Podcast Summary: "Shoot Your Shot and Make More Sales"

Episode Title: Shoot Your Shot and Make More Sales
Host: Jenna Warriner
Release Date: November 4, 2024
Podcast: Shiny New Clients!
Duration: 20 minutes

Introduction

In the episode titled "Shoot Your Shot and Make More Sales," Jenna Warriner delves into the critical strategies for business owners to actively pursue sales rather than waiting for clients to come to them. Emphasizing the importance of proactive marketing and effective sales techniques, Jenna provides actionable insights designed to help service-based entrepreneurs fill their calendars with ideal clients.

The Importance of Asking for Sales

Jenna begins by addressing a common misconception among business owners: "You do not get sales that you don't ask for." She underscores that while some clients may seek out your services organically, the majority of sales require intentional efforts to reach out and pitch your offerings.

Notable Quote:

"Nine times out of ten, you do not get sales that you don't ask for." [02:10]

This statement highlights the necessity of taking initiative in sales efforts to tap into the existing market demand for your services.

Overcoming Mental Blocks in Selling

A significant barrier to making sales is the internal hesitation that many entrepreneurs face. Jenna discusses how overthinking and self-doubt can hinder effective selling. She shares a personal anecdote about accidentally recording an episode without a microphone to illustrate how excitement can sometimes lead to unintended actions, symbolizing the internal chaos that often accompanies the sales process.

Notable Quote:

"We get all up in our head... I was just talking into my computer instead of my microphone." [03:00]

This metaphor serves to explain how internal distractions can prevent business owners from focusing on what truly matters—connecting with clients.

Reframing Sales as Beneficial to Clients

Jenna emphasizes shifting the perspective on sales from a self-serving activity to one that genuinely benefits clients. By viewing sales efforts as a way to provide value and solve client problems, entrepreneurs can overcome feelings of being pushy or aggressive.

Notable Quote:

"As soon as you start thinking of your content as something that benefits other people and isn't for personal gain... things get a lot easier." [04:45]

She shares advice from her friend Alicia Wood, a mindset coach, who encouraged her to focus on the client's needs rather than her own fears of being perceived negatively.

Real-Life Examples of Effective Outreach

To illustrate the effectiveness of proactive sales, Jenna provides real-life examples:

1. Community Engagement: Jenna recounts a neighbor personally inviting her to a local movie screening organized by a community center. Initially perceiving this as invasive, she realized the genuine intent behind the invitation and appreciated the outreach.

   Notable Quote:

   "Some people might go, oh my gosh, cold calling, how invasive... but I was so thankful because I know I wouldn't have found out about this if you weren't pushing." [06:30]

2. ChatGPT Example: Jenna shares her experience with ChatGPT, illustrating how a lack of sales outreach led to missed opportunities. She was unaware of premium features until a team member informed her, showcasing how businesses often miss out on valuable offerings without proactive communication.

   Notable Quote:

   "If they had sold to me, I might have gone, oh wow, yes, absolutely. Here, take my money." [08:15]

These examples demonstrate that what some perceive as aggressive promotion is often welcomed and appreciated by recipients when done thoughtfully.

Practical Steps to Implement Proactive Sales

Jenna provides a series of actionable steps for listeners to start making more sales:

1. Use Sales Post Templates:

   • A free sales post caption template is available in the show notes, Instagram Bio, or TikTok Bio.
   • Quote: "There's a free sales post caption template down in the show notes of this episode." [10:00]

2. Follow Up with Leads:

   • Reach out to three leads in Instagram DMs who showed interest but didn't convert initially.
   • Quote: "Follow up with three leads in your Instagram DMs. Ask them if they're ready now." [11:20]

3. Pitch in Stories:

   • Utilize Instagram Stories to promote services and include links for easy access.
   • Quote: "Pitch yourself in your stories on Instagram and add a link to work with you." [12:45]

4. Reconnect with Past Clients:

   • Contact three of your best previous clients to inform them about new offers or invite them back for additional services.
   • Quote: "Reach out to three of your best clients... let them know about a new offer." [14:10]

These strategies are designed to systematically increase outreach efforts and maximize sales opportunities.

Conclusion: Embrace the Action and Transform Your Business

Jenna wraps up the episode by reinforcing the importance of taking action to secure sales. She encourages listeners to "shoot your shot" and challenges the negative perceptions surrounding proactive selling.

Notable Quote:

"Sweep up the 9 out of 10 sales that will only come to you if you take action." [17:30]

She reassures listeners that adopting a client-centered approach to sales not only enhances business growth but also positively impacts clients' lives. Additionally, Jenna offers ongoing support through available resources and emphasizes that she is committed to helping listeners succeed.

Final Call to Action:

"You can go out there and sweep up the 9 out of 10 sales that will only come to you if you take action. Go out there and get them and build your business." [19:50]

Key Takeaways

• Proactive Selling is Essential: Relying solely on inbound leads limits sales potential. Actively reaching out increases opportunities.

• Shift Perspective: Viewing sales as a means to provide value to clients helps overcome fears of being pushy.

• Real-Life Examples Validate Strategies: Personal anecdotes demonstrate that thoughtful outreach is often appreciated.

• Implement Actionable Steps: Utilize provided templates, follow up with leads, pitch through stories, and reconnect with past clients to boost sales.

• Take Action Now: The majority of sales come from active efforts, so embracing proactive strategies is crucial for business growth.

By following the insights and strategies shared in this episode, listeners are equipped to enhance their sales techniques, overcome mental barriers, and ultimately attract more "shiny new clients" to their businesses.