Most salespeople have not read even one book about sales…the quintessential intro to every pitch to purchase the newest latest greatest sales manual EVER. Times have changed, sales have changed, so much so that it’s arguably no longer sales. 2020 took that “sales” model and put it through a blender, along with many businesses who employ them. You can no longer succeed on charm and personality.
So rather than lament, I’m finally doing it, taking the dive into earning my small business consulting certification. I’ve been meaning to make this official for a long time, and I’ve found a great program with a stellar organization-AASBC. I’ve always been a champion of small businesses and buying local; it’s time to do something actionable to positively affect the future of small businesses. The backbone of our economy, it is more important than ever to ensures small businesses health going forward. After all, I myself am a micro business, as are many of my friends and colleagues in the lighting industry.
Being directly invested in their success, I’m all in, but in this climate, it is crucial to be able to come to the table with the relevant tools for small business success. I’m excited to share what I learn with my customers and hope I can assist in their success in a meaningful and enduring way. This certification is pretty comprehensive- after earning certification and passing THE TEST, among the skills mastered, I’ll be consulting on the following: formulating business plans, methods of raising capital funds, inventory management methods, formulating profitable and timely open to buy, displays, store flow and aesthetics, social media and marketing plans, hiring and training staff, compiling analysis of current business health, accounting, budgeting and methodology for increasing profits. All of the skills I wish I’d had when I inherited this company, but life gets in the way. It’s practical and creative as each business has unique abilities and challenges.
I love challenges, so stay tuned.