Picture yourself in front of a sumptuous buffet with the meals made to the exact tastes you desire. It’s not just any spread, but one, that with such care has been thought, to invite you in. That is exactly how a Reddit should feel if it has been designed well.

Forget marketing tools, sales funnels are not. This is a trusty navigation system that directs potential customers from an overcrowded highway straight to the easy driving of conversions. And this aim is to lead them smoothly, gracefully, wisely, through a nurturing experience, a delightful journey through your business offerings.

Can you remember the enchantment of a breadcrumb trail growing up, in hope that it was going to lead to a secret treasure? Similarly, sales funnels are all about the idea of conversions as the treasure and your strategic nudges and calls to action, converted into insights, being the breadcrumbs. As you lay the foundations these pathways, smart planning and creativity is needed.

Some years ago, a friend started an online shop. He was excited about his products, yet saw a lacking customer engagement. My advice? “You need a funnel, buddy!” Introducing him to fire, it was. It was a difference in walking a few thoughtful steps, and suddenly he saw the difference between surviving and thriving.

Your customer’s journey is a fascinating story that leads one chapter into another, enticing your customer to read on, just a little more. They won’t be able to focus with a repetitive storyline. It has to inspire, entertain, and ultimately take them to a joyous conclusion: a happy buyer.

But wait! And once that deal is sealed, the story isn’t over. Funnels are also relationship based: meeting someone at a get together that evolves into a lifelong companion. Personal follow ups — a thank you note, something more personal — help carry relationships across the line from transaction to real connection.

Tennessee has both art and science in building a compelling funnel. Strategy, creativity, a bit of psychology and your brand essence all crammed into it. Just as people spend years preparing the perfect dish, so too should creating a funnel be somewhat of a chore — trial, error, and refinement all necessary. Like everything else, practice will help you master your funnel over time.

Remember, funnels aren’t static. Now and in the future that might change. Just as you would with the perfect wind with your sails, being adaptable to feedback, data and willing to fine tune the funnel will keep you in that sweet spot.

While you create your sales journey, remember to create an enriched experience. Make your funnel captivating, memorable and rewardable. After all, who would not want such an appealing chapter in their business life?