First, we have a mutual client – and he tells me that you are brilliant. Which is always nice to hear.

Next: I’m hearing two things. (1) You want to break through to the next level. (2) You’re very busy.

These two are pulling you in opposite directions.

Suggestion, if you haven’t done this yet: Clearly spell out your criteria for the ideal client you’d like to have going forward. This is a simple first step, but it’s often skipped.

Secondly, drop me in an email. I’m happy to schedule a free “Attract AAA Customers” (or clients) strategy session if you like. Description under the testimonial.

Enjoy your freed up weekend.

Dov

Just got a few unexpected minutes available. I had the day blocked out (weekend actually) for a seminar. I left after 3 hours. Typical rah-rah, 1-liners and high fives.

It is not that we struggle. On the contrary, we are busy and engaged. But the business is definitely on a plateau and needs to break through to the next level. I haven’t had to make a cold call in 12 months, but I also know that I have to do something different to break through.

The irony is I am a marketing expert, but somehow can’t translate my retail marketing expertise into B2B marketing success. Intuitively, just yesterday I said to a prospective client that I am interviewing and selecting them as much as they are doing it to me.

I am just in t the process of signing up for a listing a trade magazine & website, but deep down I know that there will be some hits but low conversions. And because we are so busy, I am almost not wanting the conversions because I am not geared up to handle the work.

So I am thinking… what next. Maybe this is the clue I need? Sound like it.

Amen.

Dov

It’s nice to get some dissension here.

Expecting life to be difficult and expecting success are not mutually exclusive.

I’ve seen many entrepreneurs who go out there expecting they’ll get by on their smarts, charm or because their product is good. They’re looking for things to be easy. And it kills them.

You’re an analytical fellow and I’m a consultant, so let’s create a 2×2 matrix:

Success: Expect it / Don’t expect it.
Difficulty: Expect it: / Don’t expect it.

Ironically, when you expect life to be difficult – and you expect to succeed, you plan, prepare and do what it takes – making life easier.

Thanks for your comment,
Dov

1) I don’t think the distinction between your two attitudes is “reasonable” vs “unreasonable”; I think it’s more “small picture” vs “big picture”. Small picture = “I need this sale” = thinking only about the here and now; Big picture = “I need a business where I’m not needy of anything” = having a vision of where you are aiming to be.

2) Expecting life to be difficult is IMHO not a desirable trait. Rather expect success.

Thank you for your thoughtful comment.

Just yesterday I commented to someone how things I read 15 years ago and thought I understood are just now clicking into place.

Reminds me of the observation that youth is wasted on the young.

I’m real glad you’re finding my material to be helpful. May I suggest that you – and anyone else reading this with a business – take this three question survey? It will help me provide more free training that focuses on what you want and need.

Click here to take 3 question survey

Dov

Yeah, people don’t like to be controlled or “possessed.” What I’m talking about though is being *unreasonable* with yourself.

Thanks for the comment,
Dov

Dov