The Rainy Day That Sparked a Business

It was raining in Akron, Ohio, when Johnson McCloud stepped into a doctor’s office with nothing but a . What happened next wasn’t luck — it was smart, human-centered selling.

The Product: Business Printing Supplies

Johnson was selling practical, everyday materials that nearly every business uses:

• Letterheads
• Envelopes
• Billheads
• Business cards

No high-tech gadgetry. No fancy sales funnel. Just clean designs, tactile samples, and thoughtful conversation.

His Strategy: Show, Don’t Sell

When the doctor seemed uninterested, Johnson didn’t push. Instead, he opened with:

“A day like this is a good day to write letters to delinquent patients.”

He got the doctor touching and evaluating paper samples, making the conversation natural and tactile. He used the weather, boredom, and downtime as his entry point.

Overcoming Objections the Smart Way

When price came up, Johnson:

• Quoted a reasonable $20.90 for 1,000 custom letterheads + envelopes
• Emphasized quality and savings over local printers
• Offered a written guarantee printed on the receipt

This removed the fear of regret and made the purchase feel safe and smart.

The Results: $57 in One Afternoon — and More to Come

That rainy afternoon, Johnson:

• Sold $57 worth of printing
• Earned $17.11 in commission
• Got three new referrals from the doctor

In just six months, he earned $1,400 in commissions — all from small orders, most under $45.

Lessons From Johnson McCloud’s Sales Method

Why This Still Works Today

While the product might change (think: branded notepads, digital printing, or even email templates), the method still works:

• Start conversations, don’t just pitch
• Use tactile or visual samples
• Customize your approach
• Follow up with referrals

Final Word: Sales Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Johnson McCloud didn’t rely on scripts or pressure. He made sales by being observant, offering quality, and creating a human connection. His story proves that even a rainy day and some stationery can build a business — if you approach it the right way.

Want to Try This Yourself?

Interested in selling business products, marketing materials, or digital print services? We can help you build a step-by-step plan — with no inventory or storefront required. Contact us to learn more.