How to Sell Yourself

How to Sell Yourself with

Denise Vivaldo author of How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, How to Start a Home-Based Personal Chef Business, and The Food Stylist’s Handbook

Basic Sales Techniques ! Have you ever worked in sales? ! Will you be comfortable promoting yourself?

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 1. Market when you are busy. 2. Have a professional and current head shot. 3. Print on both sides of your business card.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 4.

Create a catchy slogan or logo.

5.

Don’t steal ideas: improve upon them.

6.

Set deadlines for yourself, and be accountable.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 7. Contribute articles to local publications. 8. Publish your own calendar, newsletter or small cookbook. 9. Send handwritten thank-you notes.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips

10. Become a guest speaker at your local city college or business groups. 11. Teach a class that showcases your talent.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips

12. Have an 888 or 800 toll-free number. 13. Have embroidered aprons for your kitchen staff to wear on jobs.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 14. Record a professional voicemail message. 15. Conquer the Chamber of Commerce. 16. Barter, trade or hire a graphic designer.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips

17.

Give interviews on local radio.

18.

Give referral fees.

19.

Have a web page and email. Update web page regularly.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 20. Be easy to contact. Have a cell phone and return calls promptly. 21. Write press releases of parties and classes you’ve taught. Email to industry publications, local newspapers and clients.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 22. Contribute your talents to fund-raising events, making sure local media knows about your involvement. 23. Maintain a current list of excellent references.

Twenty-Five DIY Sales Tips 24. Have a portfolio that is up-to-date, neat and organized. Include photographs and thank you notes. 25. Hire or barter with a local film student to get footage of you planning, prepping and producing a major job.

Denise Vivaldo is the author of 7 books: