canvassing in Manhattan?

I am starting a website design co and have gotten a few references
from friends, former business associates etc. However, I have yet to
do any "serious" marketing. Being in Manhattan with so many
businesses makes walking around and handing out business cards seem
like an attractive option. On the other hand, I'm sure competitors
have done the same and there is obviously a certain percentage of
rejection. Just a few questions:
*Has anyone done sales canvassing specifically for web design, or even
more specifically within Manhattan?
*How should I determine if the person I meet is the owner without
being insulting?
*How should I introduce myself without sounding cheesy or insincere
(i.e. "wow, what a cool store you have here!" even if it is not)?
*Should I get right to the point and say "my company does web design"
or try a more subtle approach?
*If the owner is not there, I don't want to lose control by simply
leaving a brochure and hoping they call- should I offer to set an
appointment, or come back another time?
*Is it always better to wear a suit and tie, or do you think it's too
intimidating or outdated?
*If anyone has a general canvassing script (obviously I would memorize
it)of how they would introduce web design/ marketing services to a
prospect, that would help.
Thanks! Bill

Hi Bill,

I would suggest attending business focused networking opportunities. For
example attending breakfast or lunch meetings sponsored by your local
chamber of commerce, trade related meetings and trade shows. This will allow
you the opportunity to meet and develop a network of contacts who use or
refer your services to others.

regards,

Dan

"Bill" <njmtnbikr@aol.com> wrote in message
news:c54lkm0crm@enews3.newsguy.com...
>
> I am starting a website design co and have gotten a few references
> from friends, former business associates etc. However, I have yet to
> do any "serious" marketing. Being in Manhattan with so many
> businesses makes walking around and handing out business cards seem
> like an attractive option. On the other hand, I'm sure competitors
> have done the same and there is obviously a certain percentage of
> rejection. Just a few questions:
> *Has anyone done sales canvassing specifically for web design, or even
> more specifically within Manhattan?
> *How should I determine if the person I meet is the owner without
> being insulting?
> *How should I introduce myself without sounding cheesy or insincere
> (i.e. "wow, what a cool store you have here!" even if it is not)?
> *Should I get right to the point and say "my company does web design"
> or try a more subtle approach?
> *If the owner is not there, I don't want to lose control by simply
> leaving a brochure and hoping they call- should I offer to set an
> appointment, or come back another time?
> *Is it always better to wear a suit and tie, or do you think it's too
> intimidating or outdated?
> *If anyone has a general canvassing script (obviously I would memorize
> it)of how they would introduce web design/ marketing services to a
> prospect, that would help.
> Thanks! Bill