As a wedding planner, you probably write and follow a lot of “to-do” lists. The October 2011 issue of Inc. magazine suggests that business owners learn the importance of having a list of things you “don’t do” and asked business leaders to share their “don’t do” lists. I’ve selected 4 “don’t do” items that make sense for wedding planners and added some explanations:
1) Don’t meet with a potential client and say, “here’s what I’m selling”
When you meet with a bride, don’t just repeat what is in your brochure and on your website. Listen to her, learn about her wedding, and find out why she wanted to meet with you. You’ve got to get her talking before you can figure out how you can help her and get her to hire you.
2) Don’t close the door if a potential client doesn’t hire you right away
It could be that the timing may be wrong or a bride might not believe she has the money right now. Stay in touch with your her through your ezine or an occasional email or postcard that includes some wedding planning tips so that she remembers you. She may decide to hire you later, or give your name to a friend to is ready to hire a wedding planner.
3) Don’t try to follow everyone’s advice
When you start your wedding planning business, a lot of people are going to give you their opinions and feedback, many of whom have never been in the wedding and event planning business. Some of whom have never even had a business. Listen to experts in your field and do your own research. Then follow what you believe will work for you.
4) Don’t put off evaluating how your business is doing
When your business is up and running, don’t keep doing the same things over and over if they’re not working for you. Take the time to figure out different ways to be successful. For example, if you run ads on wedding websites, take a look at your statistics and see if your investment is really working for you. If it is, you might want to find other sites that can bring you similar success. If it isn’t, you might want to spend more time and money exhibiting at bridal shows, keeping up your blog, or finding new wedding professionals to network with.
To read all of the “don’t do” lists, visit the Inc. magazine website.
