Market with free gifts

You know the product or service you're recommending could help your patients. The problem is holding clients' attention long enough to explain the benefits. One solution: Beth Blake, a veterinary assistant at Jordan Veterinary Hospital in Lexington, N.C., maximizes the client's visit by handing out a season-specific bag containing a special diet or treat and including a brochure or an educational card. "Handing the client the bag gives us an opportunity to make a verbal recommendation for the product or service, and the written reminder reinforces our message when the client gets home," says Blake, who earned a bachelor's degree in animal science. "Every client enjoys getting something free, and this is an effective and inexpensive method of advertising for us."