Small Business Marketing Blog from Duct Tape Marketing

Can't wait to hear Covey - the son of the man who became a legend with 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - this issue of TRUST is one of the most pressing issues of our day. Customers are so well informed, so picky. They have so many tools to use to "kick the tires" before a relationship is started. Gone are the days when customers were at the mercy of the salesperson's message. Nowadays, consumers are more informed than ever and are demanding authenticity from the people selling to them. Consumers now have so much more say about the process (and they can blog their hearts out about it for the world to read). The real issue becomes whether as salespeople, can WE truly trust our prospective customers to choose us. We can't manipulate, sugar-coat, hype-up, or create a slick campaign that will persuade people. Consumers are too savvy for that and desire the real deal. We must nurture the relationship. We must court them, date them, and as in any relationship, be real with them if we are gonna make it a long-lasting relationship. It's two-way, but we have to EARN that trust.

I have the announcement on my blog as well.

By the way, I like that (at least on my Mac), when I am writing a comment, your photo to the left is right exactly where I am typing. So actually feel like I'm looking at you when I'm writing. Don't know if this is intentional or not, but it sure adds to the relationship when I'm writing a comment.

Wow this is exciting - Steven Covey rocks!

@Randy - thanks for your thoughtful comment and no, the photo thing wasn't intentional, I wouldn't think all would find it nice as you.

I was lucky to attend The 7 Habits Training program a few years ago and follow these principals everyday. Can't wait for this event!