That's a lot of people. Better order plenty of brochures and samples. Might want some Customer Profile Sheets with you to jot down notes. That would be quite handy. Or, if someone gives you a business card, jot down info about them on the back of it. That's my new trick. And remember, they might not buy at the event, but if they gave you contact info, they're definitely a possibility for later sales. Would you agree?

Be sure you have your signature Nutrilite, Artistry, or Personal Accents business cards to give out. You can get those at Quixtar Brand Support in Partner Stores & Services at Quixtar.com AND, don't forget receipts. The IBO Rules of Conduct require that a receipt be provided to each customer at time of sales which includes your name and address and our 180-day Satisfaction Guarantee. You can create a receipt for a customer online ... did you know that? Plus, if a receipt has your contact info on it, that's a good thing in case they have questions or better yet, want to order MORE products.

Stay tuned for more details on the site! There will be a CD-Rom that will give you all the info needed to help you be successful at event sales--display instructions,  downloadable banners and signs, handouts and tent cards for product brands permitted for event sales. Watch for more info on March 1.

And, as posted in Ada-tudes:

We will begin accepting applications for Event Sales March 1.  The application form will be available on quixtar.com or by contacting Customer Support or Rules Administration.  If you have questions, please contact Rules Administration at 616-787-6712  or by email at qbcr.department@quixtar.com. 

So tell me, do you plan to sell at a temporary event this spring or summer?

  

Try, try again ... hang in there ... never give up

Friday, February 08, 2008 7 Comments
Category: sales, selling, retailing, inspiration

It's winter here in Michigan. I mean real winter. Snow. Ice. Wind. More snow. No sunshine. Grey skies. You get the picture. And I am feeling uninspired ... anybody else struggling with selling and sponsoring these days? Anyone else feeling like they're no good at the sales stuff? I am. I wish I had Sunshine in a bottle. I think I could sell that around here! I want to be a good at everything I do ... and that includes being an IBO who sells and sponsors.

I received a quote via email this a.m. Made me think about how this week has gone. And how, each morning, I've had to talk to myself in the mirror to keep going ... through the snow, around the naysayers, and finally, to find and align myself with the doers and believers. Surrounding myself with those who believe in this business and our products helps ... to be with those who actively support me in changing things so we can all sell products. That's why I am reaching out to you-IBOs who read and participate in OPP ZONE.  (Help! :-)

What do you do to keep going when you feel like there are obstacles to sales success or you just need something to rejuvenate you ... inspire you ... motivate you?  Reach out to your upline? Read a book? Attend a seminar? Go shopping? Take a vacation?

Here's the quote:

Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow."Mary Anne Radmacher, American artist

I have lots of ideas and I read lots of books and I write and edit lots of catalogs and pubs and I just can't seem to get enough ... and I like to share them with you through this blog. No doubt about it. But today, I don't want just my ideas. I am aware of those.  I want to learn and grow by hearing your ideas.

Please share your suggestions, stories, tips, and ideas.  Believe me, I'm listening.

  

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