My internet activity has taken a back seat in the last few days.

Unfortunately, this happens from time to time – due to the reality of “real world” business.

The cool thing is, real world busy-ness usually means there are some big profits around the corner.

Why?

It is still enormously easier to make money as an entrepreneur in the “real world”. If you’re struggling, then use these three tactics to bring in more profits:

1. Find a new reason to have a chat with your customers and their friends/colleagues

This could be anything from a new mail or email campaign… or simply phoning them up for a chat. The “excuse” for the “point of contact” is simple – you’ve just made a “development” that you think they need to know about.

In the world of consulting, this tactic is worth thousands. I regularly use it to meet new people connected to my existing clients.

The phone call goes like this:

“Hey client! How’s things?

I know you weren’t expecting to hear from me for a while, but I’ve just had something come up that I wanted to talk to you about first.

I’m developing a new sales programme and I need some real world expertise… I was hoping I could schedule a coffee with the Sales Manager in your business and pick his brain.

In return for the favour, I thought it’d be cool to do a psychological assessment of the Sales Teams core capabilities and strategies… all for free, as a thank you.

Do you think it’d be appropriate for me to give him a call? What was his number?”

… and just like that, I meet a new potential client. By doing a bit of stuff for free, I’ll have the opportunity to sell them something else.

2. Ask for testimonials

Some people think this is weird – because asking for a testimonial usually signifies the END of a customer relationship.

WRONG!

Giving a testimonial is the thing that happens right before you get some juicy referrals.

While you’re asking your client all about what they loved and didn’t like, you can start to get a clear picture of the kind of people they believe your product is perfect for.

Then ask them if they know any other people like that. Start writing down numbers, business names or emails!

3. Do research and give people cool facts

So you’ve got some spare time.

Why not go on an enormous google mission and put together a “swipe file” of hot resources that will help your customers?

If you’re in the business of helping businesses, this article could be in that swipe file.

If you’re in the cafe business, find a really cool article about how coffee is made and email it out to all the people on your database. (you’ve got a database right?!)

People love information – so long as it is relevant and they’ve given you permission to contact them.

This is just another little trick that makes you look good, while keeping you “top of mind” with your customers.

Difficult to measure, but my experience is that this technique can result in a instant 10% increase in referrals.

Hope these help – if you’re struggling to apply these tactics to your unique industry/niche/business then speak up in the comment section below for some tailored advice!