SVA Forum

*Laura* · Joined: 06 Jan 2009 Posts: 15

Hello

I'm going to send a general letter out to some companies about the services I provide. Am going to start with charities and then training companies, as training and events is my background.

Has anyone tried this and was there any response? Ive put together a letter which Im happy with but who would you suggest addressing it to? I was thinking the office manager perhaps? I was going to do like a 'to whom it may concern' but is this a bit cold?

Many thanks

Laura
Virtual Matters Office and Secretarial Services

Sally@Stonetext · Posted: Wed May 27, 2009 8:19 pm Post subject:

I think you'd almost be better to do your research first about who to address the letters to (for each individual company) rather than a general "Office Manager" type intro, that way you can do your follow up properly as well. A generally addressed letter is more likely to be filed in the round bucket on the floor!! :cry:
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Above Parr · Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 9:38 am Post subject:

Hi

Sally is spot on I'm afraid, a fair few have tried (and failed miserably) with that technique so save yourself a fortune on stamps! Wink

I've just been through a "cunning plan" with my business mentor which in a nutshell is...

1. Find out who they are
2. Work out what they need
3. Decide how you fill that need
4. Tell them about it
5. Follow up
6. Get permission to stay in touch
7. Evaluate

Hope it helps, I'll happily elaborate if you want me to, just let me know!
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Sara Parr
Above Parr PA Services - Virtually Everything Done For You
www.aboveparr.co.uk

*Laura* · Joined: 06 Jan 2009 Posts: 15

Thanks very much, this is really useful. Would you recommend starting with the office manager or someone else?

Sally@Stonetext · Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 5:10 pm Post subject:

Hard to say as each business will be different, which is why I suggested you phone them first or research using council business contact lists, etc . In all my years I've only come across one "Office Manager" and that was in a legal office.

Some have had great success actually pounding the business centres, just knocking on doors and handing out leaflets and speaking to people if they are available/making appointments to contact at a later date. This is a bit intensive but provides that personal touch.
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Sally
Stonetext Online Admin Services www.stonetext.co.uk
Spida Web & Graphic Design www.spidawebdesign.co.uk

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