Making the Personal Connection: Sell yourself not what you offer.

   I have a background in sales, way back when before I moved to South Florida and became a Police Officer and now Firefighter/Paramedic, I work for a Scuba Equipment and teaching business and I had the honor of working for 2 major motorcycle dealerships. I learned that people looking for a product had many choices of where to go and find said product. I learned that when someone goes looking to buy a service or product they want to make the purchase from someone they feel deserves their hard earned money.

   When a potential customer approaches you for a product or service, they want to know what they are obviously getting for their money. I can go on and on about how I have top of the line Canon Camera's and lenses, and how great my photos come out, and how I process the photos I take and yada, yada, yada. Guess what? There are thousands upon thousands of photographers that offer the same thing. 

Actually, theres a million photographers that are better then me and worse than me. The difference is how each photographer interacts with the potential customer face to face, over the phone or through email exchanges.

   I close most of the sale inquiries, I get because I happen to be personable. Im a people person and I can talk about a million things other than photography. When People approach me I make sure I take the time to answer all their questions, and offer advice when needed. I also make sure they feel at ease with me. When it comes to photography, especially wedding photography, people are letting you into their world on their special day, they want to feel as if your their friend and that you catch every perfect moment for them.

   A potential customer also has expectations. Its very important to explain what can and cant be done and be honest. I cant stress it more how educated consumers are becoming and trying to fool one is a huge mistake. Don't ever promise what you cant deliver. Its funny but I learned this from an employer of mine years ago in New York City. "If you treat a customer right they wont tell anyone, if you treat a customer wrong, they'll tell the world". This is a fact I live by. I want my customers to feel confident they can refer me to their family and friends, and I often remind them after a job to please let anyone know about me if they are happy with my services. 

   I make it a good practice to listen to my customers needs. You cant always assume that every wedding is going to be the same or that every engagement session is going to be the same, etc. You have to pay attention to the customers needs, and being photography listen to their creative input. Although, I may be the photographer, they might actually play the role of director and want a certain feel or look to their photos. I always make the effort to try and give the customer exactly what they want within reason, when I cant I explain why and usually the customer will agree.

    In conclusion, in whatever business your in, you have to make a personal connection with your potential customer, make every attempt to satisfy your customers needs and provide him or her with the best services you can provide, but also the best possible experience as well.

Alfredo V.

Maternity Photo on the Beach in Pompano Beach across the street from my home.
LauderdalePhotography.Com, Couture Bridal Photography, Alfredo V. Photography