Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/78617
Make sure you have your business cards with you at all times. There's nothing worse than someone wanting to support your business and you not having the resources. valuable time. Make a list of what the most important points are, and begin with your full name. Rehearse your speech and time it so you know you are within the allotted window. Sometimes people do something unique like a magic trick or a rap so they stand out. Know your audience. If you choose these gimmicks, and if it's your first time visiting a certain group, play it straight until you gauge what might be accepted and what might look unprofessional. A chamber of commerce breakfast mixer I frequented was known for its outrageously creative elevator speeches, with people employing music, props, and special effects. For an October meeting, we were encouraged to wear a costume. I wore an old cheerleader outfit, a blond wig, and did a cheer about massage. It was a hit. I won the creativity contest and got some business out of it, too. Another creative option is to work with the timing. If you realize they use a bell or buzzer to end your intro, incorporate that into your speech. For example, I was at an event where they forgot the bell and were just having the timing person say "Stop." I changed my elevator speech around in my head and planned it so the "Stop" worked in my favor, timing it so that my last line was, "Give me a call if you'd like your pain to…" When the man said "Stop," everyone laughed. If the environment is filled with humor and creativity—and you are good at and comfortable with them—use them! KEEP THE MOMENTUM You've done your effective elevator speech and people are clamoring to hear more about your business. Now is the time to capitalize on your momentum. Make sure you have your business cards with you at all times. There's nothing worse than someone wanting to support your business and you not having the resources. Your card should have your name and business name, your credentials and specialties, and your contact information. An address isn't necessary, but you should have a phone number, website, or email address. I encourage all of you to have a website—it's so affordable, easy, and vital to your business. Even if it is just one page about what you specialize in, a photo or two, your hours, and your contact information, put one together. Utilizing ABMP's easy (and free to members) website builder will allow you to create an appealing, fully functional website in no time. Many people have brochures about their services or coupons printed for business events (www.vistaprint.com is what I use, and ABMP members receive a discount). It's a great way to get new business. Business cards aren't only great to hand out, but you can put them up on bulletin boards at local coffee houses and health food stores, or leave them Visit the newly designed ABMP.com. Log in. Explore. Enjoy. 99