As we stated in our past e-mails, this year we are all about building our businesses. We must all work a little harder, maybe a lot harder, during slow economic times. The trick is to work harder on things that will actually pay off in more customers and higher sales.
CDT's annual "Toasting the Top Ten" Party
was held on January 29th at Le Titi de Paris in Arlington Heights. Vicki and Camille played hostess to the top 10 designers for 2008. Each honoree was driven to and from the party in a limo, treated to a lovely four course dinner, serenaded by harp music and showered with gifts and praise. Best of all was the chance to talk and share ideas.
All of us at CDT wish to thank these women for their business and loyalty one more time. Shown in back row above are Kelly Guinaugh, Marietta Calas, Cynthia Keltz and partner Katie Campise, Carolyn Lewis, CDT owner Vicki Martin, Dagmar Obert, Mara Pedersen. Front row: Carol Most, Lynne Gillis, Tara Gruber, and CDT owner Camille Sullivan. Not pictured is Sharon Miller
In addition to our Top Ten, each year we also like to acknowledge the other 15 designers that round out our Top 25. We applaud the efforts of: Kerry Steiner, Bonnie Kovacik, Sandy Dzursin, Cathy Fountaine, Dana Kelter, Karen Fischer, Diane Johnson, Alison Sherman, Heidi Green, Tess Horak, Kristin Petro, Laurie Venema, Karen Nashen, Mollee Johnson, and our own Eve Senti.
Each of these 15 ladies received a special gift. All 25 have special mailboxes at CDT and get "first dibs" on new pricers and other goodies. We make every effort to find little perks and ways to show our appreciation to each of them.
These 25 ladies are living proof that, even in tough economic times, there is business out there if you do the right things and work hard to get it.
SO, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU??
WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?
In 2006, the first year we started the top ten promotion, the average sale of the honorees was about $40,000 in sales placed at CDT, including Robert Allen and Duralee sales, on the accounts that are attached to us. For 2008, that number had increased to almost $65,000. We know, from conversations with the winners, is that by setting a goal and striving toward it they increased their sales. Anyone who competes in ANYTHING understands the importance of having a written, measurable goal. If there is no target, what do you aim for?
We would like to challenge each of you to set a reasonable goal for 2009. Even if your goal is to stay even with 2008, it is important to state that goal. Post the number where you can see it. Decide what steps you need to take to reach it.
We have several experienced sales trainers here on our staff. We would be happy to help you with your goal setting, if you would like to brainstorm.
Is your goal to be one of the 2009 Top Ten?
There are lots of ways to begin! Do more appointments, sharpen your selling skills. Build your product knowledge, make more "add on sales" like upgraded cushions or accessories. As I mentioned, we include your Robert Allen and Duralee sales in these numbers. These vendors send us monthly reports on the accounts that are attached to our showroom. If you are not one of "our" accounts, we cannot count them toward this promotion, since we do not receive any credit for them, and cannot learn what your volume is. Typically, once we add the RA and DUR dollars, the make up of the Top Ten changes slightly, in that designers who do not order fabric through CDT, or are not "our accounts" get edged out.
The easiest way to break into the top ten is to simply order most of your product here! If you are spending hours going downtown, running from showroom to showroom, you might want to reconsider!
Do you sell a full complement of products? If you are not selling furniture, or do not usually accessorize, adding these types of things to your product mix can make a HUGE difference in your sales. Selling Hunter Douglas products has gotten several designers to the party.
These are just a few ideas...not only might you be at the top of our list come December, but think what sales of $60,000 would do to your income!
Nothing would make us happier to have to have a "Toasting the TOP 20!!! We would love to see you there!!
Sales: When you visit the showroom, be sure to look in the Duralee room for the flyer on current sale items. Many vendors are offering great promos now. Currently there are great deals to be had on Hunter Douglas "ette" products (like Duette, Silhouette etc.) as well as Century, Thomas Lawrence and Superior.
Call CDT for details, or check our blog for past e-mails.
If you have a good marketing idea to share with your fellow designers, we would love to hear it!
If you want to brainstorm about your goals, or any other aspect of your business, we are all here at CDT---ready and willing to help!
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