How to Focus on What Sells

Many designers want to begin their careers creating gift baskets with items that either are not appropriate for people who will buy or untested in the gift basket marketplace. I was one of those designers.

Large, plastic tooth molds and miniature fish tanks were two containers I believed would be popular. I conducted no research for these conclusions. Thank goodness neither were available for purchase. Instead, I settled down and focused on containers and designs that appealed to customers and sold quickly.

Concentrate on making designs trimmed with elegant enhancements that can be changed according to the theme. Then listen closely to what customers say and even more closely to what they don’t say to amaze them every time.

That’s what works overall. Perhaps this lesson is key to selling more of your designs.

Here are three more tips to make your cash register ring often.

1. Build up, not out. Tall designs sell quicker than wide ones. Elaine Essary’s gift basket, featured in The Gift Basket Design Book, is one example.

2. Get a sale, make a sale. Ask the customer for referral business, which may be found in his office building (other businesses, tenants, etc.) or as part of his professional organization (attorney, accountant, real estate groups, etc.).

3. Market, market everywhere. Mention the benefits of giving gift baskets to your bank’s manager, insurance agent, and other independent professionals with whom you know. Isn’t it time to recoup your money and help them build their businesses at the same time?

You’ll find more ideas at Gift Basket Articles. See the complete list of topics on this page.