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View Full Version : I've sent out a business introduction letter, should I make a follow-up call?


Happydays1
Mar 5, 2013, 02:10 AM
Hi,

I've recently started up a new business, having completed research on my target audience, I sent out a number of business introduction letters by post, should I make a follow-up call or email requesting some feedback?

Many thanks

tickle
Mar 5, 2013, 03:50 AM
Following up on your introduction letter is the natural progression, that is why you do it. I would suggest calling to get the proper person to speak to. Just remember, never ask a question that can be answered with a flat out NO! Of course, if, when calling, you get the opportunity to visit, then do it immediately.

Happydays1
Mar 6, 2013, 05:32 AM
Following up on your introduction letter is the natural progression, that is why you do it. I would suggest calling to get the proper person to speak to. Just remember, never ask a question that can be answered with a flat out NO! Of course, if, when calling, you get the opportunity to visit, then do it immediately.

Many thanks for your prompt response Tickle and your advice therein, having reread my question I see that I was not as clear as I should have been, i.e. what I meant to ask was, is it more appropriate to make a follow-up call or alternatively send a follow-up email - which is considered more professional or is it an issue at all?

Again many thanks for your help!

joypulv
Mar 6, 2013, 06:00 AM
I would do neither. A lot depends on the nature of the business, as well as what your introduction said.
For most business, they just throw an introduction in the trash without reading it.
Business is all about an impression in the first 3 seconds. That means a glossy 5 x 7 postcard of smiling employees with charter rates for products or services on the back. COST and QUALITY are the bottom line, but you don't say it, you prove it with prices and facts.

tickle
Mar 6, 2013, 09:05 AM
Do neither, don't agree. Common business practice after doing a mail out has always been the follow up.

Happy, whichever way you want to do the follow up, and I do think I covered that, whichever way you are comfortable with. Just don't allow all that preliminary expense and work 'die on the vine' so to speak.

I don't know how many you sent out, but all is worth it to follow up. You have to build a client base somehow and you have just provided yourself with the opportunity.

Good luck on the follow up. Get your foot in that door!

joypulv
Mar 6, 2013, 09:21 AM
You can throw bad money after bad.
Or you can go by what statistics on such 'letters of introduction' show.
I am aware of some of them, which is why I asked what kind of business, because it matters.
OP has given no indication of building a client base either. It appears that this is the effort to build that base.