3 Tips to Stay Ahead of the Game

Its my birthday!  As a present to my followers, I've asked guest diva Courtney Young to grace us with her words of wisdom concerning business marketing on a shoestring budget. Courtney is one of the sharpest minds in public relations and cause marketing.  Her company, Foresight, LLC, is making some great moves in non-profit and small business marketing.  If you're interested in staying ahead of the game, then open your present! Surprise!

Smooches~ The Shoestring Diva

3 Tips to Stay Ahead of the Game!
Courtney Young

You made it through 2009 and here are three tips to stay ahead of the game in 2010!


1) APPRECIATE YOUR CUSTOMERS

Sure you know your business, but do you know your customers? Well… if you don't, you should. If you think you do, it's time to check in or check your bottom line, because that's your truth teller. Customers are the very lifeline that keeps your business operating. Their changing taste and preferences vary from time to time so it's up to you to keep them interested. That is if you want them to keep your business open. For example, you could offer a free gift to repeat customers; establish a referral program with a discount attached to encourage new customers with similar taste. The point is keep up with them and they will keep up with you.

Remember: Keep it simple. Give them what they want, but don't break the bank.

2) SHARE YOUR ADVERTISING COST

Do you have a business neighbor that has a non-competing product line? Sure you do. Why not share the HIGH cost of advertising with them. In this economy, quality and impactful marketing are vital for any business venture, so why not get the most for your money? If you're hosting an event to introduce a new product line, consider inviting a neighboring business to split the advertising cost by sharing the advertising space. Picture this: a magazine advertisement with your business offering on the right and theirs on the left! Examples of cost-share partners include: Boutiques (shoe - clothes), Health/ Beauty ( hair salon- massage spa), Special Events (pastry baker- event planner), etc.

Remember: Its business. You’re getting bigger bang if they share in paying the bucks!

3) BE CONSISTENT

The high cost of losing customers far out ways keeping in touch with them! It's pretty simple. Set yourself a six month plan of action to keep your customers informed about product releases, changing trends, discount offerings, and/or product line reminders. This tactic will vary based on your product or service offerings, but the theory is consistency. For example, you can send out a monthly email with product promotions, a postcard with birthday discounts, or even host private showings on new product lines.

Remember: You want to stay ahead of the competition and sometimes all it takes is to stay on their mind.

I'd wish you all best of luck! If you use the simple tips in your marketing plan, then you won't need luck!


Courtney Young

cyoung@fcllc-online.com