9 Non-Cringy Ways to Stay in Touch with your Pipeline

Sales can be tricky.  We are told to “stay in front of the potential customers,” but sometimes that feels…well…cringy. 

If you walk away with anything today let it be this: connect with people on a human level.

We feel like we are pestering, pushing and being annoying and salesy.  One thing to remember is this: you are not pestering, you are reminding.  Your potential customer is most likely interested in what you are selling, but it’s not on their urgent list.  Therefore, when we pop in for a “hey don’t forget about us,” it’s serving as a reminder and a way to be helpful.

“They” say it takes 7-9 touchpoints before a customer truly feels comfortable with you and your product/service.  9 phone calls to one person feels daunting (to both of you). We are BIG believers that calls DO WORK, but what else can you do? Save yourself some brain energy….we got you.

9 touchpoint ideas you can try today:

1.Comment on or share their social media posts.

But don’t be creepy.  If someone posts a cute picture of their kids, don’t comment with “Hey Sierry did you hear about our promotion this week?”  Instead, celebrate their work accomplishments, or promote THEIR product/service by reposting.

2. Invite them to an event.

Keep it relevant.  Your kid’s half birthday party doesn’t count.  Your industry-specific meet up, a small dinner party with professional friends, or a sporting event does.

3. Introduce them to others.

The greatest way we grow is together.  (Sorry, hallmark moment). According to LinkedIn, 79% of professionals say that networking is valuable for career progression.  Helping others progress in their career, through productive connections, is a very life-giving practice.  It’s beneficial for everyone and a great way for you to be an asset to your potential customer. 

4. Send an article/book/podcast that would interest them.

Yes, another reason to know your people well.  What is important to them right now and how can you address that?  Luckily, you don’t have to be an expert.  You just have to share already-existing knowledge.

5. Send them a thank you note.

Anyone who has given us time is worthy of our thanks.  Grab some cards and stamps, keep them nice and easily accessible at your work desk and send one a day.  It’s a practice that takes 30 seconds, but has great rewards. Everyone loves getting mail that isn’t a bill. 

6. Send a feedback survey.

How can you serve better? Ask!  Keep it short, and easy for them to fill out.  

7. Send birthday gifts.

For them, and their kids.  Keep it simple, people - they don’t want a throw pillow with your face on it.  A gift card for a coffee, a book, a nice candle, something customized with THEIR logo on it…we can go on all day….

8. Care

A genuine “How are you? Do you need anything from me?” call or text goes a long way.  Among all these touchpoint ideas, this is the most important one.  

9. Memes

Everyone loves a good laugh.  A funny, appropriate meme is a great way to “pop in” and say hello.

Remember - you are serving as a reminder.  Be creative, have fun and most importantly….care. 

We work with folks everyday on how to care for their customers.  If you are interested in learning more, feel free to contact us.  We’d love to hear more about what you’re doing.

Thanks for your time today,

Coach Laine