Time Is of the Essence 

Everyone has too little time and is very guarded about who they give it to. Although many of us in sales say, I’ll only need a minute of your time, few prospects buy that.

Rather than attempting to pressure someone out of his valuable time, impress him with your creativity. Send a small one-minute hourglass or timer. Attach a note with your business card that says:

• All I need is one minute of your time!

• I realize how important a minute of your time is.

• I know your time is of the essence. All I need is a minute.

This is a way to minimize your prospect’s resistance. You’ve made him stand up and take notice; you’ve done something unique and creative. He will probably see you just because you made the creative effort. Take the timer with you to the initial meeting, put it on the desk, and be sure you can deliver your pitch before it goes off!