http://saundrahadley.com/2009/07/02/reader-question-how-do-i-get-my-first-paying-client/
Lots of lesson in this blog that can apply to the cake making world!
Excellent advice, Debi!!
I teach a business class for cake/dessert folk. Her suggestion to 'ask to be paid' is one of the first things I tell a student.
A thousand years ago when I was training to be an insurance agent (with one of the top two companies) we were taught to 'ask for the sale'. I've applied this to everything I've done since.
'
It can be as simple as "do you want to reserve now?" Or, now that we've worked out the details, how would you like to make your deposit?'
It doesn't matter how, just ask for the sale!!
That's me that linked to you, Debi. I went to the lady's blog...very good business info, she discusses a lot of stuff that I have researched on my own and in graduate school.
Then I linked to her and she sent me a funny message about me being smart for following her..lol.
Great advice! I'm starting to get a bit more brave with the confidence issue. Most of the time, I don't feel confident, but I fake it and think to myself: "Yes, I can make that cake. It may take me hours and hours but I can do it. " And then just try to believe I can. But I still feel scared the entire time and the finished product never matches my vision - but the customer has never complained. I hope it stays that way! (There goes my wavering confidence again!)
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