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

Enneagram Gift Giving Guide 2021

Even though we all love the magic of the holidays...they also come with some of the biggest challenges of the year, like finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! This year, though, I’m bringing you the perfect gift-giving guide, exclusively tailored to each Enneagram number. So get out that list of names and start crossing them off your list, because from stocking stuffers to showcase presents, I’ve got something for everybody (and every number) on your list! Want even more ideas? Follow me on Instagram at the_jenneagram and sign up for my monthly newsletter at jennvanhekken.com. Happy Shopping!

Enneagram 1:

Worried about getting the perfect gift for the perfectionist in your life? Don’t be! Gift something that is just as amazing as they are and helps them head confidently into the new year! Here are some ideas:

• A cashmere wrap or sweater set

• A new watch or trendy alarm clock

• A great dayplanner

• A luxurious sheet set

• An organizational system for their closet or cupboard

• High-end body lotion or face cream

Enneagram 2: 

Our Enneagram 2s are always helping everyone else, this season, it’s time to pamper them back with gifts that remind them how much we love and appreciate all that they do for us. Here are some ideas:

• A hand-crafted charcuterie board

• A personalized serving tray or barware

• A day at the spa

• Custom cards or stationery

• A cookbook by their favorite chef

• Warm and welcoming home decor

Enneagram 3:

Enneagram 3s are busy getting things done - even during the holidays. With busy lives in a busy season, remind your Enneagram 3s to slow down and enjoy the finer things by giving them a gift that keeps them on the go in style. Here are some ideas:

• Lessons for a new activity or hobby

• A home-meal subscription

• A name-brand handbag

• A Peloton

• A high-end facial

• A great perfume or cologne

Enneagram 4:

Enneagram 4s love the feeling of Christmas almost as much as they love Christmas in general. Remind the Enneagram 4s in your life that even though Christmases past have been wonderful, this one will be even better, by giving them a gift that is just as unique and special as they are. Some ideas include:

• A commissioned piece of artwork specifically designed for them

• Retro dinnerware

• Vintage jewelry

• New vinyl for their music collection

• Customized scented candles

• A signed copy of their favorite book

Enneagram 5:

Enneagram 5s love to learn and grow. Help your Enneagram 5s dig even deeper into those things that they already love, by giving them a gift that is all about their true passions. Help them dive deeper and learn more this Holiday season! Some ideas include:

• The latest tech gadget out there

• A subscription to their favorite news source or magazine

• A great biography or memoir to dive into

• A new piece to add to their collection

• A card game or puzzle

• A leather-bound journal

Enneagram 6:

Loyal and friendly Enneagram 6s love to always be prepared. Show your Enneagram 6s how much you appreciate their loyalty and friendship with a gift that helps them feel safe, secure, and ready to take on the New Year! Some ideas include:

• Their favorite scented candle

• A piece of jewelry that reflects your relationship

• A Ring doorbell

• Cash for their savings account

• Trendy boots that keep out the rain or snow

• A cute pair of pajamas with a matching robe

Enneagram 7: 

Enneagram 7s are always ready for adventure. Help them live life fully with a gift that encourages their joy and enthusiasm for the world around them. Some ideas include:

• Season tickets or passes to their favorite sports team or event

• A monthly subscription box with their favorite items

• New luggage

• A gift card for their favorite airline

• Dinner at a fun, new restaurant

• Anything that is currently in their Amazon cart (I guarantee there is a lot!)

Enneagram 8:

Enneagram 8s are strong and confident and love to experience life, so dive in and give something big and bold to the adventurous and spirited Enneagram 8s in your life! Some ideas include:

• A fun and funky graphic tee (the snarkier the better)

• A high-end bottle of their favorite wine or spirit

• Gift cards or Cash

• A donation in their name to their favorite charity

• A weekend away

• New gym or work-out equipment

Enneagram 9: 

Enneagram 9s love to cozy up and spend time with those they love. Help your Enneagram 9s have the coziest season yet with gifts that help them wind-down, relax, and fully enjoy the new year! Ideas include:

• A cozy blanket or throw

• A great robe

• A personalized mug with great coffee or tea to go with it

• A trendy sweatsuit

• Cabin socks

• A subscription to their favorite streaming platform

Control... Where do you have it ?

By Coach Sean

There are some things that we simply cannot control. We can’t control what our customers will or won’t purchase. or what our bosses will decide on any particular issue.

Instead of worrying and fretting over those things, focus on the things you can control.

You can control your work ethic, how you respond to situations, and your attitude.

If you focus your energy and resources on those things, you’ll find yourself moving forward.

Thomas Edison said, “The reason a lot of people do not recognize opportunity is because it usually goes around wearing overalls looking like hard work.”

Maybe your current situation is full of things that are out of your control. But, if you’re willing to put in the work and control the things you can control, you just might be surprised at the opportunities you will see open up in front of you. Plus, you’ll find that you’ll spend less time worrying over things you can’t control and you’ll be using your time better to produce real results.

How to Unplug on Vacation

By Coach John

If you are reading this blog, you are most likely a motivated individual who works hard, values growth and can sometimes get stuck in the chaos.  If that is you, then vacations and rest are absolutely essential for you to maintain a work/life balance. 

Have you noticed things about yourself on vacation? Is it hard to put your phone away? Not check emails? Or truly unplug? 

If that’s you, here are some hot tips on learning how to vacation well: 

1. Give yourself some space before your vacation begins, especially if you’re traveling. Plan far enough in advance so you’re not stressing out right up until the moment your vacation begins.

2. Engage in activities early in the vacation that will help you break up with work, putting your focus on rest and fun. Go to a theme park, plan a hike, go to a movie, etc. It helps to do something that takes all of your focus early in the vacation in order to divert your attention away from work.

3. Set some boundaries for “checking in” with work while on vacation. If you must keep tabs on work, do it at certain times/days. You’ll never rest your mind if you aren’t able to unplug. Turn the phone off for the morning. Ask someone to hide your laptop for several hours. Be present on your vacation.

4. Make a plan for re-entry into work. If you’re traveling, consider giving yourself an extra day to get back on your feet before jumping back in at the office. If you have family, they will also be thankful you don’t abandon them as soon as you all walk back in the front door. This extra time helps your mind and body end the vacation and prepare for shifting gears.

As you rest and vacation, you’ll learn more about yourself and what truly works for unplugging. This will make your vacations more purposeful. You’ll get better at leaving the office behind and enjoying your time off.