[realfan87]

Hey guys. I'm currently planning on taking my two medical supply businesses from internet only to selling to local doctors offices. Online sales have been pretty steady, but I'm eager to take it to the next level and sell locally. The question is, I don't really have any sales experience to professional offices, so I'm curious as to how to come off as someone who offers a good service at good prices instead of a pushy soliciting salesman. Should I ask to speak to the director of sales on the phone, or should I instead make a personal visit? Any help is appreciated [yes]

[SobiquYo]

Personally id just make some sort of a folder with brochures on exactly what you do or sell, along with that ask to speak to manager/owner of the place you go to hand it to him/her, give the person a brief overview of what you are seeing him/her for and give that person a business card. If they are interested they will call you.

[realfan87]

Personally id just make some sort of a folder with brochures on exactly what you do or sell, along with that ask to speak to manager/owner of the place you go to hand it to him/her, give the person a brief overview of what you are seeing him/her for and give that person a business card. If they are interested they will call you.

That's a good idea. So with your method, you'd recommend calling them and arranging an appointment to meet up with them in person?

[mirvokrug]

That's a good idea. So with your method, you'd recommend calling them and arranging an appointment to meet up with them in person?

Definitely. I think that's what separates the approach from solicitation.

[SobiquYo]

That's a good idea. So with your method, you'd recommend calling them and arranging an appointment to meet up with them in person?

yup. And make it quick, maybe a 10-15 min slot max, these people dont have time. Time is money.

[realfan87]

Great advice guys, thanks [yes]

[iuopyra]

I just want to add to what they said.

I think it would feel "cheap" to just randomly stop by and talk to somebody. That would be a bit cheesy.

I know at my previous job when people just stopped by the store trying to sell us something I wanted nothing to do with it. Besides, it is really annoying to be in the middle of something, or just bad timing because of a stressful day, then have to stop and listen to a sales pitch.

Timing is critical and a QUICK phone call would be the best answer. Actually, you may want to get together a very proffessional looking ensamble and mail it then wait on a call...not sure if the fact that you have addresses would raise an eyebrow or not though.

Oh, and try NOT to sound like a salesman!!! As crazy as that sounds. I used to sell a lot better when I didn't give that salesperson approach. It's best to be personable and honest.

Good luck!

Oh, and previous customer satisfaction is a great thing to bring up(reputation). That and how successful your online side of the business is, not financially but in a reputation perspective.