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Send thank you notes. Carry pre-stamped envelopes and cards in your brief case so you can write
notes in a waiting room, on
plane or while having a coffee. Thank customers for business, opportunities and meetings. Thank others for recommending a book, introducing you to a prospect, or hosting a great meeting.
Write notes of congratulations. Pick a time each day for this activity. It might be first thing, last thing, while on hold, waiting for
computer to backup or during breakfast. Read
news. Did you read about a client, colleague or someone you want to meet? Send them a quick note.
Send news releases about your company to
media. Learn how to write one. Build a database of media contacts. Develop a template. Plan to send one out regularly. Look for opportunities and angles and send them out. Don't get upset if every one isn't used. Do it consistently - some of them will be.
Make your cold calling systematic. Write your cold call telephone script. Rehearse it. Improve it. Analyze who your best prospects are. Select those names. Schedule your calling times. Then call. Deliver your script. Then do
next one. At
end of
scheduled time, stop. Don't keep calling just because you feel good. Plan then follow it. There is much less pain that way.
Don't be caught by surprise by voice mail, a gatekeeper or
CEO on
phone. Prepare what you will say to each. Write your script, edit, rehearse then tape yourself. Then improve. They will think you are so clever when you know
right thing to say. Don't count on luck - build that system.
Attend a networking function. Decide your goals for attending. You may want to meet three new people, touch base with two clients, or connect with
CEO. If you know what you want you are more likely to find it. After you achieved your goals you might relax and just socialize. Consider that your reward. All your systems should have checkpoints and rewards - along with penalties.
Do you use a computer? Success with your computer emanates from learning and practising systems. You learn
software, shortcuts and tips. You must develop systems to protect your computer. Backup regularly. Scan for viruses. Use passwords. I guarantee you, deviate from your system of backups and sure enough Murphy will appear to teach you a lesson.
Life is simple. Success is simple. Business is simple. There will be complicated moments, confusing dilemmas, and challenging enigmas. These are meant to test your patience, virtue and self-confidence. Be clear, be persistent, be consistent and practise systems.

© George Torok is co-author of the national bestseller, "Secrets of Power Marketing", Canada's first guide to personal marketing for the non-marketer. He delivers seminars and keynotes to corporations and associations across North America. He can be reached at 800-304-304-1861 For more information or to receive your free marketing tips visit www.Torok.com