Pets and Promoting Your Business

Think about if you were at a pet store and you were their to purchase your first pet. What qualities would you be looking for in a pet? Perhaps a certain age, disposition or sex? What are those distinct characteristics that would make you choose one animal over another? Maybe a certain color, or breed?

Selecting a pet is a personal decision because you are planning on having this animal become a part of your life. This animal would be a part of daily routine so you want to make sure you personalities connect well together.

And did you go into the pet store to pick up one particular pet but ended up purchasing a totally different one? If so, what made you change your mind?

Now think about your business. If someone is looking for your type of products or services, what is going to make them pick you over the next business owner who is in your industry?

A relevant story to share:

About 6 weeks ago, I came home from running errands to find a stray dog in my yard. I called him over and noticed he had a tag from the local shelter. So I called to find out he was “dropped” off and the owner was not wanting to be found (after many phone call attempts).

Anyway, I didn’t know how long this poor lil’ pup had been out in the heat (I live in FL). I got him some water while I tried to think about what I needed to do with him. Unfortunately, I am not able to keep him in our house because we rent and can’t have pets. So, I called the SPCA back and they told me to bring him to the local shelter the next day.

This meaning that yes, I did keep him overnight (shhh – don’t tell anyone).

Fast forward to the following day. I was taking my daughter and her friend over to my parents house for a day visit and on the way there I decided I would drop the dog off at the shelter.

Well, when I got to the shelter, we all got out of the car and started walking up the walkway toward the entrance. There was a lady sitting on a bench and when we passed, the dog stopped and went to “greet” her.

Now, I have to stop here and tell you, this dog had such a wonderful disposition, so well mannered (NEVER barked) and gentle.

Continuing with the story… As he approached this lady, she said, “well, aren’t you a cutie?” She continued by asking me, “Why are you dropping him off?” I responded by telling her the story of how he was “waiting” when we got home. She said, “Well, please don’t take him in yet. Can I spend a few minutes with him. I was looking for another animal but was waiting for someone until I went inside.”

I was glad to do it because my goal was to find a good loving home for this wonderful loving dog.

After spending a few minutes with this lovely dog, petting him and seeing his reactions to the attention (not jumping up and not barking) just wagging his tail like crazy, she said, you know what, “I don’t need to go inside, I have found my newest family member”. I was so happy that this dog found a home where we would be able to play (she told me she has a big fenced in back yard), be taking care of and had someone to play with (she had another dog).

Now why do you think this dog was chosen even before she went into the shelter?

1) He was being himself (displaying his personality and uniqueness)

2) He displayed the qualities (clean, quiet) and characteristics (playful, loving, gentle) this lady was looking for in a pet

3) The dog got along with the other dog (other members) with no immediate fighting or confrontation.

So what qualities and characteristics will you show to others so you will be chosen over others in your industry?

Your thoughts? Please share.

Teresa Morrow is on Board of Advisors with The WECAI Network ™ (http://www.wecai.org) and Editor at Large at WE Magazine for Women ™ (http://www.wemagazineforwomen). She has over 15 years working with various industries to include property management, landscape architecture and financial planning firms in executive administrative positions. In 2007, Teresa started Key Business Partners, a virtual assistance & online promotional company for coaches, speakers and writers. She cares about her clients and is available for 20 minute free consultation. You can contact her via email at keybusinesspartners@verizon.net or visit her website at http://www.keybusinesspartners.com .