Gaining the attention of your target clients is very vital in driving up
sales. This is why each business, big or small, requires some very
powerful internet market strategies to service the red-hot competition
in this age. Sometimes it occurs that you are running on a very tight
budget. This means you might not be in a good position to hire a
top-notch marketer. However, there are a few simple yet effective tips
which you can employ to give just the best competitive edge that you
require. Now here are very effective, in fact, proven inexpensive
strategies to get you going with your marketing goal.
Free Gifts To Celebrities For Endorsement
Politicians
get endorsed in the campaigns. They know what it means to be endorsed
by a celebrity or a respected member of the community. As a marketer,
you need endorsement for your products so that you can get more people
asking for it. Now, if you are running on small budget, of course you
might not get those global celebrities to your side easily. But you can
use you local celebrity. In your backyard is a teacher or dog-trainer
who people talk about most. Get them to them to say something about your
products. Just send free gifts to them and follow up with them in a few
days to seek their honest opinion about the gifts you sent them. If
they return an approval, let your target audience know that your
products carry the endorsement of that famous dog-trainer or teacher.
Strong Social Media Presence
Today
every marketer knows that the people they need are on social media. You
too should aim to hit this gold mine with a bang, only that you should
be choosy. It is not just that Twitter or Facebook account that will get
things moving your way. No, think outside the box. As mentioned
earlier, every marketer is baying for the attention and nod of people on
the big social media platforms like the ones already mentioned. But you
can take a different route, for instance, create a LinkedIn group. Post
useful and fresh content for your professional network and link this to
your marketing page so that you can channel traffic there. The rule of
the game is that you should not hard-sell on your professional network,
doing this can dent your image.
Tap into the power of popular niche blogs
In
your industry, there are already bloggers who rule the online
atmosphere. Do not be jealous about their fat traffic. Instead, tap into
that resource. You can offer free gifts to the bloggers so that they
can tryout and write a post on it. Also, you can ask them to allow you
write a guest post on their platforms and then backlinks to your own
page. This is a very effective away to drive target eyeballs to your
marketing page.
Tap the potential of video sharing platforms
YouTube
a lone has nearly 1 billion unique visitors on a monthly basis. And
there are several video sharing platforms besides YouTube, so if you can
create a powerful marketing video clip of your product, there is no way
you can fail to drive a good chunk of these visitors to your marketing
landing page. Avoid lengthy videos, just show something that would
excite someone to action and there you have it. even if you are running
on a tight budget, you can get someone to do a good promotional video
for you for less that $10. Just get to the freelancing sites like lance
and Freelancer.
Using e-book for marketing campaign
The
most storied marketers out there understand the power of e-books. First,
they are easy and cheap to create. Just like video marketing, you can
get someone on the aforementioned freelancing sites to create you a
powerful e-book. Basically, you can just convert your own blog posts
into an e-book and then offer it up for sale on platforms like
Amazon.com. Remember you aim is not to generate profits from cover
prices; instead, you are looking to squeeze the traffic juicy part of
it. So be sure to include links to your site on the first few pages of
the book.
As you can see, these strategies may look very
familiar; however, it is the approach you take that would let you make
the most out of them. Remember that as your competitors will be sinking
huge dollars into their marketing campaign, you can get all these done
without spending a dime. And this makes enough business sense.
5 Internet Marketing Strategies for a Small Budget
/
Advantages of Hiring Melbourne Promo Staff From A Reputed Agency Only
/
In today€™s ever-changing marketing world, field marketing or
experiential marketing has become an inevitable part of any marketing
activity. Now, companies frequently hire Melbourne promo staff in order
to help boost their brand image, use them at marketing events, and steer
sales and traffic for their company. It is always advised to hire a
reputable, esteemed promotional staffing agency only. By doing this, you
will realize what difference good quality promo staff can bring to your
endorsement, as opposed to inexperienced staff. An experienced and
reputed promotional staffing agency will sign up first-rate promotional
and product sampling staff only, so that they can leave a positive
impression on their customers. You can hire promotional models at
different kinds of marketing events, including trade shows, corporate
functions, product launches, exhibitions, street-based promotions etc.
What good Melbourne promo staff can do?
By
hiring Melbourne promo staff from a reputed agency, you will be able
top create genuine connections with your customers, and leave a
long-lasting impression for your company. With their flexible lifestyle
and outgoing nature, experienced promotional staff will be able to go
down well with your varied promotional pursuits. If you aim at
maximizing your company€™s impact and success, it is always advisable to
hire a viable and experienced promo staff only. They will have a sense
of perfection in everything they do, so that your prospective customers
receive a clear-cut message about your company, including its products
and services. They will be able to create an authentic link with your
consumers, and the results that you receive can not be better.
What bad promotional staff will do?
If
you hire novice, inexperienced, unprofessional promotional staff for
your company€™s marketing, they may do irreparable damage to your
company€™s overall reputation. Ultimately, the consumers may ultimately
guess that your brand is not reputed in the market, and not good enough
to satisfy their requirements and expectations. You can avoid this sorry
situation by hiring Melbourne promo staff from a reputed promo staffing
agency. With their expertise and experience, they will be able to carry
your brand image and company message more effectively. Hiring apt promo
staff that can successfully catch up with your brand will often produce
positive results for your company.
Promotional models engaged
at a reputed promotional staffing agency will intend at bringing
positive differences to any marketing event, no matter how small or
large scale it is. Best promotional staff is the one that can comprehend
the importance of each and every customers that comes to your event,
and make a long-lasting impression on his or her mind. With their sense
of self assurance, sales panache and product affinity, they will just do
the things that are favorable for your company€™s sales and reputation.
You cannot deny the significance of having an experienced Melbourne
promo staff at your event, as it will play a significant role in
promoting your company, increasing your client base, and making you a
success in the industry.
Midsized Company Marketing Communications Budget Planning
/
This is the time of year when most companies, brands and
nonprofits are involved with developing their marketing communications
plans and budgets for next year. This is not an easy task in any year
but, whether you're already deeply involved in the process, or just
starting, the task is even more challenging this year given the
continuing global and economic uncertainties.
More than ever, increased accountability and scrutiny of the decision-making process is a necessity for improving marketing communications ROI. Customers, whether existing or new, have a multitude of choices for evaluating and selecting a product or service, so it's extremely important to be on the same page with them.
What follows recommends a three-pronged approach to help you develop a budget and plan to profitably impact your marketplace.
Understand Your Customer Target Audience
Like most managers, you probably believe you fully understand the wants and needs of your customers, as well as their knowledge of your brand. But with so many new methods available to customers for comparing your brand to competition, are you really sure?
Is it smart to plan and commit your precious marketing communication dollars to what you think you know about customers? Maybe it would be a lot smarter to learn directly from them what they want, and how you stack up to their needs.
Ultimately, that means market research. Whether you're a B2B, B2C or a nonprofit marketer, now is the time to learn from your customer.
A Marketing Communications Audit Can Sharpen Your Message
Once you completely understand your customer, the next step is to focus on your message. The single greatest source of leverage you have is the quality of messaging, whether it's a television commercial, a post on a Facebook page, your website, articles, blogs or whitepapers. When messaging fails to deliver, it's usually not the platforms that fail, but rather the lack of integrated focused brand communications.
A marketing communications audit, conducted by outside consultants who don't have a vested interest or an ax to grind, can - like a financial audit - be an enormous benefit. It will tell you whether all of the creative elements you employ - subject matter, graphics, copy, and tone and manner - are working together with one clear and meaningful message to your customers, as well as your employees.
An additional benefit of a marketing communications audit is its ability to help determine your communications mix and resulting budgets. For instance, based on customer needs, perhaps more should be spent in content marketing, with articles and blogs, and less in paid advertising, consumer promotions or coupons. Just make sure all of your messaging is saying the same thing to meet those customer needs. It's a matter of reinforcing the image you want to convey and trust in your brand.
Consider Marketing Communications Consultants
No one is doubting that smart, dedicated people have been involved in developing your marketing communications budget and plan. But, if you're like most midsized companies, your people are probably stretched to the limit.
Consider partnering with an established, senior level consultant to help your team develop, refine and, if appropriate, implement your programs. Above all, make sure a consultant has extensive experience across disciplines, industries and brands, and isn't trapped by "this is the way we've always done it" thinking. An apolitical team, with a willingness to "tell it like it is", with fresh eyes can be a major asset to your profitable growth.
In today's unsettled environment, an upfront focus on developing budgets and plans can go a long way to improving marketing communications ROI.
More than ever, increased accountability and scrutiny of the decision-making process is a necessity for improving marketing communications ROI. Customers, whether existing or new, have a multitude of choices for evaluating and selecting a product or service, so it's extremely important to be on the same page with them.
What follows recommends a three-pronged approach to help you develop a budget and plan to profitably impact your marketplace.
Understand Your Customer Target Audience
Like most managers, you probably believe you fully understand the wants and needs of your customers, as well as their knowledge of your brand. But with so many new methods available to customers for comparing your brand to competition, are you really sure?
Is it smart to plan and commit your precious marketing communication dollars to what you think you know about customers? Maybe it would be a lot smarter to learn directly from them what they want, and how you stack up to their needs.
Ultimately, that means market research. Whether you're a B2B, B2C or a nonprofit marketer, now is the time to learn from your customer.
- What attributes or qualities are important to them in selecting a brand? Beyond price, what other factors influence their purchase decision?
- How do they rate your brand versus competition? What are your strongest and weakest attributes, and what do you need to improve?
A Marketing Communications Audit Can Sharpen Your Message
Once you completely understand your customer, the next step is to focus on your message. The single greatest source of leverage you have is the quality of messaging, whether it's a television commercial, a post on a Facebook page, your website, articles, blogs or whitepapers. When messaging fails to deliver, it's usually not the platforms that fail, but rather the lack of integrated focused brand communications.
A marketing communications audit, conducted by outside consultants who don't have a vested interest or an ax to grind, can - like a financial audit - be an enormous benefit. It will tell you whether all of the creative elements you employ - subject matter, graphics, copy, and tone and manner - are working together with one clear and meaningful message to your customers, as well as your employees.
An additional benefit of a marketing communications audit is its ability to help determine your communications mix and resulting budgets. For instance, based on customer needs, perhaps more should be spent in content marketing, with articles and blogs, and less in paid advertising, consumer promotions or coupons. Just make sure all of your messaging is saying the same thing to meet those customer needs. It's a matter of reinforcing the image you want to convey and trust in your brand.
Consider Marketing Communications Consultants
No one is doubting that smart, dedicated people have been involved in developing your marketing communications budget and plan. But, if you're like most midsized companies, your people are probably stretched to the limit.
Consider partnering with an established, senior level consultant to help your team develop, refine and, if appropriate, implement your programs. Above all, make sure a consultant has extensive experience across disciplines, industries and brands, and isn't trapped by "this is the way we've always done it" thinking. An apolitical team, with a willingness to "tell it like it is", with fresh eyes can be a major asset to your profitable growth.
In today's unsettled environment, an upfront focus on developing budgets and plans can go a long way to improving marketing communications ROI.
Gary Kullberg is the CEO of the Kullberg Consulting Group, LLC ( http://www.KullbergConsultingGroup.com
), founded in 1994 to provide companies and nonprofits with strategic
and executional marketing communications solutions. The Company consists
of sixty entrepreneurially driven senior level professionals, across
disciplines, who have worked with over 585 organizations in 21 major
industry groups. Because of its unique structure, clients are able to
"cherry pick" the specific disciplines(s) to meet their needs, in a
timely, cost efficient and unbiased manner. Gary is considered an
authority in the B2B, B2C and nonprofit marketplaces. He has served as
the outsourced Chief Marketing Officer for three companies, as well as
on five nonprofit Executive Boards, one as Vice Chair and two as Chair.
Disclaimer Policy
/
This blog is a personal blog written and edited by us. This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation. The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content. The owner(s) of this blog is not compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the blog owners. If we claim or appear to be experts on a certain topic or product or service area, we will only endorse products or services that we believe, based on our expertise, are worthy of such endorsement. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. This blog does contain content which might present a conflict of interest. This content may not always be identified.
Building Marketing Plans Using the Customer Buying Cycle
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Are you ready to build a marketing plan?
Defining a target market and understanding the Customer Buying Cycle are keys to the development of an effective marketing plan.
Here is what you need to know to start that development.
Who is your target market?
Although you may want to sell your product or service to everyone, it may not be practical nor a good fit. You need to focus on a segment of the total population that is the best target for your offering and you need to learn as much about them as you possibly can. For example, who are they, where do they live, what is the 'pain' they are trying to solve, and how do they shop. A well-defined target market is the most crucial piece of an effective marketing plan and will be the backbone.
How do they purchase?
Once you have defined your target market, you need to understand how they make their purchase decisions and develop activities that will influence those decisions.
There are six distinct steps that an individual goes through when making a purchase decision. Some of these steps may be done instinctively when a simple purchase is involved (e.g. a magazine or a pair of shoes). However, deciding on a larger purchase (e.g. a car or a new home) may require more time and more thought as the buyer moves toward their purchase decision.
Regardless of the $ value of the purchase, buyers will flow through the following stages: Awareness, Knowledge, Liking, Preference, Commitment and Buy. Each of these important steps has its own unique attributes and cannot be skipped.
The ultimate goal of a good marketer is to reach the right target market and have them take an action leading to a specific result. Satisfied customers become loyal customers and will refer your product or service to others. You need to create activities in your plan that will help guide prospective purchasers through the buying cycle towards the desired outcome.
Marketing for each stage has unique definitions, goals and activities. Below we provide a definition, goals for the target market and for the marketer and typical activities for each stage.
To illustrate each stage, we will use the example of buying a car. It is important to realize that purchasing a service (instead of a product) would follow the same cycle and stages.
Stage 1 - Awareness
Definition: Realizing; being conscious of something
Goal for the Target Market
In the Awareness stage, the target market realizes they have a problem to solve. In the example of a car purchase, the customer has a transportation problem. They will start to consider different options - public transit, car pooling, or buying a car. They need to become aware of all their options including the different car companies.
Goal for the Marketer
As a marketer, you need to make your presence known and attract the attention of potential customers so that you are included in their list of solutions to their problem. You want your target market to receive a glimpse of who you are and what you are offering. In our car purchase example, you need to make the buyer aware that you make and sell good cars. The goal is to get the buyer a bit excited and looking for more information about your product or service.
Typical Activities
Typical activities or tactics for creating awareness might be an advertisement in the local newspaper or on the radio, or business cards or the creation of a new website.
Stage 2 - Knowledge
Definition: a body of facts accumulated over time; the fact of knowing
Goal for the Target Market
Here, the target market is looking for more information about any of the options that have piqued their interest. They will gather information to help them narrow down the list. In our car example, they will try to find out more about different car manufacturers through brochures, websites, magazines or car shows.
Goal for the Marketer
The marketer must ensure that there is enough information available to their potential customers in places where they can find it. In our car example, you want to provide them with information about your different car models and to provide that information where they will go - i.e. car dealerships, websites, car shows, detailed ads in car magazines, or reviews.
Typical Activities
You want activities that will allow you to provide additional detail on your product or service. Advertising with product information or user examples, a direct mail package or brochures will help provide knowledge.
Stage 3 - Liking
Definition: having the same characteristics; similar; equal; to be pleased with
Goal for the Target Market
The target market has now gathered information on several of their options and they need to determine which ones they like and which ones they can eliminate. In our car example, they are ready for a test drive, to read an existing customer testimonial or to review a detailed product comparison in a car magazine.
Goal for the Marketer
The goal for the marketer is simple - create liking for your product or service. You need to create activities that strengthen your position with the potential customer. In our car example, you need to provide a positive experience when they visit the showroom or read an article in a magazine.
Typical Activities
Customer references, telemarketing, a demo or test-drive are activities that would help guide a potential customer towards liking your solution.
Stage 4 - Preference
Definition: the act of choosing or favouring one above another
Goal for the Target Market
Now, the target market needs to decide which option they prefer on their short list. They continue to gather more information and may seek out recommendations from friends and family. In our car example, they may take another test drive with a family member or start to focus on more specific areas for comparison like warranty or awards.
Goal for the Marketer
The marketer needs to ensure the target market chooses his offering above the competitors. You need to be aware of what is most important for customers and highlight how you provide those particular benefits. In our car example, you may be aware that safety and financing are important to your target market. You will need to highlight those areas and provide proof of how you outperform your competitors.
Typical Activities
Marketing activities in this stage could include customer testimonials, pricing comparisons, usability comparisons or special offers to help the market solidify their choice. In our car example, pricing and special deals could be used to help create preference.
Stage 5 - Commitment
Definition: To entrust; to consign; to involve; to pledge
Goal for the Target Market
In this stage, the target market has to make a commitment to their preferred choice. They may review all the information received earlier and will seek out positive reinforcement for their decision. The target customer is ready to take another action - asking about a contract, purchase options or incentives, walking with the product to the cash or placing an online order.
Goal for the Marketer
Having a channel ready at this stage to help facilitate the commitment will ensure the deal is closed promptly and smoothly for your customer. Setting up and having the appropriate channels stocked with product and ready to fulfill orders smoothly is very critical to successful purchases. A good marketer will have activities in their plan to educate the sales teams and the channels (e.g. dealers). In our car example, providing financing and pricing offers as well as offering a great warranty will help the customer commit.
Typical Activities
Marketing activities might include sales training, customer service and purchase incentives.
Stage 6 - Buy/Sell/Loyalty
Definition: Buy - to purchase; to acquire in exchange; to believe.
Goal for the Target Market
Their goal is to purchase their desired option. They want to make a final decision and exchange money for your product or service. They want to sign the contract or purchase order, provide payment and walk out the door with their purchase. In our car example, they are handing over the check and taking delivery of their new car.
Goal for the Marketer
The marketer needs to achieve two goals - the acquisition of a customer and the retention of that customer. You need to ensure your customers have a positive purchase experience, leave with a smile and a desire to return to you or to recommend you to others. In our car example, that might include reducing the paperwork to get the deal done, a deal on services, a thank-you letter or gift.
Typical Activities
A smooth purchase process will help the target market make their purchase. It is also important to have activities following the purchase such as a repeat or referral incentive, easy access to service, an online support group, or a newsletter. This will help keep your customer group engaged and content.
Summarizing the Buying Cycle
Focusing on a specific target market and how they move through the Awareness to Buy Cycle will help you create a successful marketing plan with appropriate activities. The steps and the process are not myths; they are real and are integral components in a customer's purchasing decision.
Sometimes, we are in a hurry to get the end result and we want to skip steps and make assumptions about our target market. In most instances, this results in work having to be re-done, timelines extended and an increase of expenses. Taking the time to do the thinking and the planning will pay off in the long run with a successful marketing plan, satisfied customers and a good ROI.
Defining a target market and understanding the Customer Buying Cycle are keys to the development of an effective marketing plan.
Here is what you need to know to start that development.
Who is your target market?
Although you may want to sell your product or service to everyone, it may not be practical nor a good fit. You need to focus on a segment of the total population that is the best target for your offering and you need to learn as much about them as you possibly can. For example, who are they, where do they live, what is the 'pain' they are trying to solve, and how do they shop. A well-defined target market is the most crucial piece of an effective marketing plan and will be the backbone.
How do they purchase?
Once you have defined your target market, you need to understand how they make their purchase decisions and develop activities that will influence those decisions.
There are six distinct steps that an individual goes through when making a purchase decision. Some of these steps may be done instinctively when a simple purchase is involved (e.g. a magazine or a pair of shoes). However, deciding on a larger purchase (e.g. a car or a new home) may require more time and more thought as the buyer moves toward their purchase decision.
Regardless of the $ value of the purchase, buyers will flow through the following stages: Awareness, Knowledge, Liking, Preference, Commitment and Buy. Each of these important steps has its own unique attributes and cannot be skipped.
The ultimate goal of a good marketer is to reach the right target market and have them take an action leading to a specific result. Satisfied customers become loyal customers and will refer your product or service to others. You need to create activities in your plan that will help guide prospective purchasers through the buying cycle towards the desired outcome.
Marketing for each stage has unique definitions, goals and activities. Below we provide a definition, goals for the target market and for the marketer and typical activities for each stage.
To illustrate each stage, we will use the example of buying a car. It is important to realize that purchasing a service (instead of a product) would follow the same cycle and stages.
Stage 1 - Awareness
Definition: Realizing; being conscious of something
Goal for the Target Market
In the Awareness stage, the target market realizes they have a problem to solve. In the example of a car purchase, the customer has a transportation problem. They will start to consider different options - public transit, car pooling, or buying a car. They need to become aware of all their options including the different car companies.
Goal for the Marketer
As a marketer, you need to make your presence known and attract the attention of potential customers so that you are included in their list of solutions to their problem. You want your target market to receive a glimpse of who you are and what you are offering. In our car purchase example, you need to make the buyer aware that you make and sell good cars. The goal is to get the buyer a bit excited and looking for more information about your product or service.
Typical Activities
Typical activities or tactics for creating awareness might be an advertisement in the local newspaper or on the radio, or business cards or the creation of a new website.
Stage 2 - Knowledge
Definition: a body of facts accumulated over time; the fact of knowing
Goal for the Target Market
Here, the target market is looking for more information about any of the options that have piqued their interest. They will gather information to help them narrow down the list. In our car example, they will try to find out more about different car manufacturers through brochures, websites, magazines or car shows.
Goal for the Marketer
The marketer must ensure that there is enough information available to their potential customers in places where they can find it. In our car example, you want to provide them with information about your different car models and to provide that information where they will go - i.e. car dealerships, websites, car shows, detailed ads in car magazines, or reviews.
Typical Activities
You want activities that will allow you to provide additional detail on your product or service. Advertising with product information or user examples, a direct mail package or brochures will help provide knowledge.
Stage 3 - Liking
Definition: having the same characteristics; similar; equal; to be pleased with
Goal for the Target Market
The target market has now gathered information on several of their options and they need to determine which ones they like and which ones they can eliminate. In our car example, they are ready for a test drive, to read an existing customer testimonial or to review a detailed product comparison in a car magazine.
Goal for the Marketer
The goal for the marketer is simple - create liking for your product or service. You need to create activities that strengthen your position with the potential customer. In our car example, you need to provide a positive experience when they visit the showroom or read an article in a magazine.
Typical Activities
Customer references, telemarketing, a demo or test-drive are activities that would help guide a potential customer towards liking your solution.
Stage 4 - Preference
Definition: the act of choosing or favouring one above another
Goal for the Target Market
Now, the target market needs to decide which option they prefer on their short list. They continue to gather more information and may seek out recommendations from friends and family. In our car example, they may take another test drive with a family member or start to focus on more specific areas for comparison like warranty or awards.
Goal for the Marketer
The marketer needs to ensure the target market chooses his offering above the competitors. You need to be aware of what is most important for customers and highlight how you provide those particular benefits. In our car example, you may be aware that safety and financing are important to your target market. You will need to highlight those areas and provide proof of how you outperform your competitors.
Typical Activities
Marketing activities in this stage could include customer testimonials, pricing comparisons, usability comparisons or special offers to help the market solidify their choice. In our car example, pricing and special deals could be used to help create preference.
Stage 5 - Commitment
Definition: To entrust; to consign; to involve; to pledge
Goal for the Target Market
In this stage, the target market has to make a commitment to their preferred choice. They may review all the information received earlier and will seek out positive reinforcement for their decision. The target customer is ready to take another action - asking about a contract, purchase options or incentives, walking with the product to the cash or placing an online order.
Goal for the Marketer
Having a channel ready at this stage to help facilitate the commitment will ensure the deal is closed promptly and smoothly for your customer. Setting up and having the appropriate channels stocked with product and ready to fulfill orders smoothly is very critical to successful purchases. A good marketer will have activities in their plan to educate the sales teams and the channels (e.g. dealers). In our car example, providing financing and pricing offers as well as offering a great warranty will help the customer commit.
Typical Activities
Marketing activities might include sales training, customer service and purchase incentives.
Stage 6 - Buy/Sell/Loyalty
Definition: Buy - to purchase; to acquire in exchange; to believe.
Goal for the Target Market
Their goal is to purchase their desired option. They want to make a final decision and exchange money for your product or service. They want to sign the contract or purchase order, provide payment and walk out the door with their purchase. In our car example, they are handing over the check and taking delivery of their new car.
Goal for the Marketer
The marketer needs to achieve two goals - the acquisition of a customer and the retention of that customer. You need to ensure your customers have a positive purchase experience, leave with a smile and a desire to return to you or to recommend you to others. In our car example, that might include reducing the paperwork to get the deal done, a deal on services, a thank-you letter or gift.
Typical Activities
A smooth purchase process will help the target market make their purchase. It is also important to have activities following the purchase such as a repeat or referral incentive, easy access to service, an online support group, or a newsletter. This will help keep your customer group engaged and content.
Summarizing the Buying Cycle
Focusing on a specific target market and how they move through the Awareness to Buy Cycle will help you create a successful marketing plan with appropriate activities. The steps and the process are not myths; they are real and are integral components in a customer's purchasing decision.
Sometimes, we are in a hurry to get the end result and we want to skip steps and make assumptions about our target market. In most instances, this results in work having to be re-done, timelines extended and an increase of expenses. Taking the time to do the thinking and the planning will pay off in the long run with a successful marketing plan, satisfied customers and a good ROI.
Please look on http://www.tmt-solutions.com
for our next article in the series - Choosing a Target Market. More
detail will be shared and each subsequent article will talk about each
stage in the Awareness to Buy Cycle.
Marketing Tips to Find Customers for Your Business
/
If you're not attracting customers willing to pay your fees it
may be that you are either delivering the wrong marketing message,
pitching to the wrong crowd--or both! You have just one chance to make a
great first impression with potential customers. Be sure to deliver the
right message to the right audience.
Often, very talented and capable business owners who are very good at what they do, simply are not trained marketers. It is amazing how many spend tons of cash to have someone design a pretty logo and slick marketing tools that will never bring a response, simply because the materials focus on the company rather than the most important party in any transaction--the customer.
It's important for you, the business owner, to truly understand exactly who your ideal customer is and what moves that individual to purchase the type of product or service you offer. You can start by creating a general "client profile" or description of your "best" customer:
1. Demographics (information such as geographical location, age, gender, income).
2. Psychographics (what truly motivates the buyer to choose and purchase the product).
3. How your ideal prospects spend their time (what types of organizations they join, what they read, where they tend gather--especially in groups with other ideal customers).
Where to Find Prospects
When you have a clear picture of the ideal prospect in mind you can more easily figure out where to connect with people who are more likely to buy your goods and services. For example, knowing what publications they read can help you determine where to place ads or generate earned media coverage. Knowing where they tend to gather (i.e. professional association meetings, community events, networking groups) can help you create an effective networking plan. Knowing how your ideal client tends to utilize the Internet can help you connect on social media.
What to Say: Your Marketing Message
1. Be able to briefly and clearly describe what your company does in 30 seconds or less. (This brief description is often referred to as an "elevator speech").
2. Make sure your marketing message clearly describes what you do and the customer benefits of working with you (results your clients will experience).
3. Always present a clear "call to action"--in other words, be able to describe the next steps an individual or organization can take to learn more or work with you.
Bottom line: Know--really know your customer. Make sure your message demonstrates that you understand his or her needs, and that your company is the right choice to meet or exceed those needs.
Often, very talented and capable business owners who are very good at what they do, simply are not trained marketers. It is amazing how many spend tons of cash to have someone design a pretty logo and slick marketing tools that will never bring a response, simply because the materials focus on the company rather than the most important party in any transaction--the customer.
It's important for you, the business owner, to truly understand exactly who your ideal customer is and what moves that individual to purchase the type of product or service you offer. You can start by creating a general "client profile" or description of your "best" customer:
1. Demographics (information such as geographical location, age, gender, income).
2. Psychographics (what truly motivates the buyer to choose and purchase the product).
3. How your ideal prospects spend their time (what types of organizations they join, what they read, where they tend gather--especially in groups with other ideal customers).
Where to Find Prospects
When you have a clear picture of the ideal prospect in mind you can more easily figure out where to connect with people who are more likely to buy your goods and services. For example, knowing what publications they read can help you determine where to place ads or generate earned media coverage. Knowing where they tend to gather (i.e. professional association meetings, community events, networking groups) can help you create an effective networking plan. Knowing how your ideal client tends to utilize the Internet can help you connect on social media.
What to Say: Your Marketing Message
1. Be able to briefly and clearly describe what your company does in 30 seconds or less. (This brief description is often referred to as an "elevator speech").
2. Make sure your marketing message clearly describes what you do and the customer benefits of working with you (results your clients will experience).
3. Always present a clear "call to action"--in other words, be able to describe the next steps an individual or organization can take to learn more or work with you.
Bottom line: Know--really know your customer. Make sure your message demonstrates that you understand his or her needs, and that your company is the right choice to meet or exceed those needs.
Want to use this article? Feel free, as long as you also include the following:
Juana, a business communication consultant, works with organizations and professionals seeking to communicate more effectively with internal and external clients to increase visibility, credibility, buy-in and revenues. J-Hart Communications delivers group workshops, consulting and one-on-one coaching in marketing and public relations, presentation skills and communicating change. For more information, visit Juana at http://www.jhart.tv or call (702) 257-6646.
Juana, a business communication consultant, works with organizations and professionals seeking to communicate more effectively with internal and external clients to increase visibility, credibility, buy-in and revenues. J-Hart Communications delivers group workshops, consulting and one-on-one coaching in marketing and public relations, presentation skills and communicating change. For more information, visit Juana at http://www.jhart.tv or call (702) 257-6646.
Mobile Marketing - Building Brand Loyalty
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There is a lot of potential out there in using mobile marketing,
but there is also a lot of risk. Just as you can easily pick up a large
network of leads, you have to remember that you can quickly lose every
one of them if you're not considered trustworthy. Here are some tips to
help you build up customer loyalty.
Treat Your Loyal Customer Well
Always be good to your loyal customers. If a customer is purchasing from you on a regular basis, offer them different coupons and discounts. This will go a long way toward building a sense of loyalty. The customer will realize that there's something in it for them if they keep shopping with you.
Give Something for Free
More than offering up a coupon or some type of discount code for a future purchase, you can always give something away for frequent purchases. For instance, if a customer purchases two items from you, you can throw in a third item for free. This item doesn't have to be something of great value. Think about an eBook or free shipping or something in that area.
Don't Spam
Always respect a customer's privacy. When they opt into your mobile network, they're giving you valuable information via their cellular phone numbers. This information could easily be used for nefarious purposes; and even spamming their phone's inbox is going over the line. So you have to make sure that you're always respecting privacy. Never leave unwanted messages and never give that personal information away to anyone.
Ask for Feedback
You should always be willing to ask members within your mobile network for feedback on your business. You will find out exactly what you're doing incorrectly by asking someone for their honest opinion. You might not like what you hear, but you need to hear it.
Be Honest
If you have a lead or customer out there with whom you're communicating, you should let them know what your intentions are. You're not trying to be their friend. You're not talking for the sake of talking. You're trying to sell a product and any lead needs to know this up front.
Test, Test and Test Again
Certain things you do in marketing are going to have more success than other things you try, so you always need to monitor your progress. Unless you're monitoring what you're doing and how it's going, you're never going to know where to change or to adapt your strategy.
Get Your Pricing Right
Unless you're monitoring the market's prices per your respective niche, you won't know for sure just how to price your products. Using your best guess or offering what you think is a great deal is a surefire way to lose money. You need to offer prices within the competitive market range.
Show Your Appreciation
No matter if you're dealing with a one-time customer, a repeat customer, or even a lead that doesn't become a customer at all, it's important that you're always showing appreciation. Never neglect to speak kindly and always remember to say thank you.
The more you focus on your customers, the more loyalty you're going to build. Use the tips provided above to help you become a more customer-friendly businessperson.
Treat Your Loyal Customer Well
Always be good to your loyal customers. If a customer is purchasing from you on a regular basis, offer them different coupons and discounts. This will go a long way toward building a sense of loyalty. The customer will realize that there's something in it for them if they keep shopping with you.
Give Something for Free
More than offering up a coupon or some type of discount code for a future purchase, you can always give something away for frequent purchases. For instance, if a customer purchases two items from you, you can throw in a third item for free. This item doesn't have to be something of great value. Think about an eBook or free shipping or something in that area.
Don't Spam
Always respect a customer's privacy. When they opt into your mobile network, they're giving you valuable information via their cellular phone numbers. This information could easily be used for nefarious purposes; and even spamming their phone's inbox is going over the line. So you have to make sure that you're always respecting privacy. Never leave unwanted messages and never give that personal information away to anyone.
Ask for Feedback
You should always be willing to ask members within your mobile network for feedback on your business. You will find out exactly what you're doing incorrectly by asking someone for their honest opinion. You might not like what you hear, but you need to hear it.
Be Honest
If you have a lead or customer out there with whom you're communicating, you should let them know what your intentions are. You're not trying to be their friend. You're not talking for the sake of talking. You're trying to sell a product and any lead needs to know this up front.
Test, Test and Test Again
Certain things you do in marketing are going to have more success than other things you try, so you always need to monitor your progress. Unless you're monitoring what you're doing and how it's going, you're never going to know where to change or to adapt your strategy.
Get Your Pricing Right
Unless you're monitoring the market's prices per your respective niche, you won't know for sure just how to price your products. Using your best guess or offering what you think is a great deal is a surefire way to lose money. You need to offer prices within the competitive market range.
Show Your Appreciation
No matter if you're dealing with a one-time customer, a repeat customer, or even a lead that doesn't become a customer at all, it's important that you're always showing appreciation. Never neglect to speak kindly and always remember to say thank you.
The more you focus on your customers, the more loyalty you're going to build. Use the tips provided above to help you become a more customer-friendly businessperson.
For more great information on ways to improve your marketing efforts come to http://blog.whitebullmarketing.com/mobile-marketing-sms-tips-for-your-success/ Now.
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