Networking Your Home Business

"Here’s an interesting experience: 

Three months ago, I visited a BNI chapter, where I met another person who was also visiting the same group. Last week, he called me to ask about a personal order because he remembered I didn’t have a minimum on apparel. I went in thinking 2-3 dozen assorted tanks and t-shirts. At 9 A.M. I showed up with a personalized Sanmar flyer/catalog that I created the night before, a professional order form off that flyer, and a slew of promos and sample work I'd done on my Press-A-Print equipment. By 9:45 A.M., I had a request for quote on 600 tees and tanks, 200 embroidered hats, source information on a work line of clothes that they are interested in, and a woman's camisole item from a prior vendor,

By noon, I had a full quote on everything; by 2 P.M., I had a soft commitment and they emailed artwork to me. The next day at 2 P.M., I had a 50% deposit and approved art in my hand and ready for production. We never did discuss the personal order... he got busy.  Why did I get the order? Because I was professionally prepared, I gave a simple bottom line price per piece with "no hidden charges,” I told him it would all be ready in a week including the embroidered hats, and they liked the idea that I was local. I am able to pop into their office in 15 minutes. They like the service and attention. They are a cycle order (they order every three months) and they didn’t bat an eye at my pricing. They just want quality and attention. They were amazed they would have their order next week including the embroidered hats!

Little did I know at the time that essentially my first infomercial would generate a $7K order! It just took some time. We are starting to see the effects of networking our Press-A-Print business!"

Jose Diaz

PDQ Promotions and Printing

Tracy, CA