Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I recently submitted about $70 worth of product samples to the buyer at a large country store chain. I was so sure that my products (gourmet dip mixes and a fun frosted walnut snack called Squirrel Bait) would be perfect for their stores, as were many of my friends (both personal and business). Well, today the letter of doom came, and although I know the chances of them picking up my products were slim, I`m still really bummed about it. I know it`s just business but it`s still hard. My day started out so well! Isn`t it weird how one little tidbit of news can send you spiraling downward? Will I ever develop a hard enough skin so that stuff like this won`t bother me? And if I do - is that even a good thing?

I`m going to go upstairs and hug my husband and kids and watch some mindless TV for a while I think. Thanks for listening! If anyone has anything uplifting to say, I`d love to hear it!

Chris,
It`s all a matter of perspective. No matter what was written in the letter, we (you) really don`t know why they didn`t select you. One thing is sure, they know your name now. Is it possible they are not ready because there`s no shelf space... But in a few months there may be... That`s when they`ll remember you. No matter what. They know your name, and have sampled your product.


-------------------------

Vincent Wilcox (a.k.a. KRAKR)
Drummer
My band: Letters Make Words

That`s true. I hope someone is enjoying them and they don`t just sit around and get dusty. Hopefully the buyer took them home for some cookout parties she`s having and will keep me in mind. Thanks Vincent. I feel a little bit better.  Plus I plan to resubmit every few months.

Chris,
I bet you the potential buyer is planning the cookout and expects to "get rid of" a few free-bees received from enquiries. They`re probably laying in a "snack bowl" in the entertainment area.

I can see it now, the potential buyer`s guest arrives. While waiting for the host to get settled, the guest starts snacking on your samples and decides to ask,

"Hey John/Joan, when did you make these? They`re interesting."

Of course they didn`t mention they liked them because they thought John/Joan made them.

John/Joan: "Well actually they are a product I am not as interested in as I thought. So I figured we could just get rid of them."

About then, the subject would change to something more important than snacks. Although, the guest, realizing his friend is not interested in your product decides to "pocket" your labeling after finishing the sample.

In two months you receive an enquiry about an order so large you are now concerned that filling it will be the next trouble.

Chris, success is yours!


-------------------------

Vincent Wilcox (a.k.a. KRAKR)
Drummer
My band: Letters Make Words

I like that scenario! Either that or the guests will go so crazy over my stuff she`ll change her mind. :-)

Thanks Vincent!

Chris,

I know you`re bummed out. But use this experience as a lesson. I don`t know what the rejection letter stated, but it doesn`t sound as if they provided many details as to the "whys" they rejected your product.

Follow up with a Thank You letter to the buyer (maybe even send them another sample - something maybe you didn`t send the first time). Let them know you appreciated them taking the time and effort to review your product submission. Then kindly ask if they would detail the reason(s) why your product was not selected. Ask if there is anything they need further from you. Try to get as much information from them as possible so that future submissions from you will get closer to hitting their mark - whatever that is. If you don`t ask, they sure won`t tell you. But most buyers will repsond with reasons, if asked. The people who reply back and follow up are in the minority - persistence and determination are all powerful.

The $70 might be well spent if you learn more about this particular chain`s buying habits and requirements. Don`t give up. I think I know the chain you submitted to and I think your product is perfect for them.

I know you are an inventor and patent holder. Remember Edison. He failed a bunch even though he held almost 1100 patents. Don`t give up on this one.

R@

-------------------------

Richard Arnold · Key Concept Writers · Business Communication: The "Key" To Success· Law of Attraction Blog · Life Ain`t Brain Surgery Blog

I read once that you should be a like a cockroach and refuse to die.  The tip noted that cockroaches have survived for millions of years: through all sorts of world ending situations like volcanoes, floods, radiation, and also preditors, pesticides, etc.  When you get sprayed with a lethal dose of negativity you should just wipe off your little old antennae, find your bearings and keep moving toward the goodies.  And everytime you`re sprayed with negativity use it to strenghten your spirit, build up your tolerance and forge ahead!

Good luck, Chris. Hope the cockroach analogy cheers u up instead of grossing u out.

Thanks guys!

Richard - Yes, I will follow up with the buyer. I`ll write a letter tomorrow so I`m fresh in her mind. Hopefully I`ll get some hints as to why my products did not interest them. And you probably did guess the chain... country stores attached to restaurants.... hundrends of locations across the US... (sniff )

MiteyMite - Gee, even your username is insect-like. Well, mite`s aren`t insects per se. Or are they? Anyway, I liked the cockroach story. It makes sense! Thanks!

Just thought I`d let you all know I`m feeling a little bit better today as far as this goes. Thanks again!

Waking up to a new day is a good thing. A lot of folks didn`t.

R@

-------------------------

Richard Arnold · Key Concept Writers · Business Communication: The "Key" To Success· Law of Attraction Blog · Life Ain`t Brain Surgery Blog