50 marketing mistakes / Mistake #22
Mistake #22 of 50Don’t be afraid to ask for the order.
It’s okay to say, “Would you like us to get this started?”
What it costs you
Being remembered doesn’t pay the bills.
You did everything right. Good quote. Good conversation. They like you.
Then you say, “Let me know if you have any questions,” and you let them walk out the door.
You can’t pay the bills with being thought of.
What pays the bills is the appointment booked, the order signed, the phone ringing.
If you never ask, you’re hoping they’ll remember to ask you. Most people are too busy.
A real example
“See you next time”
Picture two dental offices. Same cleaning. Same friendly staff.
At the first one, the patient walks up to the front desk. “You’re all set. See you next time!”
Next time never gets booked. Six months turns into a year. Then two.
At the second one: “The doctor wants to see you in six months. How’s Tuesday the 14th at 9?”
“Sure, that works.”
One office said goodbye. The other one asked for the order.
Same patient. Same office hours. One question made the difference.
Why it happens
Why the ask never comes out
Every one of those leaves the sale on the table.
Do this instead
Ask. Then stop talking.
Everything you do should end with one clear next step. On a pen, that’s a line and your number. In person, it’s one simple question. Say it once, say it with a smile, and wait for the answer.
| The moment | What to say |
|---|---|
| The quote is in their hands | “Would you like us to get this started?” |
| The appointment is over | “Let’s get your next one on the calendar. How’s the 14th?” |
| They say, “It looks good” | “Great. Want me to put you on the schedule?” |
| They’re still deciding | “What would help you decide today?” |
| The follow-up call | “My schedule is filling up. Want me to hold a spot for you?” |
| The thing you hand them | A line that asks for the call, with your number right under it. |
Write your ask down. One sentence, in your own words. Then teach it to everybody who talks to customers, so it gets asked every single time, not just when somebody remembers.
Do this today
- 1
Think of the last three people who got a quote and never answered.
- 2
Call each one today.
- 3
Answer their questions, then ask: “Would you like us to get this started?”
- 4
Write your one-sentence ask on a card, and tape it next to the phone.
They already like you. Now ask for the order.
From the book
Chapter 9: The Silent Call to Action
Starts on page 87. The whole chapter, plus 250+ ways to market your business, in the free book.
Download the free bookIdeas that fix it
Things that ask for the call.
Idea 4 · book page 263Follow Up on Every Open QuoteFreeThe money is already on the table.$0Idea 17 · book page 270Put an Offer on Your Voicemail & Hold MessageFreeA captive audience that already called you.
Idea 66 · book page 294Promotional Pens$0.30–$1.50 eachUseful, cheap, and passed from person to person.
Idea 80 · book page 301Rulers$0.50–$2 eachKept in desks and backpacks for years.
Idea 86 · book page 304Magnets$0.75–$2 eachOn the fridge right when the pipe bursts.
Idea 184 · book page 353Polo Shirts$12–$30 eachPolished uniforms and golf gifts.Want a plan that asks for the order?
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