Just the other day, we were wrapping up a new business presentation when the prospect looked me in the eyes and said, “So, tell me why we should hire your firm.”
Now, in the early days when Peppercom was chasing anything that wasn't nailed down, I might have responded with any one of the following retorts:
– “Well, I believe we've demonstrated the right mix of strategy, creativity, responsiveness and results needed to take you to the next level.”
or…
– “Well, I think we've shown a real passion for your business today and presented a team that has been through the wars together. I know we'd hit the ground running on day one.”
or…
– “Well, I don't think you'll find another firm with the depth of category expertise reflected by the team you're meeting with today. I'll bet that, collectively, we have more than 150 years of experience in helping brands looking to attract toe fungus sufferers.”
But, that was then and this is now.
The older I get, the more I've grasped the amazing similarities between courtship and new business development. And, that goes for both prospective and existing clients (I'll address the latter in a nanosecond).
So, getting back to the most recent prospect's query, I sighed and said, “I'm not sure you SHOULD hire us. Asking us a question like that after we've demonstrated our experience, thinking and passion tells me you're looking for a vendor and not a partner. If I'm wrong, we'd be delighted to continue the conversation.”
That line always stops a prospect in her tracks (by either pissing her off completely or impressing her in ways no other firm has). I've found it's also a great way to pre-qualify a prospect and see if they really ARE looking for a relationship as opposed to just another order-taker.
Getting back to using what I'd call a great pick-up line with clients, I've found over the years that clients HATE being fired. They hate hearing the 'It's not you, it's us' line and immediately promise to behave better, pay their bills faster and lighten up on the over-servicing demands.
In today's economy, it's a dicey proposition to suggest PR firms play hard to get with prospects and clients.
But, trust me, it works just as well in business as it does in dating.
'So, I have to tell you I love your eyes. Do you come here often?'
This is classic Ed Moed baiting. Let’s see if he reads your comments, Peter, and chooses to engage. If so, duck and cover.
I actually meant that as a compliment to Ed; his excellent sales skills can make such a cheesy line work. But mentor? I don’t know. Maybe in in how to scarf down a unlimited buffet in record time…
Ouch, going after your former mentor in a public setting, GoToPEgel? That’s risky business.
“If I told you that you had a terrific body, would you hold it against me?”
Hey, I pretty sure it worked for Ed Moed once or twice.
Thanks Jimmy. I like the match.com for businesses idea. Keep ‘em coming.
you nailed it, Rep. someone should build a match.com of sorts for businesses and firms that want to continue the vendor/client game verses building a true partnership together.
enjoy your lunch…you’ve earned it.