Ropho – Pleasure and Business After 60

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  • Sales: Why Learning Techniques is Important in Your 60’s

    This week in our Series “How to Plan and Run a Business in Your 60s,” (Week 7).

    Why, Without Sales, You’re Stuffed

    I’ve seen it a thousand times.

    Business owners scratching their heads, wondering why production is stalling or why they can’t negotiate better prices with suppliers.

    Here’s the “unfiltered” truth: You can’t fix production, and you can’t leverage suppliers, if you don’t have sales.

    Sales is the oxygen of your business. Without it, you are stuffed.

    I don’t usually put it that politely in person, but for the sake of the blog, let’s call it “critically compromised.”

    We move from Marketing (week 6).

    To Sales—the engine that turns interest into revenue.

    For entrepreneurs over 60, your greatest sales assets are wisdom, patience, and professional experience.

    However,as i keep mentioning the approach changes drastically depending on whether you are selling to individuals (B2C) or other businesses (B2B).

    B2C vs. B2B Sales: (The Differences)

    Understanding who you are selling to determine’s your strategy.

    B2C (Business – to – Consumer):

    • Selling directly to individuals (e.g., retail, personal services, consulting to individuals).
    • Decision Maker: Usually one person (or a couple).
    • Cycle: Fast, sometimes impulsive.
    • Motivations: Emotion, convenience, personal desire, price.
    • Focus: Emotional connection, brand reputation, speed to close.

    B2B (Business – to – Business):

    • Selling to companies (e.g., B2B consulting, IT services, professional services).
    • Decision Makers: Multiple stakeholders involved (CFO, Manager, Purchasing).
    • Cycle: Longer, complex, and requires high trust.
    • Motivations: ROI (return on investment), efficiency, risk mitigation.
    • Focus: Building long-term relationships, educating the buyer, showing business impact.

    Face-to-Face:Sales Techniques

    In your 60s, you bring a high degree of credibility. Use it.

    1. Embrace Your Experience (The “Wisdom Advantage”): Don’t try to look 30. Your gray hair represents experience. Frame your age as resilience and knowledge that younger competitors lack.
    2. Sell Solutions, Not Benefits: Don’t just list product features. Ask open-ended questions to identify the customer’s pain points, then tailor your pitch to solve that specific issue.
    3. Active Listening & Empathy: Older adults (and buyers in general) respond better to someone who hears them. Spend 70% of the time listening and 30% talking.
    4. The “Cup of Tea” Method (B2B Focus): High-value B2B deals are often closed in person. Focus on building rapport and taking time to connect personally, not just running through a deck.
    5. Preparation and Professionalism: Always research the person or company before the meeting. Bring relevant, high-quality demo materials or case studies.
    6. Confident Closing: If you are face-to-face, you have already earned trust. Be direct about the next step. “Based on what we’ve discussed, I recommend we move forward with option B. Does that work for you?”.

    Telephone Techniques: (Appointment-Only)

    Goal: Get a meeting, not to make a sale on the phone.

    1. The “Respect” Opening: Immediately respect their time to get their attention. “Hi [Name], this is [Name]. I know I caught you in the middle of your day, do you have two minutes to hear why I called?”.
    2. Sell the Meeting, Not the Product: If you explain your product, they will say “I’m not interested.” If you talk about a 10-minute discovery chat to help them save time/money, they might agree.
    3. Use the “Feel, Felt, Found” Handling Objection:
    • Prospect: “I don’t have time to meet.”
    • You: “I understand how you feel [Prospect Name]. Many of my current clients felt the same way initially. However, they found that taking 15 minutes for a demo saved them hours of labour later.”
    1. Offer Two Specific Times (Alternative Close): Never ask, “When are you free?” Ask, “Do you prefer Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday morning?”.
    2. Leverage Referrals: If you know someone they know, lead with it immediately. “I was speaking with [Referral Name] and they mentioned that your company is looking to…”.
    3. Prepare for Voicemail: 80% of calls go to voicemail. Have a script ready that mentions value, not just your phone number.

    These are just some of the basic techniques, for more in depth sales advice please contact for private discussion and training pdf’s.

    For those not at the Sales face!

    Maybe you have a sales team or individual sales representatives.

    The questions then become very different.

    Are they adequately trained and managed and led correctly, do you have systems in place to drive effective sales strategies crm etc.

    To determine if your team and systems are up to par, here is a breakdown of three areas I always focus on within my Sales strategies.

    Training, Management, and Systems

    Training:

    Are they “Clones” or “Consultants”?

    If you have a sales team, they shouldn’t just be reciting your life story; they need to replicate your result.

    • The Script vs. The Framework: Do they have a “script” (robotic) or a “framework” (flexible)? Effective training ensures they know how to handle objections using the Feel, Felt, Found method we discussed earlier.
    • Role-Playing: This is often overlooked. Do you spend time acting as a difficult client to test their telephone and face-to-face techniques?
    • Product Knowledge vs. Empathy: Most teams are over-trained on what the product does and under-trained on how to listen to the customer’s pain.

    Management & Leadership:

    The “Driver” vs. The “Coach”

    In your 60s, your leadership style should lean toward Mentorship.

    • KPIs (Key Performance Indicators): Are you measuring the right things?
    • Activity Metrics: Number of calls made, appointments set.
    • Result Metrics: Conversion rates, average deal size.
    • The Sales Meeting: Is your weekly meeting a “drilling” session or a “strategy” session? Use your wisdom to help them unstick deals that are stalling.
    • Incentive Structures: Does your commission or bonus structure actually motivate the behavior you want (e.g., long-term B2B relationships vs. quick B2C wins)?

    Systems:

    The CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

    If your sales data is in your head or on a yellow legal pad, your business is not scalable (and harder to sell later if you want to retire).

    • Why a CRM is Non-Negotiable: It tracks every touchpoint. If a salesperson leaves, the relationship stays with your business because the history is in the system.
    • Pipeline Visibility: Can you see at a glance how many leads are “Warm,” “Hot,” or “Closing”?
    • Automation: Modern CRMs (like HubSpot, Zoho, or Pipedrive) can automate the “thank you” emails or follow-up reminders, allowing your team to focus on the human side of sales.

    The “Self-Audit” Checklist

    Ask yourself these three questions:

    1. “Could I go on holiday for a month and the sales wouldn’t drop?” (If no, your team isn’t managed/trained well enough).
    2. “Can I see exactly where a lead came from and why they didn’t buy?” (If no, your CRM/Systems are lacking).
    3. “Does my team represent my brand values with the same level of integrity I do?” (If no, your leadership needs alignment).

    Next week’s final part of mini series. (Week 8)

    Overview of planning and running a business in your sixties we look at why systems are so important.

    Whether your business is just you, or a much larger organisation, we need systems to cover all aspects of running a vibrant and sustainable modern business.

    From accounting, marketing, sales, production and purchasing, we need usable systems right for your business.

    For anymore in depth information please do not hesitate to contact me or comment.

    I would love to hear how you set, plan and reach your Sales Targets.

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    A single bad subcontractor or third-party provider can destroy a profitable project.  

    Read More –Hiring Mistakes That Damage Businesses (And How to Avoid Them)

    Week Six – Successful Marketing for Mature Entrepreneurs

  • Spring into Adventure: Travelling Overseas Safely in Your 60’s

    Spring into Adventure: Travelling Overseas Safely in Your 60's

    With the spring sun finally showing its face in the UK, our thoughts have naturally turned to summer.

    While we have Thailand booked for December 2026, we are currently deep in the “Vision” stage for our next European getaway.

    We are always on the lookout for hidden gems—if you’ve found a spot that stole your heart recently, please message me!

    Travel, to me, is one of the world’s great wonders.

    It has often been the thing that rescued me from sinking into a well of destruction and despair.

    From that first kernel of thought—“I want to go somewhere”—to the excitement of committing to the plan, the process is a tonic.

    I do occasionally miss the old days: the glossy brochures from the travel agents, huddling around the fire with the kids, plotting adventures.

    I remember the “August War” – finding out the hotel was double the price because of school holidays and joking with the kids that they’d be staying at Nanny’s while we jetted off in July! (They didn’t find it as funny as I did).

    The Meaning of Travel at 60+

    Travel doesn’t stop at 60; in many ways, it becomes more meaningful.

    We appreciate places differently—slower, with a more relaxed atmosphere (no kids) and less rushing. But a “Greatest Decade” trip benefit from smarter planning.

    Not to limit the adventure, but to make it smoother.

    Before you book, remember: The internet makes searching easy, but it also opens doors for scammers.

    Check out my [Top 10 Ways to Avoid Online Scams] before you put your card details into a new travel site!

    10 Smart Ways to Travel Later in Life

    1. Comfort Over Chaos Direct flights are your friend. Choose accessible accommodation and research your transfers in advance. Use taxis for the “last mile” rather than struggling with luggage on a long walk. Conserve your energy for the sights, not the transit.

    2. Insurance That Actually Covers You Don’t just tick the cheapest box. Ensure your policy covers pre-existing conditions and medical emergencies. In your 60s, “Comprehensive” is the only word that matters.

    3. Documentation & Digital Backups Check your passport has at least 6 months left. Secure your visas early. Pro Tip: Take a photo of your passport and insurance on your phone and email it to yourself. If the paper goes missing, the digital copy is your lifeline.

    4. The “Medication Plus” Rule See your GP for a check-up and any vaccinations. Always carry your medication in your hand luggage in its original packaging, and bring enough for the trip plus an extra 5 days, just in case of delays.

    5. Tech & Roaming Avoid the “bill shock” when you get home. Check your mobile plan for international roaming or look into an eSIM for 2026.

    6. Respect the Heat Spring and summer sun in the Med or Asia is a different beast now. Plan for shade, midday rests, and double the hydration you think you need.

    7. Cards & Cash Use no-fee travel cards (like Monzo or Starling) to avoid conversion “daylight robbery.” Always carry a small amount of local cash for those “hidden gem” cafes that don’t take plastic.

    8. Walking Shoes Over Fashion I’m all for style, but for a city break, blister pain ruins a day faster than anything. Invest in high-quality, supportive footwear. Your feet will thank you at dinner.

    9. The “Rule of Three” You don’t need to see every cathedral and museum. Pick 2–3 highlights per day maximum. If you do more, it’s a bonus. If not, you’ve had a great day.

    10. Enjoyment Over the Itinerary Slow breakfasts. Long, lingering dinners. Wandering a side street without a map. Travel at 60+ isn’t a race; it’s about soaking it all in.

    Is there a travel “hack” or a hidden gem I’ve missed?

    I’ve spent decades planning everything from business mergers to family holidays, but I’m still a student of the road. ( You’re always learning).

    If you have a secret tip for a smooth trip – or a European destination that’s so good you almost don’t want to share it, drop it in the comments. I promise I won’t tell the scammers! 🌍✈️

    Experience is Your Best Security: 10 Ways to Stay Safe Online

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  • Experience is Your Best Security: 10 Ways to Stay Safe Online

    Experience is Your Best Security: 10 Ways to Stay Safe Online

    The internet has made life easier in many ways.

    We bank, shop, and run businesses from the kitchen table.

    For many of us building new routines after 60, it’s a powerful tool for independence. But there is a downside: online scams have evolved.

    Modern scams look incredibly convincing – fake bank alerts, delivery notifications, even “investment” tips featuring familiar faces.

    The truth is, scammers don’t just target the careless; they target sensible people when they are busy or distracted.

    The good news? You don’t need to be a tech genius to stay safe.

    You just need to apply the same “slow down and verify” logic you’ve used in business, work and life for decades.

    The 10 Simple Rules of Digital Safety

    1. Slow Everything Down Scams rely on urgency. “Account locked” or “Immediate action required.” That pressure is a trap. The safest first step is to pause. If a message pushes you to act now, question why.

    2. Never Click Links in Unexpected Messages Links in texts or emails can lead to “cloned” websites. If a bank or delivery company contacts you unexpectedly, do not click. Go to the official website via your browser instead.

    3. Go to the Company Directly Never use the phone number or link provided in a suspicious message. Use the number on the back of your bank card or an official statement. One call can save a lot of heartache.

    4. Use Strong, Unique Passwords Using the same password everywhere is like using one key for your house, car, and office. If a criminal gets one, they get them all. Consider a Password Manager to keep things secure.

    5. Turn on Two-Step Verification (2SV) Most UK banks and email providers now offer this. It sends a code to your phone when you log in. It’s a small extra step that acts as a massive deadbolt on your digital door.

    6. Be Wary of “Guaranteed” Investments Fraudsters often impersonate financial advisers or celebrities. In the UK, you should always check the FCA Register before moving money. If it promises high returns with “no risk,” it’s a red flag.

    7. “Too Good to Be True” is a Warning Massive discounts or miracle offers are designed to make you act before you think. Trust that inner voice—if it feels too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

    8. Keep Your Devices Updated Those annoying “Update Now” notifications on your phone or laptop? They are your digital maintenance. They often contain the latest security patches to block new viruses.

    9. Report Suspicious Messages In the UK, you can fight back. Forward scam texts to 7726 (it spells ‘SPAM’ on a keypad) and report suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.

    It helps the authorities shut these people down.

    10. When in Doubt, Ask Someone A second opinion is a scammer’s worst enemy. A quick chat with a partner, friend, or colleague can reveal a scam instantly. Scammers want you alone; your community keeps you safe.

    The Ropho Final Thought

    The internet is a wonderful tool that has opened huge doors for us in our sixties.

    You don’t need to be paranoid; you just need to be prepared.

    Taking a beat to verify things isn’t a sign of being “out of touch”—it’s a sign of experience.

    What’s your #1 rule for staying safe online? Let’s share some collective wisdom in the comments below!

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    Read More – Spring into Adventure: Travelling Overseas Safely in Your 60’s

    Read More – From Busy to Balanced: A New Look at Life in Your Sixties

  • Limbo, Grandchildren, and the Great Wardrobe War

    As discussed last week, we are still in a state of limbo, getting very excited about the arrival of our 7th grandchild.

    As it’s my son’s first child, I have promised not to disappear anywhere and will be around to offer any needed support.

    He’s a worrier, whereas our other children just get on with things.

    Since it was a long bank holiday weekend, I decided to embark on a de-clutter adventure—and quickly realised what a bad idea that was!

    I chose two areas: The garden shed and my clothes/aftershaves.

    The clothes are the real challenge; with spring here and summer approaching, the winter gear needs to go to the back.

    Every year this causes a full-scale war!

    We downsized to a bungalow a few years ago with a large walk-in wardrobe, but someone forgot to tell us it only works if we stop buying things.

    The Summer Social Calendar

    We are very lucky to have received invitations to some fantastic events this summer, including Royal Ascot.

    Between those and various promotional events for the business, we’ve both decided we need a bit of a wardrobe upgrade.

    My dress suits are well-used, and my business suits feel a bit dated.

    So, baby arrival permitting, we are hitting the shops over the next two or three weeks.

    It has sparked a real discussion: Now that we are in our sixties, what style are we going for?

    Casual vs. Sophisticated: The Style Strategy

    Even my business wear has changed subtly over recent years, the formal corporate look I wore for so many years has changed to some extent.

    I still love a tie, but I don’t wear one as often now, as many clients prefer a casual look.

    It raises a great question for the mature entrepreneur:

    Is sophistication the look, or can we combine the two?

    In business, your presentation is part of your Unique Selling Proposition (USP).

    It’s how you set yourself apart from the competition.

    For those of us visiting clients, a sophisticated yet accessible look builds the trust and personal relationship needed for long-term success.

    The Reorganisation Starts

    Now for the war footing, I start a pile to go, a pile to keep.

    ” Oh no ” says Sharon there are rules !

    Really!

    Oh my goodness, good job there were three days this weekend.

    Rules according to my wife.

    The Wardrobe War: Rules of Engagement

    Downsizing and restyling a wardrobe involves moving from a mindset of “having options” to “having outfits.”

    To create a curated, functional wardrobe for 2026, experts recommend establishing clear, sometimes “brutal,” rules to separate your true style from sentimental clutter. (Where did she get that from.) Someone’s been reading!

    Here are the key rules for downsizing and restyling:

    1. The Ruthless Edit

    • The 90/90 Rule: If you haven’t worn it in the last 90 days and don’t plan to wear it in the next 90, it’s out.
    • The Fit Test: Only keep what fits your body right now. No “waiting to lose weight” pieces allowed.
    • Check the Fabric: Prioritize natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, and wool; these should make up 70% of your wardrobe for longevity.
    • The “One-In, One-Out” Rule: To keep the bungalow’s wardrobe manageable, for every new Royal Ascot or holiday item bought, one old item must be donated.

    2. Restyling & Organization

    • The 80/20 Rule: You likely wear 20% of your clothes 80% of the time. Identify those essentials and build your look around them.
    • The 70/30 Rule: Balance your closet with 70% versatile basics and 30% statement pieces (like those Ascot dress suits).
    • The “No Singles” Rule: Every item you keep must be able to be styled in at least three different ways.
    • Reverse Hanger Trick: Turn all hangers backward. When you wear an item, face the hanger forward. In 6 months, the backward hangers tell you exactly what to donate.

    3. The Final Piles

    Recycle: Anything tatty, torn, or stained.

    Love/Keep: Items that fit well and make you feel confident.

    Donate/Sell: Good condition but unloved.

    Repair/Alter: Items that need care (but only if you’ll actually do it this week!).

    I have to say, working to these rules worked an absolute treat, we both have space.

    Now for the fun to begin, I will keep you updated with how the restyle goes in the coming weeks.

    I gave up the idea of the shed de-clutter, there might be rules for that as well!

    Next Week: The Scent Section: Spring/Summer 2026

    A de-clutter isn’t complete without looking at the aftershaves and perfumes. Research to be undertaken this week!

    Any ideas?

    Which are your favourites for both everyday use and those special occasions.

    Your comments would be gratefully received!

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    Read More – Why I’m Singing on the Inside: A 60+ Lifestyle Update

  • Successful Marketing for Mature Entrepreneurs

    For those of us starting or scaling later in life, a mature entrepreneur business strategy relies on turning cheesy cliches, into structured time frames and accountable execution.

    Writing this 8 part mini series of how to plan and run a business, particularly if you are in your sixties has been fun.

    Last week, we focused on the importance of cashflow and implementing a cohesive 13-week plan.

    As this overview enters the 6th week of this series.

    Our attention turns to marketing.

    Marketing: the strategic tool used to attract and engage potential customers before the sales process ever begins.

    B2B vs. B2C: Knowing Your Marketplace

    To set your business apart from the competition, you must demonstrate a deep understanding of your industry and target audience.

    A lot of the clients I advise have a mixture of both, so it is important to understand the different strategies available.

    The B2C ‘Sprint’

    • Target: Individual consumers, typically reached through retail, online shops, or trades like plumbers and cake makers.
    • The Strategy: There is usually no middle person involved in the transaction.
    • Demographics: Focus on factors such as age, gender, and income level to identify your market.
    • The Goal: Solve a specific “Market Need” or gap in the market quickly.

    The B2B ‘Marathon’

    • Target: Other businesses, designers, architects,local authorities or larger contractors.
    • The Strategy: This path involves a much longer business cycle and a complex chain of command.
    • The Goal: Position your company as a trusted solution provider through long-term relationship building.

    The Strategy: Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest

    A successful mature entrepreneur business strategy should be flexible as you learn more about your markets and trends.

    You don’t need to be on every platform; you need to be on the right ones for your specific business or craft.

    • Facebook (The Community): We use this to highlight “Human Interaction,” a major Unique Selling Proposition (USP) that sets us apart from impersonal, AI-driven corporations.
    • LinkedIn (The Authority): You can share your expertise on the professional and regulatory environment to build trust with business partners.
    • Learning Pinterest (The Visual Engine): This is a powerhouse for visual businesses—like cake makers or manufacturers—to reach customers who plan projects months in advance.

    The Road Ahead: eBooks and Real-Life Launches

    Marketing generates the leads, while sales personnel, nurture them to close the deal.

    To help you dive deeper, I am developing in-depth eBooks for construction and manufacturing owners, but the lessons on pricing and USPs apply to every start-up.

    Following our Week 8 recap, we will begin an exciting new series featuring two real-world case studies:

    1. The Ropho Launch: A step-by-step look at my own website/blog journey.
    2. The Maintenance Company Launch: A real-world look at a new business I am helping a 50-year-old entrepreneur launch from the ground up.

    Whether you are 50, 60, or beyond, your experience is your greatest asset in executing a mature entrepreneur business strategy.

    Next Week: The Art of the Sale

    Marketing has created the interest—now it’s time to generate the revenue. Join us for Week 7, where we move from the screen to the “Close.” We will cover:

    • Telephone Sales: How to get past the gatekeeper.
    • Face-to-Face: The power of the personal relationship.

    Today’s Action Item

    Look at your business. Are you running a B2B marathon or a B2C sprint? Your answer changes everything you post on social media today.

    Is your marketing a “plan” or just a “wish”? Let me know in the comments!

    eBook: “Marketing for Electrical Contractors” available to Newsletter subscribers.

    PDFs available for a more in-depth look at all subjects covered in this 8-week mini-series.

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    Week Seven – Sales: Why Learning Techniques is Important in Your 60’s

  • From Busy to Balanced: A New Look at Life in Your Sixties

    The Friday Update: Between Limbo and Launch

    As another Friday rolls around, life feels like it’s in a bit of a “limbo land.”

    We are currently as mentioned in last weeks Friday post, on standby for the arrival of my son’s first child.

    Our May travel plans are on hold, and I’m ready to zoom down the M3 at a moment’s notice to offer that promised support.

    On the professional side, the working week is closing out.

    Most of my energy has been poured into Ropho.

    What started in mid-January as a “new hobby” has quickly spiraled into an obsession,and is now officially, my new business alongside my consultancy work.

    It’s becoming a real-life case study in taking an idea people called “mad” for someone at my stage of life, and slowly turning it into something I’m genuinely proud of.

    As I have mentioned before it is an evolving thing, trying new ideas for me, far from perfect, but I did start after months, no years of thinking about writing a blog!. That I am proud of.

    Next week: I’ll be continuing my business series on planning and growth, focusing on B2B Marketing.

    This is the core of my consultancy, but I’ll be adding a fresh twist: Marketing strategy for new online businesses in your sixties (mine!).

    Since my life is shifting in more ways than I ever expected, I wanted to share some reflections on why I believe this is our most exciting decade yet.

    🌟 Our Most Exciting Decade Yet: A New Kind of Life Chapter

    There’s a moment in your sixties when the rhythm of life changes. It’s not necessarily a slowdown, but a shifting of gears.

    Responsibilities that once felt urgent start to loosen their grip, and the old definition of “retirement” as an ending begins to feel obsolete.

    For many of us, this decade is an invitation to redesign our lives to be more intentional and aligned, or in plain English, do what we want, when we want and how we want.

    The Changing Meaning of Work

    Work in our sixties is less about the ladder and more about purpose. Whether it’s consulting, creative projects, or a “second act” business, there is a profound joy in autonomy.

    • You choose work that fits your values.
    • You set boundaries you once struggled with.
    • You turn passions into projects, refusing to sacrifice well-being for someone else’s “urgency.”

    The Rebirth of Leisure

    This isn’t about “killing time” or squeezing rest between commitments.

    It’s about real leisure—the kind that replenishes the spirit. It’s morning walks, instead of morning meetings.

    Travel and adventure, at a pace you choose.

    “You’ve earned your time back, and now you’re the one who gets to call the shots on how you spend it.”

    Balancing Purpose and Rest

    Balance in your sixties isn’t something you find; it’s something you create. It might mean:

    • Three days of work instead of five.
    • A mix of volunteering and personal hobbies.
    • Time with grandchildren paired with dedicated time for yourself.

    The Freedom to Redesign

    After a lifetime of building plans around careers and family demands.

    Finally you have the freedom to experiment. New classes, new routines, new communities, some will stick, some won’t. But the process of evolving is profoundly energising.

    🥂 Here’s to Re-imagining

    If there’s a theme for this stage, it’s having Purpose in your life not productivity.

    Whether you are mentoring, building a community, or launching a “mad” new business like Ropho, purpose is personal.

    Your sixties aren’t about winding down; they are a re-imagining.

    It’s not about “staying young”—it’s about staying engaged and enjoying life.

    Here’s to working when it feels meaningful, resting when it feels right, and embracing a decade filled with intention, freedom, and possibility.

    Your sixties aren’t the final act—they’re a beautiful new chapter. And you get to write it.

    Wishing you all a wonderful Bank Holiday weekend—and hopefully, for me, some very special news from the M3!

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