ABSTRACT
If you do not have a Sales Representative the job of selling your product is likely to fall on your shoulders. As a young designer it can be nerve racking to call to set up a meeting but in many ways it can be a blessing. Buyers like to meet the creator behind the products. Below are steps to getting your line in stores.

1) Call stores that sell the type of clothing and or accessories you make.

2) Ask to speak to someone in the buying department of your specialty.

3) Explain you are a young designer with a line you would like to show someone.

4) Or ask if they have "open vending days". Note: Most stores are not familiar with the term. These are days in which young designers can show their collections to these better-known stores.

5) Most stores may not hold specific days like this, but they may still want to see your items.

6) Be prepared to briefly explain over the phone the type of clothing you make. Knowing the proper terms (i.e. bridge sportswear) and your price range shows you are ready to sell and do business. Maybe (but not very likely) they will want to set an appointment with you while you are on the phone. Therefore:

7) Be prepared to set a date. If the date they offer you is too soon (i.e. next week) don't worry. It's usually not your only chance. Ask for a more convenient day.

8) Write down the names and numbers of the people you speak with.

9) If you do set up an appointment verify the contact information, date, and address before you hang up. Also verify the appointment 1 or 2 days before. Being late or showing up the wrong day is a dumb way to blow your big chance.

10) Ask how much time you have to show your product line.

11) Most smaller stores will ask to be mailed a press kit (with pictures of your collection of course) or just pictures before they consider seeing you. Attach a cover letter with the kit or pictures you send. In the cover letter state you are mailing them the items after your discussion with "so and so" on "such and such" date. Briefly explain your company and what it is you're sending. If you don't have a press kit, include all your contact information on the cover letter. Verify their mailing address and contact person. Get the correct spelling of names.

12) When calling be prepared to wait and be transferred to many people before you are connected with the person you need, (then you may be transferred again!).

13) Not everyone is nice. Don't get discouraged or be rude back!

14) Be polite yet professional.


TIPS ON PRESENTING TO BUYERS

Bring an Assistant. Beg if you have to. It will help to have someone else setting up and displaying items so that you can work eye to eye with the buyer without distraction.

1) Edit your line. Show your best pieces first, buyers are busy!!!

2) If your product line has some history, let the buyer know which items have already gotten a good reaction and which ones were not successful. You have to keep in mind the big picture. If your line is purchased and it sells in their store, both you and the buyer will be heroes. This makes future orders a reality.

3) Have SKU (style) numbers and pricing information for every item. Tag each item with the style number and price.

4) Bring an order form.

5) Give them a "leave behind". This is a post card, line sheet, look books, pictures, anything to help a buyer remember your line.

6) Have business cards to hand out.

Published: January 2007
Region: USA
Format: Editorial
SKU: infpu0001743