Resolutions!

Resolution. In my dictionary, the first definition of the word as a noun is "the act or process of reducing to simpler form" such as the act of analyzing a complex notion into simpler ones.

That's not the typical definition that one considers at this time of year. But, for our purposes with respect to referral marketing, let's see where it'll take us.

Think for a minute about the complexities of your sales cycle. What are some standard steps that take place in your system to get a prospect to become a client? For some, it might include writing a proposal or two, presenting the proposal once or twice, meeting with the prospect on several occasions, and taking the prospect out to lunch or dinner. It's also sure to involve numerous phone calls, time spent building up your credibility, and plenty of time spent convincing the prospect that you're the right person for the job. It's typically a long, drawn out process that is longer for some than others.

Imagine if in 2007 you could reduce the sales process to a simpler form. Imagine if you could simplify it to the point that a prospect comes to you ready to buy your product and services ... outright ... no selling needed at all! That's the beauty of word of mouth marketing! Word of mouth marketing is a resolution for the sales process. If done effectively and strategically, it shortens your sales cycle significantly and saves you an enormous amount of time.

This is ONE resolution that can dramatically impact your business. And, it's a resolution that is actually FUN to keep forever.