Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Selling Stone in 2010

























Hey Masons-


Looks like 2010 will be another tough road but you can't hide under a rock till its over. What can we do? Take advantage of every opportunity, relationship, free service, and leave no stone unturned (LOL).

Here are some tips that had been given to me years ago when I started my first business.

I was advise to tell everyone who will listen about my business. That’s because everyone knows at least 6 people that might need your product or services. So the next time you go to a party, little league game, or sit in a waiting room start blabbing about what you do. You never know who is listening.

2. Carry business cards - there is no excuse not to always have them on you. Freely give them out, Business cards are cheap and easy to make on any home computer. The best investment you will make.

3. Collect contact information from everyone you meet- This is a great way to build a marketing list. Reach out to them again via phone , email or mail. Think future! When they or someone they know is ready you will be fresh in their minds because you stayed in front of them with your message and sales pitch.

4. Give referrals to get referrals: Like many of the organized business networking associations promote, you can do the same thing among the people that you already give/do business: like your landscaper, plumber, electrician, web designer, car mechanic, hair dresser, and others. Let them know that you are happy to refer them to others and you'd appreciate them doing the same even. It shouldn't matter if you did not actually provide a service or product to them. I'm sure they would gladly accommodate. Make sure that they have your business card or a flyer to give out too.


5. There is no better new customer than a previous one. The easiest way to get new business is to revisit happy customers. Give them a call, see if you can be of service; ask if they know anyone one that they can refer. Offer a referal gift for every closed lead.


Please visit the Instone website to learn about our product lines, request Catalogs, or to find out how to become a dealer or select installer.




Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Pumpkin Martini a new tradition



The Pumpkin Martini has long been a favorite cocktail for fall. Although it has recently become difficult, well impossible, to find pumpkin schnapps or any pumpkin liqueur. Until another pumpkin liqueur comes on the market again you can substitute pumpkin spice syrup or pumpkin puree. You might also want to check out the Pumpkin Spice Martini, the Pumpkin Divine or the Calabatini.
Ingredients:
1/2 oz Sylk Cream Liqueur
2 oz vanilla vodka
1/2 oz pumpkin liqueur or pumpkin spice syrup
1 tsp whipped cream
cinnamon stick for garnish
Preparation:
Pour the Sylk Liqueur and vodka into a shaker filled with ice.
Shake well.
Add the pumpkin liqueur or syrup.
Shake again.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Top with a teaspoon of whipped cream.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Happy Thanksgiving from Instone

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

September is Fireplace Month


September is Fireplace Month
Wouldn't you love a fireplace? Fall is in the air and the aroma of burning wood mixed in with cool night air makes you want to curl up in front of your very own fireplace. That's why we've proclaimed September Fireplace month. Fireplaces are one home improvement that can increase the value and enjoyment of your home now and when you sell. View our website for design ideas and to design your own fireplace with our design software. Please contact us to find a mason or dealer near you. http://www.instoneco.com/

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Select Installer program- Good for everyone











Select Installer program benefits all

In a continuing effort to increase participation in the Owens Corning Select Installers program, Instone has created an informative brochure that provides all the benefits, details and information needed to become a Select Installer.

Why should Dealers sign up masons? When you sponsor a mason you create a loyal customer, and now have qualified masons to refer to home owners and General Contractors.

Why use a Select Installer?Each mason is checked out by Owens Corning Cultures Stone for credit worthiness, quality of work going back 3 years, is instructed by Owens Corning on installation guidelines and is certified to install. You create

Whats in it for the mason? You have the backing of Owens Corning. You will receive a certificate that lets home owners know that you have meet the high standards set by an industry leader.You are now eligible for job referrals and free marketing support and co-op dollars.

To received a supply of the new Select Installer brochure please contact Instone and we will mail them on your request. Please be sure to give these out and keep them easily available to your customers. We hope that you will encourage participation and support the Select Installer program.

Thank you.

Sincerely Cathy Williams

Marketing Manager

888-467-8250

mailto:c.williams@instoneco.com


Masonry Veneer Manufactures Association releases new guidelines





Masonry Veneer Manufactures Association newly released Installation Guidelines for Adhered Concrete Masonry Veneer.

Please see visit MVMA for the installation guide released by the MVMA.
This is the industry guidelines only. For Installation instruction of Owens Corning Cultured Stone, please refer to the Ownes Corning website or video.
More MVMA News / Publications
MVMA Technical Bulletin: Water Management Testing
Construction Specifier Feature on Masonry Veneer Flashing
MVMA Installation Guidelines
MVMA Educational Session at IBS 2009


Instone is a Master Distributor of Owens Corning Cultured Stone®, ProStone™, Semco Thin Cut Natural Stone Veneer, Arccast Architectural Pre-cast Concrete, FireRock fireplace systems and Napa Valley Select Cast Series wall and pier cap stones.