When I was a kid, my grandfather had a library over-flowing with gorgeous books that I was "allowed" to dive into. He too was a HUGE book lover and one of my favorites was a fat, fancy, gold book with an embossed castle on the front. Even just holding it - felt good!

Inside the book were stories. Stories that captured my imagination, made me curious, painted pictures for me that were enthralling. I couldn't wait to find out the ending!

So What Is The Best Kept Secret For Attracting Customers?

Tell a story.

I see it all the time. Especially at networking events or functions where people are introducing themselves and their products or services.

Just a whole lot of BLAH BLAH and nothing that makes me FEEL anything. (guess what - your potential customer feels the exact thing - BOREDOM)

Elevator Pitches Are Stuffy and Outdated

The whole elevator pitch thing has been taken waaaaaaaaaaaay too far! (I know you've run into people who have elevator pitch written all over them!)

To heck with the elevator - when someone is doing that pitch on me - I am looking for the stairs to make my get-away.

You have to be able to describe what you do without sounding like a cheeseball.

Remember - Bored Customers Don't Buy

When was the last time you bought something from someone who bored you to tears? Or they annoyed the heck out of you? (I thought so!)

It just doesn't happen.

You need to be telling A STORY lady!

So What Does A Story Involve?

1. PEOPLE. You're not talking about gadgets and services - you're talking about people. It is conversational, interesting to listen to.

2. CURIOSITY. You lead with something that captures their attention - something that they are struggling with.

3. YOU DON'T SOUND CANNED. Look - there's a difference between being passionate or being an actress. If you're too dramatic, or too flat - people TUNE YOU OUT both ways! Practice your introduction but don't sound like a robot.

4. GET TO THE POINT. What is your claim to fame? This is where you can include a little Zip ie/ My clients on average increase their sales by 50% or more.

5. CALL TO ACTION. People should feel inspired to want more, learn more, go to your website, ask for your card...make them think!

I know you have good stories and testimonials from your clients. You're just not USING THEM. And truly - you're huffing and puffing but not blowing anyone's house down!

By Kim Duke