Play Ball!

Another business observation I have from our Spring Training trip has to do with connecting with the customer. Many of these players will painstakingly sign autographs for the fans who are reaching out with baseballs and pens in their hands. Even the superstars will take the time to be with the fans.

Obviously, there is a limit to how long these players can sign autographs, but I noted that some would go out of their way to not engage with the crowd. I offer grace to these players as they have other things to do. They would never get off the field if they signed everyone’s autograph, but how about a smile and a wave?

What many may not realize is the fan is their customer. These players are blessed with a career that enables them to make an incredible living for playing a game they enjoy. We chose a career that enables us to make a nice living in an industry we enjoy. While the income potential differs greatly, we have the opportunity to be as successful as we choose.

This should be a reminder to all of us that we need to show appreciation to our clients. In today’s fast-paced electronic world, this often is overlooked. A simple handwritten "thank you" note has a big impact, because most people don’t do this.

The value of promotional products and the benefits of personal connections was showcased during the inaugural Promotional Products Work Week. This outreach program facilitated by PPAI was a big hit and created many opportunities to connect with clients and prospects. You don’t have to wait for a program like this to have a client appreciation lunch or do an open house. We need to thank our clients and reach out all the time!

In what would seem to be a unique twist on connecting and saying thanks, one of my clients reached out to me with this e-mail message: