[Mike McCarty]

I had the good fortune recently to sit in on a marketing discussion with Peggy Baumgaertner.

It was her practice, when responding to initial contacts (whether on the phone or in person), to find as quickly as possible a point at which you could speak the phrase - my prices start at $$$. After speaking this phrase you should remain silent, listen and observe how the recipient deals with this information. More often than not they will give you, whether verbal or through their body language, an indication as to whether you should continue the discussion or get on with your grocery shopping.

Now, she would say, lets all say it together - my prices start at $$$ .....