Tips for the frustrated Coastal Reps

Quoting: MrsKatherinePerhaps the retiring baby boomers are your market. Has anyone determined what their online habits are?


Great point - actually, the baby boomers play a huge part in the travel industry..according to the Road and Travel magazine, a large percent of the them hit the road after they retire and I don't remember the exact statistics , but is was something like 'every couple minutes a baby boomer is retiring somewhere in the US' and quite a few of those have lived a full life....they are ready to travel and see the world...BUT most of them are retiring on about half of what they made so they are looking for a way to supplement their retirement as well...



I remember having the same question about saturating the market with these travel packages...I am now convinced that we will never saturate the market for several reasons...

*1 -90% of the people I talk to (and this is all over the US...) have never heard of Coastal Vacations
*2 - Ever been a big airport or train station and just watched the people flow through those doors??Very few of those ever heard of Coastal Vacations...
*3 - When you ask somebody what they would do if they won the lottery - a large percent say they would travel...

Welcome to the forum,MK!



Viola

Quoting: PNL TravelOur lives look nothing like they did almost 2 1/2 years ago. The longer I am in Coastal, the more money we save, the more vacations we get to take. We went 4 times just this Summer! Before we were lucky to go once every two years. So, I don't think that we are just fulfilling dreams. Our dreams are becoming our reality - and that's pretty cool!

Lora, that is so exciting - I love watching you grow in your business..You have been an inspiration to me ...Thanks for that!



Viola

Thank you Viola and Adam...now I'm blushing.

Lora

If you are a frustrated Coastal Director I have a great idea for you. Start some free advertising. Join all of the social networks out there. Go to the free classifieds and post your opportunity. Put out ads in your pennysavers in your area if you can. Go give away vacations as well. Word of mouth advertising is the best. There is no need to be frustrated just refocus that energy.

More importantly plug into your team training. Get around people not frustrated and feed off of their energy. The best thing about Coastal is that you are in business for yourself but never by yourself. Hear a few testimonies and get excited. Frustration can be turned around very quickly. Remember we make $1000 - $9705 on every transaction. That is something to smile about.

Adam Frederick
Coastal Level III Director

In any business their will be frustration. That is a way of life on Earth. Nothing will ever go exactly the way we want it to. Its more about how we react to this frustration. Does it paralyze you or do you learn from it?

I will give you an everyday example. My wife loves to drive fast. From time to time it seems that everyone is in the way and going way too slow as we are in the car. I used to get frustrated with it but now I say well that means im not supposed to get to where im going as fast as I think I am. When I changed this thought process the world changed for me. We always get parking spots in front now. If we had got there sooner maybe it might not be the same.

So turn your thinking around. Find the silver lining in every dark cloud. If you look hard enough you will learn a lesson for success in the future. Even if that lesson is only not to do what made you frustrated in the first place.

Adam Frederick
Coastal Level III Director

Quoting: ateamfuntimerWord of mouth advertising is the best.

Adam- no question, word of mouth advertising IS the best.

BUT- I would like to point out, that giving away vacations to potential business partners is NOT true word of mouth advertising!

Word of mouth, technically- is when someone who has NO vested interest in giving a recommendation, gives someone a testimonial about a product, service etc.

Like when you see a GREAT movie, and tell your friend about it. The people over there at "The Secret" do a BANG UP JOB of word of mouth. They created a GREAT product, and word spread like wildfire, all the way to Oprah. BTW- I LOVE OPRAH! The only tv I find worth watching, every time!

So then- what all good marketers need to learn to do- is TRUE word of mouth advertising. The best way I can see to do that, is provide an exceptional product, superb support- and always have at heart and in mind a genuine intent to help people. REGARDLESS of their interest or desire for Coastal Vacations. When your prospect is not interested, but then tells their friend (not giving you their info because you asked- but says to their contact- hey I heard about this, and thought of you...) THAT is the most powerful and effective advertising in the world!

What you are suggesting- giving away vacations to people, so that they can enjoy and see the great product we offer- that is creating a warm market from a cold one. It takes a certain type of very outgoing personality who enjoys agressive marketing to do that- not me! But, for people have the desire to do that- GREAT! Again, there are ways to give away vacations to benefit others, while having service orientation. For the more "weak knee'd" non marketer types like me- that could translate into doing something like giving a cruise or vacation certificate to your church for a fundraiser when they are asking for donations, or supporting a local cause you read about in your newspaper. You can do something by donating a certificate that is genuine and helpful- and obtain true word of mouth advertising when the organization you assisted gives credit to you in their church bulletin for your gracious donation. Often, people then in your community seek you out and want to know HOW you do that- it is obvious to them at that point you are somehow strategically positioned in the travel industry or KNOW about something they do not!

I'm a technical nut, so I thought I would pass on that distinction to interested parties.

Cheers

Jani

Hi Jani,
So glad to see you back in the forum! I hope you come around more often as I really respect your advice. I know we had a lot of controversy re the CSG on here but it seems the last few months there have been lots of positive people on the forum -using "The Secret" no doubt and I know you have a lot of good info to offer people out there.
Judy

Hi Judy!

Thanks! I read that stuff about the CSG- well I can tell you I wholeheartedly disagree with the negativity but I feel that each to his own- again, one should always remember that people have REASONS for their opinions- and far too often, that is sadly about promoting their own interests.

I'm a BIG FAN of the secret!!! Actually, I just started my blog finally last night- and I talk about that, in part!

LOVE IT!

Each to their own, live and let live. I love the system I use, and the people I have the great honour and pleasure of working with.

But, that LoA- that is UNIVERSAL!

I'm glad to be back!

Have a better then GREAT weekend!



Jani

Quoting: matiasmommyone should always remember that people have REASONS for their opinions- and far too often, that is sadly about promoting their own interests.

You know, when I was making my decision about what direction to take my team as far as Coastal Vacations systems and support, it was obvious what direction I should go. There's only 1 Official system and training. There's no hidden agenda, and the group that makes the decisions do so based upon what's best for Coastal's Members best interest and more importantly what works.

Jay NaPier

Well, again Jay- I don't feel there is ANY hidden agenda within ANY of the groups. All the groups have unique traits but our big goal is ALWAYS the same- to provide tools and materials to assist others in obtaining success with their Coastal business. The key being that people are unique- not everything works for everyone. Some people like Fords, other people like Lincolns. We have all seen examples in the commercial marketplace- of innovation between competitors bringing about better products and services for the end consumer. CHOICE and innovation in any marketplace is ALWAYS a good thing. I love that fact that my chosen group DOES give me many varied choices, support avenues and tools and is constantly looking to improve upon, add to and expand. When I look and see where we are going as a group and how the vision is constantly evolving- I am truly inspired and VERY excited to have the luxury of being self employed and truly in charge of my own life while helping others move towards their own unique dreams! Isn't that the point really? It really gets me very charged up so learn, grow, support and change. Its no secret how much this business has really CHANGED my life for the better in the past year.

But the bottom line is- we all owe a debt of gratitude to Al who really got Coastal started- without this great product- the opportunity itself simply would not exist.

As far as I am concerned, when I bought my package, I became a MEMBER of Coastal Vacations, and the tools, training and support of the BOD is equally available to everyone who purchases a Coastal membership.

I know that my system works for myself and many others...

Recently, a new website was started at csgfinancialpost dot com that highlights this. This great business has certainly exceeded my expectations and goals for my first year and completely changed my life. For that, I am very grateful.

It is a fact that many groups are watching and emmulating many of the tools and ideas that the CSG has put in place. I personally see this as a very GOOD thing for ALL members of Coastal Vacations. EVERYONE who starts this business is looking for success- it is a very GOOD thing that there is starting to be better tools and systems in place to support that goal.

Obviously, you are a very successful leader within Coastal Vacations. I admire your skills and your passion and am aware that you have helped people too in your career. I can't always agree with you- but I do recognize your accomplishments and do hope you realize the responsibility you have here as a leader our industry.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate you, I understand you have been accepted to the BOD leadership council. I know this is a major milestone in your career and that you have worked very hard to earn that privledge. Your decision to accept a leadership position, allows you to be of greater service to all members of Coastal.

I'm truly sorry to hear that you did not find the CSG a good fit for you in the long run- but I do not see any need to negate the vision of our group or its leaders- or any other group within the Coastal family for that matter. I think it is always important to see the long term vision and purpose here- as in all things. We are here to HELP people- all of us- regardless of the group or system we support or use. I would like to believe that all of the groups are continually looking to improve the systems and support that they provide to their members and not simply rest on the laurels of their original success. To me, this makes sense- if you examine closely the business model and its ability to "mushroom"- it seems to me that groups will mushroom accordingly in relation to the success of their individual members. Just as we go through phases in our business- it makes sense to me that the groups would constantly be looking at how to better themselves and provide more resources to their growing membership. That is only good business acumen, in my opinion.

I realize that you are very passionate about what you do, how you do it, and who you do it with. Please realize- we all (hopefully) feel the very same way about our businesses and the group model we choose to utilize. To continually attack my group- openly as you have elsewhere on the internet and even more tongue-in-cheek on this very forum- is a dis-service to others who are seeking the best fit for THEM. We all feel very strongly about the systems we use- to say that "this group is yada yada yada" is to actually say that the members of that group support unethical behavior or inefective systems that negate the success and thus dreams of their valued associates and team members. I can't speak for anyone else here- but I certainly would not condone or represent a group or system that I felt to be even a teeny bit second rate for myself or my own team. Your experiences and thus perspective are obviously very different then mine. Perception is reality for everyone! That is life, but I am truly sorry if you feel that you and your valued team members were not entirely acknowledged or supported by the CSG in the way that you felt you needed. Ethics are actually part of my educational background, and a subject that I am very passionate about. My strong sense of ethics are personal values that I hold as part of my very identity.

Again- in my humble opinion- there is successful people in ALL of the groups. My feeling- is that is important to find a Director that you resonate with FIRST- the tools and duplicable system you use are secondary to the personal support you receive and the product we represent. Again- with the desire to be successful and the support to do so- ANYONE can and will be successful in their Coastal Business. That is the beauty of this business! Don't forget- there are MANY successful directors out there who don't even have the advantage of a group!

Cheers

Jani

If you are a frustrated director in Coastal Vacations my advice is to rise above your situation and focus on the positives. As many read the post in these forums you will see what can be looked at as infighting and bickering back and forth. Just rise above it.

When you are frustrated it is easy to fall into the popular culture and go with the flow and energy of what is around you. I again challenge you to rise above it. Get on a few of the live business calls and listen to the excitement of other leaders and associates. Look over the product and plan your next vacation. Vacations have a way of making people happy. Call your director for some encouragement. That helps alot of us.

So many of us get so entrenched in building this business they forget the reasons we got started. Maybe it was to spend more time with your family. If thats the case then do that. For those that it was to make more money then spend some time planning what you will do with the money. You have to see it first in yor mind to achieve it. So spend some time visualizing it.

Frustration is something we all deal with so dont feel alone. It will get better when you change your mindset.

Adam Frederick
Coastal Level III Director
302 476 2753

Matiamom

well spoken

Directors from all groups in Coastal Vacations get frustrated. I doesnt matter if you are on the BOD syetem, CSG, CWB, WCYS, DFI or any of the rest of the alphabet of teams. Frustration comes from not achieving what we believe we deserve. I have a simple solution for that. Be grateful for what you have. First off you have your own business which is the American dream. You have the opportunity to make at least $1000 every sale. Imagine how someone in Sudan or in India in a poor area would feel about the opportunity to make $1000. Now think about it what do we have to be frustrated about? Its about changing your mindset. Now many of you first heard about being grateful from "The Secret". Well its really not a secret. I first learned it in Bible study. Now as you all know im not perfect at all and fall short of the mark all the time. At times I do forget to turn the other cheek and dont love my enemies as I should but the one thing I didnt pick up from my fate is being grateful. Coastal has totally changed my life and so many lifes of people I know.

Many days I dont get along with everyone in this forum and we argue back and forth. But as I look at it im grateful we even have this forum to agree to disagree. If this were Iraq and I went against the common chain of thought ( I always do it seems) I might be beheaded for talking out. Here all I get are a few heated words from a few vendors and a few other leaders. They answer all my threads back with their own thoughts trying to make me look like I dont know what im talking about. Well as much as they try and as much as they frustrate me I appreciate the banter as they keep me on my game and only make me better and even more important give me an opportunity to shine in front of the rest of the group.

A popular contemporary comedian said recently that is you dont have 15 "haters" you better get some more by christmas. Well as I have vendors and 6 and 7 figure earners reacting to my every word I think I might be getting close to that 15. LOL!!!!

So if you are a frustrated director take it in stride and learn to be grateful for all you do have and keep it moving.

Adam Frederick
Coastal Platinum Director

Not always loved but always on your mind and well respected!!!!

I believe that there are so many ways to market these amazing travel packages that people get overwhelmed and don't know what to do.

They try a little advertising here and there and if their phones are not rolling with calls they get discouraged.

Well, you need to find the way that works for you. First of all, don't try everything at once. Find a few ways to market these products that you feel comfortable with and learn them well; and of course, implement.

We show our team proven ways to advertise both free and paid.

Determine if you are going to sell the package retail or the business opportunity, or both. Write down a plan and stick with it!

Matt & Catherine Willis
Successful Coastal Vacations Level 3 Directors
770-995-0029

Frustration comes from the wrong expectations. It's kinda like doing crafts. If you've ever watched Martha Stewart do a craft project, she's very good....but, when YOU decide to do the same thing...it might not come out the same.

Working directly with your director will give you a different result. You'll learn what they've done to get the results they've gotten, assuming they are getting the results your looking for.

With the recent changes that some prominent directors have had....it should be obvious where the results are with Coastal.

Jay NaPier

Quoting: jnapierWith the recent changes that some prominent directors have had....it should be obvious where the results are with Coastal.
...............
Trying to follow and learn - but what appears obvious to you - is not to me. I have no clue what you are talking about???

Bob

He's talking about me.....

I have gone to a single focused and duplicatable system that teaches ONE WAY, not MANY ... NOT A FEW... but 1 single simple method.

Anyone can do it. Anyone who is bad at it can develop over time and get better and with self improvement, comes financial improvement as well.

Having a potluck sounds good when it comes to many advertising ways... it is perceived as the way to go about finding success because people can choose their marketing style of choice.

But in my opinion, the more you dilute people with methods, the more you'll dilute people with madness.

Anyone can do Coastal, as long as they take the time to learn how to get it going and follow a simple duplicatable system, which takes no guess work and no "having to figure out what works."

I found something a lot more people are using which makes me happy, cause I see more people in my team getting more sales and more excitement.

I think that is what Jay was talking about.

Quoting: goldmillsHaving a potluck sounds good when it comes to many advertising ways... it is perceived as the way to go about finding success because people can choose their marketing style of choice.

But in my opinion, the more you dilute people with methods, the more you'll dilute people with madness.

Anyone can do Coastal, as long as they take the time to learn how to get it going and follow a simple duplicatable system, which takes no guess work and no "having to figure out what works."

Hi Jeff,

Exactly. Some watch what some of us are doing and think they can do it too....but what's missing is the years of experience. I spent years calling leads before I ventured out to other marketing methopds. My skinned knees and busted nose is from experience. Working with a director who has this expirience helps.

And I agree.....Anyone can do Coastal.

Jay NaPier

Quoting: goldmillsI have gone to a single focused and duplicatable system that teaches ONE WAY, not MANY ... NOT A FEW... but 1 single simple method.
Quoting: goldmillsBut in my opinion, the more you dilute people with methods, the more you'll dilute people with madness
............
Amen

Quoting: goldmillsHaving a potluck sounds good when it comes to many advertising ways... it is perceived as the way to go about finding success because people can choose their marketing style of choice.

But in my opinion, the more you dilute people with methods, the more you'll dilute people with madness.

Anyone can do Coastal, as long as they take the time to learn how to get it going and follow a simple duplicatable system, which takes no guess work and no "having to figure out what works."

I found something a lot more people are using which makes me happy, cause I see more people in my team getting more sales and more excitement.

Very well said Jeff and I agree 100%.