Read this the other day in a marketing publication I subscribe to:

The dealership blames the bad economy for their demise. But I doubt that was the problem. In the time I bought my 4 trucks from them, I never once received a thank you note. Never once received a call to see how I was doing with my vehicle. Never once received an invitation to come in and try one of the new models (my history was to buy a new one every 4 years — would have made sense to start sending me notes at year 3). Never once received an invitation to a VIP reception. Never once received a birthday or anniversary (wedding or purchased date) card. And the list goes on and on.

All the items this gentleman listed are practical marketing and sales strategies.

Instead of your salespeople sitting around twiddling their thumbs and feeling sorry for themselves - why not write a handwritten note? Why not make a call to the client - not to sell them anything, but to simply ensure they are satisfied with their purchase?

A little time spent on these activities will go a long way and help offset the economy we find ourselves in.