By Julia Merten
Sales Rep
Star Publications
Recently, during the week of Christmas, I underwent ankle surgery. Initially, it was “all fun and games,” being pampered at each family Christmas and spending countless hours binge watching tv series I’ve always wanted to watch. However, since getting through the holidays, things have begun to slow down, and now my extra couch time has become mundane. This extra time has allowed me the perfect opportunity to reflect, prepare and set achievable goals for the new year. Here are some of my observations.
Communication: Being a sales representative, I firmly believe that the best form of communication with my customers is a face-to-face interaction. However, since I am unable to meet in person as I recover from surgery, having a complete and accurate list of phone numbers and emails in my CRM for each customer has been imperative. Some customers prefer a more formal email or phone call, while others respond best to a quick text message with a photo of their most recent ad. I encourage you to periodically go through your CRM, update contact information and enter important notes.
Relationships: Building solid relationships with your customers or news sources is important. Everyone will have a personal conflict when it comes to their work, whether it be an illness, a family emergency or a vacation. I have been overwhelmed by the number of customers who have been willing to work around a change in an ad deadline or have sent a message wishing me luck with my recovery.
Motivation: It can be hard to stay motivated when working from a remote location or a flexible schedule. Find a routine that works for you. Personally, I like to schedule time blocks for tasks I would like to accomplish. Take a periodic break to get up from your desk (or couch in my current state), get fresh air and come back with a clear mind. A call from a colleague can also brighten your day and give you the motivation you need to keep going.
Plan Ahead: During times of slower workflow, I encourage you to plan ahead and set SMART Goals. This spring, I am working on several special sections for farm trade shows. I have made lists, developed goals for each section and have begun my sales pursuit of these businesses. A SMART goal should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time bound.
As you reflect on your successes and set goals for 2026, I hope you keep Midwest Free Community Papers (MFCP) and the MCN/MDN ad network top of mind. All employees have something to learn and gain from participating in this organization. I look forward to seeing you at the Spring Conference on April 16-17 in Cedar Falls, Iowa!
Sales Rep
Star Publications
Recently, during the week of Christmas, I underwent ankle surgery. Initially, it was “all fun and games,” being pampered at each family Christmas and spending countless hours binge watching tv series I’ve always wanted to watch. However, since getting through the holidays, things have begun to slow down, and now my extra couch time has become mundane. This extra time has allowed me the perfect opportunity to reflect, prepare and set achievable goals for the new year. Here are some of my observations.
Communication: Being a sales representative, I firmly believe that the best form of communication with my customers is a face-to-face interaction. However, since I am unable to meet in person as I recover from surgery, having a complete and accurate list of phone numbers and emails in my CRM for each customer has been imperative. Some customers prefer a more formal email or phone call, while others respond best to a quick text message with a photo of their most recent ad. I encourage you to periodically go through your CRM, update contact information and enter important notes.
Relationships: Building solid relationships with your customers or news sources is important. Everyone will have a personal conflict when it comes to their work, whether it be an illness, a family emergency or a vacation. I have been overwhelmed by the number of customers who have been willing to work around a change in an ad deadline or have sent a message wishing me luck with my recovery.
Motivation: It can be hard to stay motivated when working from a remote location or a flexible schedule. Find a routine that works for you. Personally, I like to schedule time blocks for tasks I would like to accomplish. Take a periodic break to get up from your desk (or couch in my current state), get fresh air and come back with a clear mind. A call from a colleague can also brighten your day and give you the motivation you need to keep going.
Plan Ahead: During times of slower workflow, I encourage you to plan ahead and set SMART Goals. This spring, I am working on several special sections for farm trade shows. I have made lists, developed goals for each section and have begun my sales pursuit of these businesses. A SMART goal should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time bound.
As you reflect on your successes and set goals for 2026, I hope you keep Midwest Free Community Papers (MFCP) and the MCN/MDN ad network top of mind. All employees have something to learn and gain from participating in this organization. I look forward to seeing you at the Spring Conference on April 16-17 in Cedar Falls, Iowa!