Saturday, July 14, 2007
Improve Your Craft Sales Results
You have to change the process to change the results.
It's estimated (and I can well believe it) that of every ten sales people, only three will actually ask for the business. Of those three, only one will be successful in closing the deal. Are you the one who makes the sale, or are you part of the nine who don't?
If you're in business for yourself, it's because you have something to sell. Are your results what you expect or would like them to be? Do you think (or know) that you could do better?
Improve Your Craft Sales Results - Can You Sell?
It's a common scenario - for example: You make something that everybody loves, so you decide to start selling your products in the hopes that you'll build your little business into something big enough to sustain a full time income, but you're just not selling enough to be able to quit your job and work for yourself.
It may be that you've never been trained in sales - this is not unusual, you're an artist or crafter for a reason, if sales is what you were born to do, that's what you would be doing. It may be that you're not very comfortable with or confident at selling - also not unusual if you've never been taught sales skills and techniques, because it takes time to develop the confidence to sell when you first start out.
Improve Your Craft Sales Results - Develop Your Skills
Whatever the reason, the good news is that it's really easy to turn the situation around so that you start closing one deal after the next, resulting in a much improved cash flow!
Yes, it does take confidence, and you will build that confidence up sale by sale, because it also takes skill and technique - once you've learned how to sell, and you apply your new skills, you'll be so thrilled with the results that your confidence will grow in leaps and bounds, and so will your sales!
I'd like to share a personal anecdote on this topic, because what I'm writing about here is what I've experienced myself.
Improve Your Craft Sales Results - A True Story
At one of my previous jobs where I worked in a customer service role, my employer thought I showed promise to do more, and offered me a position in sales. I accepted, wanting to improve my earnings and climb up a notch. However, I didn't do very well at all. My employer hadn't offered me any sales training, and all the other sales consultants came from experienced sales backgrounds, so they didn't need to be trained (or so he thought).
I didn't want to lose this opportunity or fail at it, so I made some enquiries and I found a one day seminar that offered sales training for beginners. I asked my employer if he would pay for it and allow me to go - he wasn't very keen at first, but he could see how enthusiastic I was, and he was impressed that I'd been proactive instead of just giving up.
Well, that one day practically changed my life! I didn't realize it at first, of course, because the techniques seemed like such a "hard sell", and I didn't think I was confident enough to go through with it all. But little by little I started trying a few things out - a different rebuttal if a customer was giving me a reason s/he didn't want to buy; or a different introduction to the beginning of my sales pitch - and I could see that these things were having an effect on my customers, an effect that was positive for me.
Improve Your Craft Sales Results - Take Action!
A lot of people think you have to be a "born salesperson", but I can testify that isn't true. When you learn the right sales skills and techniques, and you apply them, you can become a successful salesperson. And if you want to run your own successful craft business, you have to become a successful salesperson - your business depends on it.
There are a number of ways you can go about learning the sales skills and techniques you need:
* Search the internet
* Find out what courses are offered in your area
* Browse your local library or book store, etc.
Generally speaking, not everything of value that you find is going to necessarily be free or inexpensive, but very often "you get what you pay for".
Article by:
For more free craft business info and resources, visit Craft Business Home.com - the free guide on how to turn your craft into a profitable home business!
Create Your Own Crafting Space
Many crafters start out working at their dining room table or kitchen. However, most of them eventually find they long to have separate space. Crafting at the dining room or kitchen table can work for small projects that are completed fairly quickly. As you get into projects that require more time to complete, you will find that the clutter left in those rooms can quickly become overwhelming. Plus your family members may not appreciate the clutter of your crafts in a room that is utilized by everyone. It may be time to seek out a solution and create your own crafting space.
A lot of crafters may be limited to they type of space available to them. Perhaps they don’t have a spare bedroom they could use. In cases like this you have to get creative.
Let us explore some of the creative spaces you might consider.
1. Attic
An attic can be an ideal space if it’s easily accessible, like a walk up attic. Be sure your attic is cool enough in the summer. Also, make sure there enough head room for you to stand up. Attics can be delightful spaces in which to craft especially if they are large enough and have windows for natural lighting.
2. Large Walk In Closet
Some homes have very large walk in closets that can be easily turned into an ideal crafting space. Be sure there is access to electrical outlets and that you have enough space to place a work desk and storage.
3. Large Outdoor Shed
If you don’t have any ideal options for a crafting space inside your home, consider an outdoor shed, preferably one that is insulated and made from wood. Sheds can be purchased in various sizes ranging from 8 x 8 feet all the way up to 10 x 15 feet on average. If you do not already have a shed in your backyard, purchasing one may be an alternative. If you or your husband is handy in carpentry, you could also build your own. It’s important that your shed is wired for electric and meets all the safety standards. Check with your local county for more information. A outdoor shed can be as simple or elaborate as you want and can be delightful crafting spaces.
4. Basements
If you have a finished basement that is comfortable and has access to a lot of natural light, this may be an ideal option. Basements that are dark, cold and uninviting are usually not good options. You don’t want to feel like you are descending into a dungeon each time you go down to craft. Remember that your craft space should be a pleasant place to work.
5. In Plain Sight
Perhaps you live in a apartment, loft or small home where additional space poses quite a challenge. In cases like this you may need to consider creating your crafting space in plain sight, sort of. Consider using room dividers to create a separate space in a existing room. The dividers will not only separate your crafting space from living space but they will also serve to hide any craft related clutter.
Regardless of the location you choose for your crafting space, it’s important to remember to make it a inspiring place in which to create. Once you have determined the location, consider the following.
1. Natural light or the ability to create enough artificial light is a must.
2. Be sure there is adequate space to allow for storage of your supplies.
3. Consider wall colors that will create a light and pleasant crafting space.
4. Decorate your space to surround yourself with things that inspire you.
5. Think about if you want access to a radio, TV or phone in your space.
Even if you may not have the ideal crafting space, you can create a wonderful work place with a little imagination.
Article by:
© 2007 Kelle Arvay is the owner of Pattern Mart with offers customers access to thousands of craft patterns that they can purchase and download instantly. Additionally, she is the owner of eCraft Classes which is dedicated to online craft classes. She has been a crafter and pattern designer for many years. www.PatternMart.com www.eCraftClasses.com
Prim Talk Radio Show #65 Friday July 13th
* Angie host of Heartland Graphics will be sharing a segment on how to sell on Ebay for the Holiday Season this is Part 1
* Michelle Lammers from Scrappin with Army Wife talks getting crafts ready for the Holiday Season
* Mary Jo Elliott our newest staff member from Fine Country Living Primitives talks to you about Auctions and Estate Sales
* Aurelia Williams our Personal Development Coach discusses put more balance in your life
* Renae from Prim Clipper is on vacation!
* Vicky will be talking about how to make Tie Dye Crafts with your kids
* Feathured Crafter Interview this week is with Michele from Holly Tree Primitives
* Grab our Advertising Special 6 months of Front Page advertising plus mention on every show for 50% off normal prices the total is only $50 for six months! Click here to order!
* Our Top 5 Partner Program-Get your site listed for FREE
* Aurelia’s Podcast-“Parenting My Teen”
* Jessica Archer-Song “At Last”
* Tim Armstrong Band=Song “Listen to your Heart”
Click here to visit our site
Click here to download our show
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Prim Talk Radio Show #61 Friday June 15th
Two Old Crows talks about Painting Wicker
Furniture
of creating a Basket of Roses
from
Primitive Times Magazine from Neenee which can be found on 10 and 11 of
our June Issue and also "How to Make Primitive Signs"
Scrappin with Army Wife
talks about how to keep your kids busy during
the summer
North Country Essentuals
does not have a segment this week
Personal Development Coach is back with
great tips On to create a Meal Plan and To Do Lists
Prim Clipper is back to some quick Father's
Day Craft Ideas
Carmens Country Candles is will be back
next week with her segment
Day Craft Ideas called "Daddy's Little Girl Frame"
Click here to visit our site
Click here to listen to our show
Monday, June 04, 2007
Primitive Times Magazine June Issue Is Ready
The June 2007 FREE Primitive Times Magazine E-Issue was just released and it is a "MUST READ!" It is filled to the brim with FREE craft articles for
Fathers Day!. You definitely don't want to miss it.
You can now read your copy of the FREE June 2007 issue of Primitive Times Magazine two ways. It is available as either a
FREE .pdf e-zine issuefor you to download and or you can order a copy by mail!.
Whichever way you decide to read it Primitive Times Magazine May 2007 issue is filled to the brim with 31 pages of terrific information for crafters, small business, and website owners.
Just look at what's included:
Our June Issue was full of great Craft Ideas!
Full of wonderful crafts and business articles, Table of
Contents Below:
Introduction
Website Design Tips to Make Your Site more Attractive
Recipe Corner
How I Keep My Creative Juices Flowing
So You Thinking of Opening A Co-Op To Sell Your Crafts
Handmade Grass Soap
Potato Prints
Clock Face Tutorial
Featured Crafter #1
Baskets of Apple Roses
Shopping Your Local Flea Market
Campground Recipes
Tips and Ideas for Crafting
Father's Day Ideas
Featured Crafter #2
The #1 Mistake of Crafters With Blogs!
Recipe Corner 2
Business Success with Niki Jackson
Camping Tips
Starch Play Clay
Web Directory
Spotlight Ads
Prim Talk Radio Ad
Heartland Marketplace Ad
Prim Clipper Ad
Fathers Day Gift Ideas
Fathers Day Recipes
So grab your FREE June 2007 issue of Primitive Times Magazine.
CLICK to Download the FREE .pdf e-zine issue .
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Written By Angela Wenke of Prim Talk Radio, Heartland Marketplace, Primitive
Times Magazine, Heartland Graphics
Thursday, May 31, 2007
New Crafting Forum - New Graphics Forum
The Krazy Kraft Lady Blog
KKL Graphics Blog
KKL Kreations Blog
Menopausal Monster Blog
contributing editor for:
Primitive Times Magazine a free downloadable magazine for crafters
Primitive Times Magazine Blog
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
FREE How To Create A Print Pattern and E-Pattern E-Pamphlet
If you'd like to read my 4-part series all you need to do is to download the FREE .PDF attachment, save it on your computer, and open it up in Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or higher. If you don’t have Adobe Acrobat Reader, don’t worry. The Adobe Acrobat Reader is a FREE download from Adobe. Just go to www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html and follow the instructions for downloading the program.
If you already have the Adobe Acrobat Reader (which most computer users do) then all you need to do is to download the PDF file attachment and then open it to view it. It will open in the Adobe Acrobat Reader program. From there you can save it to your computer, view it, or print it.
If you'd like to download my FREE Linda's How-Do-I Series? How To Create A Print Pattern and E-Pattern please just CLICK HERE or click on the picture above.
I hope you enjoy my FREE Linda's How-Do-I Series? How To Create A Print Pattern and E-Pattern E-Pamphlet and hope it motivates you to create your own e-patterns.
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Written Linda Walsh of Linda Walsh Originals, Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns,Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Handmade Dolls & Crafts Website, Linda Walsh Originals Dolls and Linda's Blog. Linda is a doll maker and doll pattern designer. http://lindawalshoriginals.com
Thursday, May 24, 2007
*Free* Angel 'Earn Your Wings' Outline
Click on image to view full size & save to your hard drivePosted by: Neenee
Friday, May 11, 2007
WHAT'S NEW On Our Editors Pages
This month we have quite a few NEW articles on the editors pages of our Primitive Times Magazine website that we thought you might like to know about.
Here's what's new:
Basically, Neenee's whole page is brand new and she has already added 2 great crafting articles that prim lovers are sure to enjoy. Plus, Neenee is a terrific graphics artist and she has added some of her wonderful FREE graphics including dolls, bears, fairies, mammies, sheep, angels and more.
Free Stick Horse Pattern by Neenee
Handmade Potpourri
FREE Graphics From Neenee
Boiling Ham and Cabbage Recipe
FREE Doll, Bear, & Fairy Graphics From Neenee - NEW
Making a Candle Jar - NEW
Debbie has two great articles for prim crafters.
Tea Staining Fabric NEW
Rusting Items NEW

If you like learning the history of certain items be sure to checkout Linda's latest article on the history of faceless dolls. If you like dolls and history you'll love reading this article and the other articles on Linda's "Dear Linda" page.
The History of Faceless Dolls-NEW
Prim Business Articles by Angie
Angie added another great business article on website how-to's.
Website How-To's - NEW
There's a ton of information on all our editors pages. We have everything from Free Graphics, Free Patterns, Recipes, Craft Projects, Business Tips, Craft Tips, Historical Articles, Advice for WAHM's, How-To's, Prim Crafting Tips, and so much more.
We hope you get a chance to stop by our Primitive Times Magazine website and read the latest from our editor's pages.
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Written Linda Walsh of Linda Walsh Originals, Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns,Linda Walsh Originals DOLLS NEW Handmade Dolls & Crafts Website, Linda Walsh Originals Dolls and Linda's Blog. Linda is a doll maker and doll pattern designer. http://lindawalshoriginals.com
Saturday, May 05, 2007
The Easy Way To Drive That Pesky Traffic Away From Your Website 101
The Easy Way to Drive That Pesky Traffic Away From Your Website
By Angie Wenke
Over the last two years I have written a lot of articles on how to drive traffic to your sites, and even how to promote your site for FREE to drive traffic to your site. But then I got to thinking that maybe an article on big "No No's" that will drive people from your site in droves might be a good idea also.
Let's face it we have all been on a site that drove us nuts, the menu was not easy to navigate, the graphics were so bright or loud or distracting or disorganized, the text was too large to read, or the site just simply looked like a huge mess. You do not want your site to fall into one of the above categories. So here are some fun tips of what NOT to do on your website. This article is meant to be a funny satire to sites that are not put together well.
1-DO NOT MAKE IT CLEAR WHAT YOU SELL OR OFFER:
This is the best way to drive traffic from your site kicking and screaming. Make what you sell a big mystery or clue finding mission. Make them search and read through the lines so they can try and figure out what what the heck are you offering. Make sure your spelling is awful, your text is set to font size "48" so even blind people are running from your site because they can't even read what you are saying.
2-MAKE YOUR SITE GRAPHIC BOLD AND MISMATCHED AND PLACED IN FUNNY SPOTS
Nothing is better than going to a site where there are country graphics mixed in with Gothic graphics, or how about those ever fluorescent colored sites where the text is brown on black background making you have to squint until you feel like your eyes are going to explode to try and see what the heck the text is saying.
3-HAVE A SEA OF BANNERS AND GRAPHICS FLOATING ALL OVER THE PLACE
Make sure you have banners advertising everything from preparation H to hemorrhoids all over your site, and don't forget your adult channels. Make sure the ads have NOTHING to do with your site, and your graphics do not make sense so you visitors are left clueless.
4-HAVE A COMPLICATED CHECKING OUT SYSTEM
Make sure your customers have to run around in circles like a hamster in a wheel to try and pay you for your products. You want to make sure your customers really want what you are selling so making a checkout system that is easy to use and understand will only deter you making really great sales! You want your customer to spend 30 minutes looking for the Pay pal button and credit card logos, and how about few errors pages thrown in the mix to really throw them off!
5-HAVE AS MANY BROKEN LINKS AS POSSIBLE
You do not want your customers to actually navigate all the pages on your site with ease so throw them a curve ball by throwing in a OLD OUTDATED page every once in awhile.
6-PUT OUTDATED OR INCORRECT CONTACT INFORMATION
For Heaven's sake DO NOT I repeat DO NOT put your correct email or phone number in your contact area! This is crucial you DO NOT want under any circumstances for the customer to actually be able to contact you!
This is a humorous look at bad sites that are floating around and things you DO NOT want your customers to encounter while shopping on your site. So take the time to make sure your site looks the best it can and the sales will come!
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Written By Angela Wenke of Prim Talk Radio, Heartland Marketplace, Primitive Times Magazine, Heartland Graphics
Top Sites - Is There Really a Benefit?
Top sites - Is there really a benefit?
By Angela Wenke
If you have had online business for long then you have noticed on sites the cute little logos saying "Vote For Us" , but what really are top sites and will they really help your business be noticed? Top sites are everywhere you look, seems like everyone who owns a business also has a top sites account, therefore how do you know which ones should you join?
Top sites in my opinion are a wonderful "FREE" Resource of targeted traffic to your website. What I mean by targeted traffic is each top site has a theme such as country and primitive. The people browsing those top sites are looking for country and primitives and therefore would be interested in visiting your site if you banner and description are catchy enough. Traffic to your site is key, if you want your site to be seen and noticed and to eventually grow in the Search Engine Rankings and Top sites are wonderful FREE way to achieve this. Top sites allow customers to visit your site, join your top sites if you offer one, and even vote for your site to help boost you higher on that particular top site.
The key to making top sites work towards advertising your business is join ONLY top sites that are geared towards what you sell. For instance if you sell crafts and primitives then you would to join Primitive, Country and Crafts Top sites not top sites that cater to auto parts. When deciding what category your site fits do your research and ONLY join top sites that are in your category and also that are ranked high in GOOGLE.
Go to GOOGLE and type in what kind of top sites you are looking for, for example "primitive top sites. country top sites, craft top sites, candle top sites, graphics top sites, bath n body top sites" then join the top ten in each category that fits your business needs. Now when customers go to search for a particular product you might sell such as "candles" their search results should also include your candle top sites you just joined.
Voting for your top sites is also a nice way to make sure your site is seen an noticed, by just voting for your sites once a day or every other day it helps to boost your site to the number one position in the top sites voting system. Also make sure you offer a page for your customers to visit your top sites and hopefully give you a vote in the process. You will be surprised how many votes you will receive from customers some of them interested in searching top sites or maybe just joining that top sites. Either way works for you as you are getting the votes you need to keep your site seen and noticed.
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Written By Angela
Wenke of Prim Talk Radio, Heartland Marketplace, Primitive
Times Magazine, Heartland Graphics
May 2007 Issue of Primitive Times Magazine
The May 2007 FREE Primitive Times Magazine E-Issue was just released and it is a "MUST READ!" It is filled to the brim with FREE craft articles for Mothers Day!. You definitely don't want to miss it.
You can now read your copy of the FREE May 2007 issue of Primitive Times Magazine two ways. It is available as either a
FREE .pdf e-zine issuefor you to download and or you can order a copy by mail!.
Whichever way you decide to read it Primitive Times Magazine May 2007 issue is filled to the brim with 33 pages of terrific information for crafters, small business, and website owners.
Just look at what's included:
Linda Walsh
CLICK to Download the FREE .pdf e-zine issue .
Copyright © 2007 - All Rights Reserved - Written By Angela Wenke of Prim Talk Radio, Heartland Marketplace, Primitive
Times Magazine, Heartland Graphics