"Opportunity is a haughty goddess who wastes no time with those who are unprepared."
--- George Clason
Fresh off of the International Sign Association show in Orlando, we finally had an opportunity to contemplate some of the new products that are on the market today. Some of them are improvements on old technology, some are helpful tools to make the life of a sign person easier, and others are brand new to the market. All present new opportunities for the smart players in this industry.
"An enterprising person is one who comes across a pile of scrap metal and sees the making of a wonderful sculpture. An enterprising person is one who drives through an old decrepit part of town and sees a new housing development. An enterprising person is one who sees opportunity in all areas of life."
--- Jim Rohn
When one walks the floor of a show like ISA, it is easy to be impressed and even somewhat overwhelmed by the many opportunities available in the sign industry. New lighting products, channel materials, printers of all sizes, laminators, business software and on and on.
In this issue of our newsletter, you'll notice an article on floor graphics, (which was also represented at the show). This is just one additional product that could make an interesting added feature to your lineup to offer your customers.
"The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word 'crisis'. One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger-but recognize the opportunity."
--- John F. Kennedy
Trade shows are not the only place to find opportunities. Your local library has a whole slew of business biographies detailing the lives of successful people that became successful after being forced to devise a plan, product, or service as a solution to a problem. They had to change course after a crisis or circumstance impacted, and sometimes almost crippled their businesses.
"Statistics suggest that when customers complain, business owners and managers ought to get excited about it. The complaining customer represents a huge opportunity for more business."
--- Zig Ziglar
Your team members, vendors, and customers all present opportunities to you, almost daily. Look for the hidden jewels in what is said by all. Your way may have been a good start to the business, but seeking wise counsel from those within your business, as well as those not even in this industry can help you to find golden opportunities to increase sales and profits.
It was once said that the theme song for failed businesses is, "I Did It My Way." Whether you go to others for advice or simply listen carefully to those around you (eavesdrop), glean wisdom from others.
"Someone once told me: 'Luck is when opportunity meets preparation'. And that's what I really feel with my music. I've worked really, really hard on it. It was like, 'this is really what I want to do...what do I have to do to make it work?'"
--- Erica Baxter
Of course, finding good opportunities to expand your business are more than just including a new product or service. There is no substitution for hard work, except for working hard and smart. Choose your opportunities wisely and then grit your teeth and dive in wholeheartedly. Opportunities abound. Choose the ones that will best serve your customers and your community.
How to Train Cats and Salespeople
By John Boe
Surprisingly, the same training and reward techniques required to get Fluffy to jump through a hoop can also be utilized to motivate your sales team to achieve peak-performance! Read it I know you're curious.
Read the article...
Floor Graphics: Walking into Opportunity
By Jennifer LeClaire
The floor graphics concept was ahead of its time a few years ago, but if you haven’t gotten into this side of the business yet, there is no time like the present.
Read the article...
Getting Inkjet Ink and Print Heads to Work Together
By Vince Cahill
Inkjet print systems fail primarily because of the fluids used in them. Read on to find out if it's all a hoax or if putting high-test in is all it's cracked up to be.
Read the article...
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As seen in Greenville, SC:
"Drive Slow, See Our City. Drive Fast, See Our Judge"
Bethel Assembly of God Church Sign:
"Prayer Is The Ultimate Wireless Connection"
Advertisement for a lawn sprinkler system:
We know those funny signs are out there. Take a moment and send them in to us and we'll share them with the world. Send all hysterical observations to: info@signindustry.com.
