Sometimes, you know something is true but just can't find an example that screams out your point adequately. If you have children past age 10, you know what I mean.

You keeping trying to get them to make smart choices, or stop making dumb ones, and they look at you like you're completely clueless and out of touch with their world. No matter how many examples or analogies you come up with, the end result is "Dad, you're crazy. Go bug mom."

I thought coming up with persuasive examples would be easier as my girls aged. Foolish me. It's still tough to find examples that either girl responds to with "Wow Dad. You're right. I should do that."

Ah, but sometimes you DO come across a simple, persuasive example that makes your point dramatically and effectively. That happened to me the other day while working with a client on his budget.

If you've been a long time reader of these articles, or have read my report The 10 Biggest Mistakes Contractors Make, you know how often I beat the drum for selling. It feels like my drum has been falling on deaf ears. My fault. I just haven't been able to find the crystal clear example that emphasizes the dramatic impact selling can have on your bottom line. Well, I finally struck pay dirt.