17 short inspirational quotes that’ll make you think

12/17/2024 by

Today I offer you 17 short inspirational quotes, which I’m confident will get you thinking about your life and what you want out of it.

You have more potential than you realise. You can be more than you are now.

Just decide how far you want to go, and then don’t stop until you get there.

Plenty of people succeed in life. You can too. Believe in yourself, work hard, and focus your time and energy on the things that really matter to you.

It’s perfectly reasonable to pursue your agenda. Never assume that someone else will be looking after your interests. They won’t! You’ve got to do that yourself.

Be the best version of yourself.

And be inspired by these 17 short inspirational quotes.

Short inspirational quotes (1-10):

  1. What we think, we become. ~Buddha
  2. Reach for the stars. ~Christa McAuliffe
  3. My mind’s my kingdom. ~Francis Quarles
  4. Think with your whole body. ~Taisen Deshimaru
  5. Each day provides its own gifts. ~Marcus Aurelius
  6. I am deliberate and afraid of nothing. ~Audre Lorde
  7. Our ideals are our better selves. ~Amos Bronson Alcott
  8. Let each man exercise the art he knows. ~Aristophanes
  9. For a gallant spirit, there can never be defeat. ~Wallis Simpson
  10. Act like you expect to get into the end zone. ~Christopher Morley

Short inspirational quotes (11-17):

  1. Your big opportunity may be right where you are now. ~Napoleon Hill
  2. You have to rule the money. Don’t let money rule you. ~Fil Adams-Mercer
  3. The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have. ~Vince Lombardi
  4. Marriage is an investment that pays dividends if you pay interest. ~Bob Monkhouse
  5. Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. ~Robert Louis Stevenson
  6. On days when I don’t work, I am working on maintaining my image, just like an athlete. ~Linda Evangelista
  7. I would perceive three years at university as a waste of time. I would have made £200,000 by then. ~Lord Sugar

Please share these quotes with your friends:

Did you find these short inspirational quotes interesting, dear reader? Did they make you think?

If they did then perhaps this blog post might interest others you know too.

Please share this post with your friends on social media because when you share, everyone wins.

And if you could share this post now, I would be ever so grateful.

Like every blogger, I can only keep doing what I do if readers are viewing my blog posts. So you really can help me, dear reader.

Thank you.

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Steve Jobs’ Top 10 Rules For Success to inspire you

12/16/2024 by

If you’re looking for the Top 10 Rules for Success, many people will give you a list.

However, no two lists will ever be the same. And few people have real experience of success anyway. Surely the only people worth listening to are those who’ve been there and done it? People who are genuinely successful by any measure.

And so to today’s underlying message.

My point is that if you want success, then you’d be wise to look for successful people and copy what they do.

If it worked for them, then the chances are it can work for you too.

The late Steve Jobs is not only an icon, but he was also a great role model to use as your template for achieving real success.

This is the man who made Apple what it is. So, he’s worth listening to.

In the embedded video, Steve Jobs offers his Top 10 Rules for Success. I recommend that you watch this video; it is inspirational and well worth a few minutes of your time.

Top 10 Rules for Success

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How to Tie a Tie Step by Step: An Easy Guide for Beginners Draft

12/15/2024 by

It’s that time of year when festivities require us to dress up. So, you might be looking for guidance on how to tie a tie step by step. If that’s the case, this article has been written just for you.

Learning to tie a tie is a valuable skill for any well-dressed person. Whether you’re preparing for a job interview, attending a wedding, or want to look sharp, knowing how to tie a tie can make a big difference.

The easiest and most common method for beginners is the Four-in-Hand knot, which creates a simple, classic look suitable for most occasions.

There are several types of tie knots to choose from, each with its difficulty level and style. The Windsor and Half-Windsor knots are popular choices for more formal events, while the Four-in-Hand is versatile enough for everyday wear. With practice, anyone can master these techniques and add a touch of elegance to their outfit.

Tying a tie may seem daunting at first, but it’s a skill that can be learned quickly with the right guidance. By following step-by-step instructions and practising regularly, you’ll soon be able to tie a necktie with confidence and ease. Let’s explore some of the most common tie knots and how to achieve them.

Key Takeaways

  • Learning to tie a tie is an essential skill for formal and professional settings.
  • The Four-in-Hand knot is the simplest and most versatile option for beginners.
  • Regular practice helps perfect tie-tying techniques for various knot styles.

How to tie a tie step by step

Understanding the Basics

Tying a tie involves knowing about different tie styles, parts, and knot types. These elements work together to create a polished look.

Types of Ties

Neckties come in various styles to suit different occasions. The classic necktie is the most common, typically 3-4 inches wide and 57-58 inches long. Skinny ties are narrower, usually 2-3 inches wide.

Bow ties offer a more formal option, often seen at black-tie events. They require a different tying technique than standard neckties.

Ascots and cravats are less common but add a touch of elegance to formal daywear.

Components of a Tie

A tie consists of several key parts:

  • Blade: The wide, visible front part
  • Tail: The narrower back section
  • Tip: The pointed end of the blade
  • Loop: The fabric strip on the back for securing the tail
  • Interlining: Internal material that gives the tie structure

The blade and tail lengths can vary, affecting the tie’s appearance when knotted. Quality ties often feature a slip stitch allowing them to maintain their shape.

Types of Knots

Several tie knots exist, each suited to different collar styles and occasions:

  1. Four-in-Hand: Simple, versatile, and suitable for most collars
  2. Half Windsor: Triangular, balanced knot for spread collars
  3. Full Windsor: Large, symmetrical knot for wide-spread collars
  4. Pratt (Shelby): Medium-sized knot, good for light to medium fabrics
  5. Bow Tie: Used for formal events and tuxedos

The choice of knot depends on factors like tie fabric, shirt collar, and personal style. Mastering a few basic knots provides flexibility for various situations.

Preparation for Tying a Tie

Getting ready to tie a tie involves two key steps. These steps ensure you have the right foundation for a polished look.

Selecting the Correct Tie Length

The right tie length is crucial for a neat appearance. A tie should reach the top of your belt buckle when tied. For most men, this means choosing a tie between 57 and 59 inches long.

Taller men may need longer ties, while shorter men can opt for slightly shorter ones. When shopping, look for ties labelled “regular” or “extra-long” based on your height.

Before tying, drape the tie around your neck. The wide end should hang about 12 inches lower than the narrow end. This gives you enough length to work with as you tie the knot.

Dress Shirt and Collar Considerations

The dress shirt forms the backdrop for your tie. Choose a shirt with a collar that complements your face shape and the occasion.

For formal occasions, opt for a spread collar or point collar shirt. These work well with most tie knots. Button the shirt up, including the top button.

Make sure your collar stays crisp. Use collar stays if your shirt has slots for them. This keeps the collar points in place and helps the tie sit neatly.

Before tying, fold up your shirt collar. This makes it easier to adjust the tie as you work. Once tied, fold the collar back down for a clean look.

Tying the Four-in-Hand Knot

The Four-in-Hand knot is a classic tie knot known for its simplicity and versatility. It works well for most shirt collars and tie fabrics, making it a go-to choice for many occasions, including job interviews.

Step-By-Step Guide

  1. Drape the tie around your neck. The wide end should hang about 12 inches lower than the narrow end.
  2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  3. Bring the wide end behind the narrow end.
  4. Pull the wide end up and push it through the loop behind the narrow end.
  5. Hold the front of the knot loosely with your index finger and bring the wide end down through the front loop.
  6. Tighten the knot by holding the narrow end and sliding the knot up to the collar.
  7. Adjust the dimple in the tie by pinching it just below the knot.

Tips for Mastery

Practice is key to perfecting the Four-in-Hand knot. Try different tie fabrics and thicknesses to see how they affect the final look.

For job interviews, choose a tie width that matches your lapel width. This creates a balanced, professional appearance.

Adjust the length so the tip of the tie just reaches your belt buckle. Too long or short can look sloppy.

Remember to create a dimple in the tie just below the knot. This adds a touch of sophistication to your look.

Tying the Windsor and Half-Windsor Knots

The Windsor and Half-Windsor knots are popular tie styles for formal occasions. These knots create a symmetrical triangular shape at the neck, with the Full Windsor being slightly larger than its half counterpart.

Full Windsor Knot Procedure

The Full Windsor knot is large and symmetrical, perfect for wide collar spreads. To tie it:

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on the right.
  2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  3. Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop.
  4. Pull it down to the left and behind the narrow end.
  5. Bring the wide end up and over to the right.
  6. Pull it through the neck loop again.
  7. Pass the wide end across the front from right to left.
  8. Bring it up through the neck loop one last time.
  9. Insert the wide end down through the knot in front.
  10. Adjust and tighten the knot.

This knot is ideal for weddings and very formal events.

Half-Windsor Knot Method

The Half-Windsor knot is slightly smaller but still elegant. To tie it:

  1. Start with the wide end on the right, about 12 inches lower than the narrow end.
  2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  3. Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop from behind.
  4. Bring the wide end down to the left.
  5. Pass it behind the narrow end to the right.
  6. Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop again.
  7. Pass the wide end through the knot in front.
  8. Adjust the knot and tighten.

This versatile knot works well for most formal occasions and business settings.

Tying Other Popular Knots

Beyond the basic tie knots, there are several stylish options to elevate your look. These knots offer unique shapes and textures for different occasions and personal preferences.

The Pratt Knot

The Pratt Knot is a medium-sized knot that works well with most collar styles. It’s easier to tie than the Windsor but dressier than the Four-in-Hand.

To tie a Pratt Knot:

  1. Start with the tie inside out, wide end on your right.
  2. Cross the wide end under the narrow end.
  3. Bring the wide end up and push it down through the loop behind the narrow end.
  4. Pull the wide end to the right and pass it around behind the narrow end.
  5. Bring the wide end up and push it down through the loop in front.
  6. Hold the front of the knot loose with your index finger and pass the wide end down through the front.
  7. Remove your finger and tighten the knot carefully.

The Pratt Knot is versatile for both casual and formal occasions.

The Kelvin Knot

The Kelvin Knot is less common but offers a unique look. It’s similar to the Four-in-Hand but with an extra twist that creates a slight dimple.

Steps for tying a Kelvin Knot:

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on your right.
  2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  3. Bring the wide end up and push it down through the loop behind the narrow end.
  4. Bring the wide end to the right, then pass it behind the narrow end to the left.
  5. Bring the wide end up again and pass it down through the loop in front.
  6. Hold the knot loose and pass the wide end down through the front of the knot.
  7. Adjust and tighten carefully.

The Kelvin Knot works well with lighter fabrics and narrower ties.

Exotic Knots: Eldredge and Trinity

For those seeking a bold statement, the Eldredge and Trinity knots offer intricate designs.

The Eldredge Knot is complex but eye-catching:

  1. Start with the thin end as the active end.
  2. Create multiple loops and tucks to form a braided appearance.
  3. Finish by tucking the thin end behind the collar.

The Trinity Knot forms a three-sided shape:

  1. Begin with the wide end on the right, about 1.5 times longer than desired.
  2. Create three loops, each forming one side of the triangle.
  3. Tuck the wide end through the neck loop and adjust.

These knots are best for special events and paired with solid-coloured ties.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Mastering tie-tying involves more than just learning knots. Proper care and problem-solving skills are key to a polished look.

Tie Care and Maintenance

To keep ties looking their best, hang them on a tie rack after each use. This helps the fabric relax and regain its shape. Avoid leaving knots tied, as this can cause permanent creases.

When travelling, roll ties gently and place them in a protective case. This prevents wrinkles and damage.

For silk ties, spot clean with water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or dry cleaning too often. Steam can help remove light wrinkles.

Store ties away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Rotate your tie collection to distribute wear evenly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If a tie is too long, try a different knot. The Windsor or Half-Windsor knots use more fabric, making the tie appear shorter.

For a crooked knot, adjust the dimple. Pinch the fabric just below the knot while tightening to create a straight, centred dimple.

To fix a loose knot, tighten it from the narrow end. Gently pull the skinny part while holding the knot in place.

If the tie is too short, loosen the knot and readjust. Ensure the wide end hangs at the right length before tightening.

For stubborn wrinkles, use a cool iron with a cloth barrier. Press gently to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.

Alternatives to Traditional Ties

Neck accessories offer stylish options beyond classic neckties. Two popular choices are bow ties and clip-on ties. These alternatives can add flair to formal and casual outfits alike.

How to Tie a Bow Tie

Tying a bow tie adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. It’s a skill worth mastering for special events.

Start by draping the bow tie around your neck. The ends should hang evenly on both sides. Cross the longer end over the shorter end.

Loop the longer end up and behind the shorter end. Pull it through the neck loop and down in front. This forms the basic bow shape.

Fold the hanging end into a bow shape. Bring the other end down in front of it. Pinch the centre and push it through the loop behind the bow.

Adjust both sides of the bow to even them out. Tug gently on the loops to tighten. With practice, you’ll perfect this classic look.

Using Clip-On Ties

Clip-on ties offer a quick and easy alternative for those who struggle with traditional knots. They’re especially useful for job interviews or weddings when time is short.

These ties come pre-tied with a clip attachment. Simply fasten the clip to your collar, adjusting it to sit comfortably at your neck.

Clip-on ties are available in various styles, including regular ties and bow ties. They often look similar to traditionally knotted ties.

While convenient, clip-ons may not suit all formal occasions. For important events, learning to tie a real knot is recommended.

Conclusion

Learning to tie a tie is a valuable skill. With practice, anyone can master different necktie knots. The four-in-hand, Windsor, and half-Windsor are popular choices.

Each knot has its look and style. The four-in-hand works well for most occasions. The Windsor creates a wider, more formal knot. The half-Windsor offers a balanced option.

Choosing the right knot depends on the shirt collar, tie fabric and event type. A well-tied tie can enhance any outfit and boost confidence.

Remember to adjust the length and tighten the knot carefully. The tip of the tie should reach the belt buckle.

Regular practice improves speed and skill. Soon, tying a tie becomes second nature.

Properly cared-for ties last longer. Untie knots after wearing and hang ties to prevent wrinkles.

With these steps and tips, anyone can confidently tie a necktie for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tying a tie can seem tricky at first. These common questions cover different knots, techniques, and tips to help you master this essential skill.

What is the simplest way to tie a tie for beginners?

The Four-in-Hand knot is the easiest for beginners. It works well with most collar styles and tie fabrics.

To tie it, start with the wide end on your right side. Cross the wide end over the thin end. Wrap it around and bring it up through the neck loop.

Pull it down through the front knot. Adjust and tighten by sliding the knot up.

Can you explain the Windsor knot-tying process?

The Windsor knot creates a wide, triangular knot. It’s good for spread collars and formal events.

Start with the wide end on your right, about 12 inches lower than the thin end. Cross the wide part over the thin end.

Bring the wide end up and through the neck loop. Then down to the left.

Next, pass it behind the thin end to the right. Bring it up and through the neck loop again.

Pull it down through the front of the knot. Adjust for symmetry and tightness.

How do you tie a tie with detailed visual instructions?

Step-by-step diagrams can be very helpful for learning to tie a tie. They show each move clearly.

Look for guides with numbered steps and clear images. These often work better than text alone.

Video tutorials are also great. You can pause and replay as needed while practising.

What steps are involved in tying a tie for school?

For school uniforms, a simple knot like the Four-in-Hand often works best. It’s quick and easy to learn.

Start with the tie around your neck, wide end on the right. Cross the wide end over the thin end.

Loop the wide end behind and bring it up through the neck opening. Pass it down through the front loop.

Tighten by holding the thin end and sliding the knot up. Straighten it out and you’re ready for class.

Is there a straightforward method to tie a tie suitable for girls?

Girls can use the same tie-tying methods as boys. The Four-in-Hand knot is a good starting point.

Adjust the tie length as needed. The wide end should reach about the middle of the belt buckle when done.

Practice in front of a mirror. This helps with getting the right length and symmetry.

What techniques are recommended for tying a tie without assistance?

To tie a tie alone, practice in front of a mirror. This lets you see what you’re doing clearly.

Start with the tie draped around your neck, not buttoned to your collar. This gives more room to work.

Use a clip-on tie or pre-tied option if you’re in a hurry or struggle with manual dexterity.

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Nostalgia Poem: Reminiscing put into perspective

12/14/2024 by

If you’re looking for a nostalgia poem, I’ve written one today just for you.

As I’m sure you will appreciate, dear reader, nostalgia is a bittersweet longing for the past. Memories of days gone by when life seemed so much better. It wasn’t, of course. It just seems that way now. We remember the good times, and we can even laugh at the bad times, as they never seem quite so bad looking back.

Nostalgia is a deeply human emotion. We derive comfort from familiar memories. It provides us with certainty and a sense of security in a world that frequently feels uncertain.

By reminiscing and revisiting the past, we can find solace, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

Whether it’s listening to old songs, watching classic films, visiting old places, or simply recalling youthful experiences, nostalgia allows us to escape the present and connect with what seems like a simpler time.

Above all, nostalgia is a way we can celebrate the beauty of life’s journey, acknowledging both its joys and sorrows.

So, here is my nostalgia poem. If you like it, please feel free to share it.

NOSTALGIA POEM

Nostalgia Poem

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12 brilliant original Limericks written just for you

12/13/2024 by

If you’re looking for original limericks, then look no further.

If you enjoy the style of poems known as limericks, here are 12 original ones just for you, dear reader.

They’re all written by me. So, definitely original limericks. I hope you enjoy them.

If they do appeal to you, please feel free to share them.

ORIGINAL LIMERICKS

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So, dear reader, did you enjoy any of these original limericks? I hope you did anyway.

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Here’s a truly brilliant don’t quit poem to inspire you

12/12/2024 by

If you’re looking for a ‘don’t quit poem’ to inspire you, I have a brilliant one for you.

Many people aspire to success, but it can be hard to keep going.

You want success, but do you want it badly enough to pay the price?

Yes, of course. There’s always a price to be paid.

More importantly, the price must always be paid first.

That price is not necessarily paid in money. Usually, the price is paid in blood, sweat, and tears.

A little more effort

How often do people quit when they would have achieved their goal with a little more effort or a few more steps?

I have no scientific data to support my conclusion, but I suspect it happens frequently. Wouldn’t you agree?

Certainly from anecdotal evidence I have, from talking to people I know, this is the case.

People start on a project or goal with enthusiasm. They think it’s all going to be easy. Then it proved to be a bit harder than they imagined, so they quit. Is that an experience to which you can relate, dear reader?

We must all accept that nothing worth having is ever easy to gain. As I said, there’s a price to be paid.

Nevertheless, people do succeed all the time. So if other people can succeed, why not you?

Decide on your goal, pursue it with determination and energy, and if it all starts to get a bit hard, just don’t quit until you get to where you want to be in life.

Don’t quit and you can succeed; quit and you won’t.

The last thing you want is to spend your life wondering what might have been. So keep going.

To inspire you when the challenge gets hard, here’s a memorable and thought-provoking poem by the late Robert Service, the so-called ‘Bard of the Yukon’. It’s called The Quitter and it’s reprinted here to inspire you today.

Don’t Quit Poem

 

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10 original Limerick poems for your entertainment

12/11/2024 by

Today I’ve written 10 Limerick poems just for you, dear reader. They’re all original and written by me. I hope you enjoy them all.

Please feel free to share them.

Limerick Poems

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It’s always a good idea to pass on the smiles. So please, share it now.

Thank you.

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Why an investment in knowledge pays dividends

12/10/2024 by

Today I want to explain why an investment in gaining knowledge is important and should be considered seriously.

Investment in knowledge

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. ~Benjamin Franklin

You don’t get paid for the hour; you get paid for the value you put into the hour. Everyone must understand that important distinction, dear reader.

You get paid for the value you add.

The more value you can add, the more you’ll get paid over time.

It’s really that simple.

If you can solve problems for people with the skills you’ve got, then you can earn an excellent living.

The question is, what underpins your skills and your ability to add value? The answer to that question would be knowledge, of course.

Knowledge comes from learning, and learning is a lifelong process.

Learning is an investment

The quote at the top of this post from the venerable Benjamin Franklin reminds us of the importance of learning. Learning is an investment in ourselves.

We all have an enormous capacity to consume and retain knowledge in our heads, and that knowledge is then a currency with which we can trade. The more knowledge we have, the more value we can add.

When it comes to investing, nothing will pay you a better dividend than making sure you have a good education. And I stress that it’s a lifelong process. It doesn’t end when you leave school or college.

And it’s not about whether or not you went to college or university. Important as they may be, learning can be achieved in many ways.

Self-education is the best education

Knowledge can be gained through reading books, listening to audio and video tutorials, and challenging yourself to master anything that appeals to you.

Learning from hands-on experience, making mistakes, and learning the lessons you can take from any mistakes you’ve made.

In particular, if you want to master the game of money and all matters financial, then you need to become a seeker of financial knowledge and know-how.

You need to become a reader and a keen student of finance. To be successful in investing, of course, you need to know what you’re doing. You need financial education.

The price of ignorance

If you think that education is expensive, then think again. The price of ignorance is far greater.

Ignorance can prove to be very costly indeed. And that’s true in every aspect of your life.

Getting an education may seem expensive, but it’s nowhere near as expensive as ignorance.

So, if you’re not already, become a reader.

The investment in yourself is well worth the effort, and it’ll pay you a handsome dividend.

As the late, great Jim Rohn once said:

“Work harder on yourself than you do on your job.”

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investment in knowledge, investment in knowledge, investment in knowledge, investment in knowledge

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How to sell anything to anybody and make money

12/09/2024 by

Selling is a subject that often gets a bad name. Some people even look down on those who make their living by selling.

However, we’re all trying to sell something all the time. Even if it’s just the skills we have or a service we can provide. Let’s face it, if we’re to make a living, we must sell something. If you think about it, I’m sure you’ll agree, dear reader.

Learning the art of successful selling is very important. Everyone should hone their selling skills, even if it’s just to sell themselves effectively.

Selling is a process, and by learning a few simple techniques, you can improve your ability to sell.

So what are these techniques?

How to sell anything to anybody

1. Know your product:

Ultimately, it’s all about the product.

If you want to sell anything successfully, you must know your product. You must believe in the product too.

That product has to be something that you would buy yourself.

You need to know the product in detail. You need to know the features and benefits. You must be able to explain the advantages and the disadvantages.

Then you need to know all about your competitors’ products that your customers could buy as an alternative to your own.

This is important if you are to position your product against that of the competition and counter any reasons given by your customers as to why they might be reluctant to buy from you.

You need to be able to talk about your product favourably, relative to any other options that may be available to your customer.

2. Know the problem your product solves:

Ultimately, every product must solve a problem for the customer. A product must make the customer’s life easier in some way.

If a product doesn’t solve a problem for the target customer, why would they buy it? Why would any customer part with their money unless the product made their life easier?

So it’s simple. You must have a good understanding of the problem or problems for which your product can be an excellent solution.

And you must be able to explain this in simple, straightforward language.

3. Capture buying intent:

Cold-calling is the most inefficient and soul-destroying sales approach there could possibly be. Phoning or door-stepping people and saying, “Want to buy this?” will have a low success rate.

The key to successful selling is capturing warm sales leads. In other words, you must capture buying intent.

If a customer walks into a shirt shop, then you know they’re looking for a shirt, and therefore you have a very good chance of selling them one.

So find ways to engage people who are actively looking for something like the product you are selling.

To do this, you’ll need to ensure that your customers and potential customers have visibility of your product.

You must raise awareness of the product, as well as the features and benefits and the value it offers. You must create desirability too.

4. Know the customer’s needs:

Your product should have a target customer. You must know the sort of person for whom the product offers an ideal solution.

In other words, you must know who the product is aimed at and what their needs are likely to be.

To understand the customer’s needs, you may need to ask some questions first.

For instance, using the shirt-selling example again, a customer may be looking for something to wear for a formal occasion, or perhaps they’re looking for something more casual. You want to ensure that the shirt you sell them is right for their needs.

So you must identify the ways in which your product will satisfy the customer’s needs because, if you make a sale, you want the customer to feel they’ve got exactly what they wanted.

You want to ensure that they get a good buying experience. You certainly don’t want them to feel like they’ve been cheated in some way.

5. Build trust with the customer:

Trust matters, particularly when selling big-ticket items.

Customers need to feel that they can trust you to deliver a quality product and provide excellent after-sales service.

Far too often, people pay good money only to be let down. So naturally, they’re wary of salespeople, particularly when high-value products and services are involved.

Take the time to build trust with customers and reassure them that they will get what they’re paying for, and, should there be any problems at all, you will be there to ensure any such problems are resolved quickly and efficiently and at no cost to the customer.

Building trust with customers will pay dividends.

6. Sell the benefits:

You don’t sell the product to the customer; you sell the benefits and the problems that it solves.

In what ways will your product improve the customer’s life?

In what ways will your product potentially be an answer to the customer’s prayers?

In what ways does your product offer excellent value for money?

You don’t have to be the cheapest on the market, but you must convince a customer that it makes sense to buy your product rather than simply going for the cheapest product on the market.

Customers won’t part with their money unless they believe your product will add value to them somehow.

7. Know why your product is their best option:

Now, dear reader, if you’re in business, I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that it’s a highly competitive world out there.

Put simply, today’s customers have plenty of options.

You must be able to convince a customer as to why your product is their best option.

If you’ve got a good story to tell about your product, you can stimulate the customer’s interest.

And once you’ve got the customer interested, you can gently apply pressure to close the sale.

And don’t be shy when it comes to applying pressure gradually.

Business is business, and if you don’t close the sale, you can be sure that someone else will.

There’s an art to knowing how much pressure to apply, of course.

You shouldn’t push too hard because that can result in a negative reaction from the customer.

It can also leave customers feeling like they’ve been sold something they didn’t need.

If that happens, you’ve made a sale but lost a customer. That’s counter-productive.

The last thing you want is an unhappy customer because they’re likely to tell a lot of people about a bad experience.

Bad publicity and customers badmouthing you can hurt your business if you’re not careful. I’m sure you know that, but it’s worth repeating.

Conclusion:

No business or individual can succeed without making sales.

If it’s your job to sell, then you’ve got to sell. And if you don’t sell, you’ve failed. Simple!

If you don’t make sales and meet your targets, then the result is likely to be that you’ll lose your job very quickly.

Business can be an unforgiving environment, as I’m sure you’re only too well aware, dear reader.

No company can afford the luxury of having people on the payroll who don’t deliver the results for which they are paid.

And let’s face it, we’re all paid to deliver results.

In order to sell, the question to which you must have the perfect answer is:

“Why should the customer buy my product?“

If you’ve got a good answer and you’ve targeted the right customer with buying intent, then you’ve got a good chance of making a sale.

You also want to be confident that you can leave the customer feeling that in exchange for the money they’ve spent, they’ve received good value and a good buying experience.

So learn the art of successful selling. It will pay you a handsome dividend.

Please share this post with your friends:

If you found this article useful, then please share it on social media with your friends. When you share, everyone wins.

So please share it now. If you do, I will be ever so grateful, and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

You’ll be helping your friends, and you’ll be helping me too. So you really can make a difference to the lives of others.

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21 inspiring quotes from inspiring people

12/05/2024 by

If you want success, listen to successful people. That means people who will inspire you. It means people who’ve been there and done it. In other words, people who know how it’s done.

Here are 21 inspiring quotes from inspiring people to get you started and get you thinking.

These are some of my favourite quotes, so I hope you enjoy them all.

Please feel free to pass them on.

Inspiring Quotes (1-10):

  1. Believe you can and you’re halfway there. ~Theodore Roosevelt
  2. It’s never too late to be what you might have been. ~George Eliot
  3. There’s nothing impossible to him who will try. ~Alexander the Great
  4. Change your thoughts and you change your world. ~Norman Vincent Peale
  5. We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone. ~Ronald Reagan
  6. It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped. ~Tony Robbins
  7. Emotions will either serve or master, depending on who is in charge. ~Jim Rohn
  8. Don’t lose hope. You never know what tomorrow will bring. ~Michael Josephson
  9. No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world. ~Robin Williams
  10. The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today. ~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Inspiring Quotes (11-21):

  1. Often times the brightest rainbows follow the darkest rainstorms. ~Michael Josephson
  2. Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow. ~A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
  3. Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. ~Robert Louis Stevenson
  4. Be careful with your words. Once they are said, they can be only forgiven, not forgotten. ~Michael Josephson
  5. Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world. ~Desmond Tutu
  6. Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of becoming. ~Goethe
  7. Procrastination is one of the most common and deadliest diseases, and its toll on success and happiness is heavy. ~Wayne Gretzky
  8. When you compete with someone as good or better than you, you may not always win, but you never lose. ~Michael Josephson
  9. Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all. ~Dale Carnegie
  10. The one who follows the crowd will usually get no further than the crowd. The one who walks alone is likely to find himself in places no one has ever been. ~Albert Einstein
  11. When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down happy. They told me I didn’t understand the assignment, and I told them they didn’t understand life. ~John Lennon

Please share these quotes with your friends:

If you found these quotes thought-provoking and interesting, please share this post on social media with your friends.

When you share, everyone wins.

So go on, please share this post now. If you can do that for me, I’ll be ever so grateful, and you’ll be helping a keen blogger reach a wider audience.

Thank you.

Articles you might also enjoy:

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