Graphic Media Alliance

Complete Story
 

01/10/2024

A Different Sales Approach

I don’t think this is an original thought, but my friend Kelly Mallozzi often says, “if you keep doing what you’re doing, you will keep getting what you’re getting.”

Entering a new year, we make pledges and promises. We set goals. The common denominator comes down to one word: Different. That is, what will you do this year that is different from what you did last year?

In answering this question, your mind might go to sales activities: more calls, more new business, etc. Or, you might think of your target market differently and go after a different kind of account or a different sized company. What I am suggesting is you get more basic than that.

I want you to re-frame WHAT you do and think of it in a completely different manner.

Start here…

Someone asks what you do for work. What is your answer? Is it, “I sell print/signage/labels/promo…?” Are you a bit more grandiose and say, “I am in the graphic arts”?

While that is your job, it’s not what you actually do. What you do is to help your clients grow. You help customers find their customers. You help them differentiate. You solve problems. You find solutions. It just so happens the tools used to solve these problems are print/signage/labels/promo.

Why is this even a thing? Why is it important?

Because people who sell print/signage/labels/promo quote numbers, sell on price, and have temporary client relationships. Those who see what they do in a different light sit at the ‘Cool Table’, consult with clients, and win their orders based on ideas. Their opinions are sought after. They form life-long bonds with customers.

You are one simple mind-shift away from joining them.

So, I will ask you again, What do you do?

Watch Bill present this week's sales tip


The Sales Vault, created by Bill Farquharson, is a subscription-based resource and sales community featuring a calendar packed with live workshops, on-demand sales courses, peer-to-peer discussion groups, and 35+ years of sales training content all searchable by sales challenge. Think of it as a sales conference where the seminars and workshops, full of instantly applicable ideas, are ongoing and more programs are added constantly.

The Sales Vault is available on a monthly subscription basis, normally at a no-brainer monthly price of $45/participant, but… GMA members can take advantage of an exclusive offer: FREE membership for 30 days followed by a discounted monthly subscription price of just $40/participant. 

Bill has been a friend of GMA for many years and is, no doubt, known to our members as a top sales trainer and content creator for the graphic arts.

Other Vault resources:

  • NEW: Replays—Insider exclusive recordings of Office Hours sales discussions
  • Downloadable prospecting letters
  • One killer-good intro letter only the bravest of the brave send out
  • A downloadable voicemail script
  • 15 on-demand video sales courses
  • Archived sales content searchable by sales challenge

Check out the Sales Vault!

Printer-Friendly Version



ENCORE Speaker Spotlight: Kasandra Murray Connects People, Culture & Growth

What happens when you look at your employees and customers as part of the same business ecosystem? At ENCORE 2026, Kasandra Murray of Unlucky Umbrella will lead two powerful conversations focused on the people who make growth possible. From creating a workplace people do not want to leave to building stronger customer relationships, Kasandra brings a fresh perspective on how marketing, operations, culture, and customer experience work together.

Read More

FORE the FUN of It!

Who’s in your foursome? Grab a few coworkers, customers, or industry friends and join us for one of GMA’s favorite days of the year. Whether you’re chasing the trophy or just looking forward to a great day on the course, the 21st Annual Graphic Media Alliance & Sterling Distribution Golf Tournament is all about good golf, great company, and plenty of fun along the way.

Read More

New at GMA University: Find Automation Opportunities Hiding in Your Workflow

Where is manual work quietly costing your company time and money? A new episode has been added to GMA University, exploring automation opportunities that exist around the edges of print production. And remember, GMA members have access to more than 100 online education modules completely FREE as part of your membership.

Read More

USI Insurance Services: Understanding Cyber Risk and Cyber Insurance

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the conversation is no longer just about preventing an attack. Businesses also need to understand their financial exposure and whether they have the right insurance protection in place. New GMA member USI Insurance Services brings expertise in cyber insurance and risk management to our membership, along with an upcoming educational webinar examining the rapidly changing threat landscape.

Read More

Paper Choice at a Crossroads: Proposed E-Delivery Rules Deserve Our Attention

A proposed SEC rule could change how important financial documents are delivered, shifting electronic delivery from an option to the default for many communications. Two Sides North America is encouraging the print and paper industry, customers, employees, and consumers to learn more and make their voices heard before the September 21 public comment deadline.

Read More

Read the Room

Sometimes the difference between making the sale and missing the opportunity has nothing to do with what you’re selling. It’s knowing your audience. The tale of two caddies serves as the inspiration for this week’s Short Attention Span Sales Tip from Bill Farquharson. One walked away $100 richer, while the other got a lump of coal. Find out why.

Read More