10 Pearls to Add to Your Strand

Always add more knowledge. Embrace learning.

December 15th is Wear Your Pearls Day and since 2024, we've been working to consistently add to your strand of knowledge, one pearl at a time. Today's post is a collection of 1o quick tips to add to your strand.

1. 

   Your first impression lasts. Make sure the language, through your actual words and your body match the vibe of your recipient or you're likely to never really "connect". Connecting is an important part to the sales process. Individuals listen, believe and remember what's said, when there is a spark of connection.

2. "Value is add" occurs every time you share your natural gifts and talents. Trying to be something your not or providing services that are really outside your wheelhouse distracts from your growth potential.

3. Micro-cues matter. Identifying signals of confusion or skepticism is important. Watch for cues in the form of raised or furrowed brows, pressed lips or side mouth raise and even a smirk or mini smile. These facial cues are all indications you’ve hit or missed on a value point. Learning to identify these cues keeps your message is resonating.

4. Keep in touch. Technology makes it easy to comment on social media when someone in your network is doing something positive in the community or has been acknowledged for their work. Comment. Similarly, take time to read the digital newsletters and articles that come your way. Someone in your network has knowledge to share and spent time to generate that content. Besides, the next time you're face to face, let the know how much you value these short blasts of content and connection.

5. What does your body language convey? When you see yourself in photos and videos- watch. What are your own micro cues that complete your story. Watch and learn.

6. Develop a formula that works for you! Know your value & worth. Identify the traits or commonalities that are reinforced in your best client relationships. "Everyone" is not a good match for business relationships. Yes, we all need to stretch,, but as your business grows make sure the type of client that aligns with your value proposition is clear. If you're identifying great matches in the infancy of your business, those clients will stay and grow right along with you! It's gratifying to see prosperity and growth within your network. Relationships matter.

7. Let go. Let prospects go when it's not a good fit, and let client's go when it's a struggle.

8. What are some of the signs it's time to let go?

   1. Not paying their bills or taking forever to pay!

      1. Many small businesses like ours use QuickBooks. We know how many times you have viewed an invoice, so telling us you did not see it, isn't true.

   2. Do they respect your time? Are the always making last minute requests or adding demands along the way as the project evolves?

   3. Do they respect your talent and knowledge?

      1. I once had someone say, I will do the thinking. Needless to say we don't work together any longer!

      2. Taking your ideas or art without paying, then purchasing somewhere else for the "best deal." Those always hurt, and like an elephant, I don't forget.

9. Use the 1-touch rule for emails. We all get hundreds of emails a day. My inbox segmented by primary - meaning probably a communication related to a client collaboration and promotion. This helps me quickly decide what needs response and allows me to break from routine to read your newsletters or new products flyers. I respond to questions before going on to the next email. If your questions require deeper thought or more detail, I acknowledge your mail and reply letting you know when to expect a more complete response. If I don't respond, I am probably out of the office or involved in meetings, which is typically why our team is copied on project emails, so someone can respond right away.

10. Ask questions that generate deeper conversation- When you dive into the why behind what someone has to share, not only does your relationship develop, but it demonstrates sincerity and respect for their perspective.

As you move towards year-end spent time developing your 2026 plan. A well-crafted plan always makes it easier to arrive at your ideal destination!