One of the most valuable assets both your company and your prospects possess is time. Business relationships are both formed and dissolved faster than ever -- based on effectively meeting customer needs (or not).
If you want to make the most of precious time to attract the best level of new customers for optimum profits, then you will want to keep reading...
Marketing Communications is the art of most effectively appealing to your ideal customer's needs. The appeal must touch their minds, emotions and wallets. There is no better investment for success than to get your Marketing Communications FINE TUNED in all your Advertising and Marketing (print, web, social media, etc.).
The 3 Biggest Marketing Mistakes That Rob You Of Profits
There is business being done all around you right now. Opportunity abounds in every economical climate. If it is not abounding for your business, (1) either you have a lousy product or service, (2) or you need professional marketing services (from a company like Covenant Designs of course) that attract new business using today's successful marketing strategies.
Unless your company uses a dedicated marketing communications professional, doing business becomes like trying to saw down a tree with an old, dull saw -- it can still be done, just slowly and with a lot of unnecessary struggle.
These are the three avoidable mistakes that we, as a Dallas Advertising Agency see most often that kill off the profits you could be enjoying:
1• Not getting to the point. You must quickly state your Value Proposition to your prospect. Respect everyone's time and communicate what you have to offer in the way that best appeals to them. What is the value for them to engage with your business proposal or your services? Unless your marketing and advertising quickly states your value, you are missing opportunities left and right. Many businesses fail badly here and don't even realize it because they...
2• Fail to focus on benefits. Businesses know themselves and their business. Good right? Not entirely! The most successful businesses know their customers. Marketing and advertising that speaks your language but fails to speak your customer's language is simply wasted money.
Many businesses sincerely imagine they are promoting benefits, when in reality, they are pushing Features at their prospects. There is a world of difference. Put your marketing in the hands of a professional that clearly knows the difference between benefits and features and your ROI will gain much more traction. Read More on Banefits vs. Features here.
3• Behind The Times with Social Media Marketing. The third reason we see so many businesses struggling is that their advertising methods are not in sync with their customers. Today social media marketing has exploded in size and popularity, but many businesses are at a loss as how to take advantage of this powerful new media.
Social Media Marketing communicates in a different way than corporations are accustomed to. Your value proposition must attract, not push. It must be short and it must be often. Bypass any awkward or ineffective stabs at social media and use Promise Productions to go direct to the most effecitve methods and strategies.
CONCLUSION
If there is a mismatch in the way you present your benefits or neglect to communicate them because they are choked by your features, even though you may have something great to offer that could make your company a fortune, your prosect will not "get it" (shutting down that enthusiasticly open wallet). If your Value Proposition is blurry, your business will be passed by.
Lastly, if you are not leveraging social media, you are missing an enormous opportunity to engage with your best prospects in the media they prefer and trust.
Each marketplace and business is unique. So at Promise Productions Marketing Communications, our strategies are custom applied to bring your business both short-term and long-term properity. Call 214-703-0360.
Showing posts with label Ad Agency. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ad Agency. Show all posts
Jun 15, 2009
In Dallas Marketing & Advertising, STRATEGY is King
Success does not come from luckily landing at the right place and time. No, strategy is needed to activly ensure you PUT your value proposition at the right place and time for optimum results.
Strategy is King. You see, it is not the economy or the environment that has the final say, it is your business strategy. Sowing the right seeds now is crucial to reaping the right harvest in today's marketplace.
Sadly, many companies are either (a) afraid to sow seeds, or (b) sowing old seeds, hoping somehow that that will bring in a new kind of harvest – when reality is that the fields have changed. Fresh strategy that is "adapted to the now" is, many times, the single determining factor between those business that will succeed or fail in the next 3 months.
Some species thrive in the desert whereas others die quickly. Some businesses are thriving like crazy in the identical economic conditions that have made others go bankrupt. Why do some thrive? Because their strategy is adapted for success today. If your business is ready for massive success; it will take the right strategy for massive success.
This is where our marketing savvy, combined with our video production and social media strategies are your best friend. We have many strategies that are being proven today to make profits thrive. There is no single solution for every business, but there is a strategy that is best for your's. Our ability to look at your marketplace and correct the mismatches in your advertising and marketing will make all the difference in both short-term and long-term profits.
Our Services For Your Success
• marketing communications
• integrating your messaging
• applying Social Media
• amplifying your message through video
• search engine visibility
• better prospect targeting
• how to do more with less
Rest assured, we have strategies both for the short-term and long-term. Let us show you how easy it is to change -- to implement the vital changes that make all the difference. Call our Dallas Marketing Advertising department at 214-703-0360.
Strategy is King. You see, it is not the economy or the environment that has the final say, it is your business strategy. Sowing the right seeds now is crucial to reaping the right harvest in today's marketplace.Sadly, many companies are either (a) afraid to sow seeds, or (b) sowing old seeds, hoping somehow that that will bring in a new kind of harvest – when reality is that the fields have changed. Fresh strategy that is "adapted to the now" is, many times, the single determining factor between those business that will succeed or fail in the next 3 months.
Some species thrive in the desert whereas others die quickly. Some businesses are thriving like crazy in the identical economic conditions that have made others go bankrupt. Why do some thrive? Because their strategy is adapted for success today. If your business is ready for massive success; it will take the right strategy for massive success.This is where our marketing savvy, combined with our video production and social media strategies are your best friend. We have many strategies that are being proven today to make profits thrive. There is no single solution for every business, but there is a strategy that is best for your's. Our ability to look at your marketplace and correct the mismatches in your advertising and marketing will make all the difference in both short-term and long-term profits.
Our Services For Your Success
• marketing communications
• integrating your messaging
• applying Social Media
• amplifying your message through video
• search engine visibility
• better prospect targeting
• how to do more with less
Rest assured, we have strategies both for the short-term and long-term. Let us show you how easy it is to change -- to implement the vital changes that make all the difference. Call our Dallas Marketing Advertising department at 214-703-0360.
Jun 5, 2009
Avoiding Marketing Communications Disasters
With all the current headlines of GM's bankruptcy, it reminds me of the marketing communications disaster when Chevy introduced the "Nova" and then wondered why it tanked in the Hispanic market. The reason for the flop is not in the design, production, capabilities or pricepoint of the car; it is in bad marketing communications.You see, "No va" means "Doesn't Go" in Spanish. Who wants a car that doesn't even go? No one. How many millions did that oversight cost the auto industry?
My business friend, although you mean well, don't be your own worst enemy by unprofessional corporate messaging. Often these kinds of disasters come from trying to say something that is clear in your mind and simply doing an awful job of translating it into a message that your audience can appreciate or even understand. Worse, the mistake is not realized until it is too late.
This presents a great example of why getting an outside professional marketing communications perspective on your advertising is not just a good idea, but a necessity in times where you don't have the budget to dig your way out of a marketing disaster.
But frequently companies fail to get that outside expert opinion for a number of different reasons. Here's the shoddy thinking that, while intended to benefit the company, actually sets it up for innefective marketing or even a bankrupsy:
1 • "Our company can't afford the time/money to get a real professional to look at it."
I don't know how much your time and effort is worth, but few companies have the surplus funds it costs to keep missing the ball. Your advertising dollars can be wasted on inefficient marketing without the company's leadership even knowing it. Like trying to saw down a tree with an old, rusty saw -- the time and expense to get the ideal saw is minute compared to the benefits your receive. Likewise, it is the ideal marketing STRATEGY that makes your marketing communication go further and produce more.
2 • "Our company does not need an outside firm to review our work."
Sadly, we see this attitude from time-to-time and it's such a destructive approach. Smart communicators realize that they come from a certain perspective, experience and bias and as a result, know that it's critical to make sure that when they speak or write that what they communicate can resonate with the target audience. It's not an admission of weakness; in fact, it's an act of wisdom to accept that you're not all-knowing.
After all, you are not marketing to yourself; you are marketing to them. So doesn't it make just to ensure that you are effectively reaching them with all your promotions?
3 • "We just didn't think of it that way."
This is the most common reason a well-indended marketing campaign turns into a waste of time and dollars. But why not enjoy the benefit of "hindsight" ahead of time through outsourcing your marketing strategy to a firm like Covenant Designs?
Today, you and I are in the happy circumstance of having the opportunity to benefit from someone else's painful experience. At Promise Productions, we specialize in creating ideal marketing campaigns for optimum results.That means effectively targeting and communicating with your prospects. It means motivating them into your desired action. Come, see the difference professional marketing in any advertising media can make for your company's profits. Call 972-822-3587.
Apr 15, 2009
10 Deadly Sins That Are Killing Your Direct Mail Profits
Direct mail is still a great way to generate positive cash flow for all kinds of businesses. It puts your message right into their hands. But is it the right message?
Direct mail must avoid these 10 pitfalls in order to produce significant profits. A smart direct mail marketing communications strategy will produce loyal customers who are ready to buy your products and services. At Covenant Designs, we have been doing direct mail and postcard campaigns for 17 years and typically product 3-6% response rates with some responses even higher than 10%.
As we have all experienced, lots of sales letters are regarded as junk mail these days. When was the last time you opened a sales letter in the mail and actually read it? Why not? Because the letter did not entice you, didn't speak to you – didn't give you a reason to care.
Remedying these 10 deadly sins will release thousands and thousands of dollars that are otherwise missing from your direct mail and marketing campaigns.
#1. Vague Targeting
Your letter doesn't speak to anybody in particular. Have you identified your ideal customer and made sure your mailing list targets them? Companies fail to get to know their market, and it undermines, not just their sales letters, but their marketing as a whole.
Take some time to study your target audience - what makes them tick? What problems do they face? What are their values? What motivates them? Only then can you send a sales letter that speaks directly to their wants and desires.
#2. Missing or Poor headline.
Sales letters need to attract the eye – to grab you. Without a headline, a sales letter is just a chunk of words that can easily be ignored. Just look at the headline of this post: it speaks directly to YOU, doesn't it? It speaks in the present tense, and it implies that there is information in this article that you need to read now (true). That's a big reason why you are reading this, isn't it? So do the same – motivate your readers to keep reading!
#3. Failed to Focus on BENEFITS and are bogged down in Features
If you do not understand the distinction between benefits and features in marketing, then you will experience frustration and struggle in your marketing. This is the biggest, most common mistake that companies make in their sales letters.
If you get a letter that says, "Hey! Look at what we've got! Look what we've done! Aren't we great?!?", you're going to throw it away in a heartbeat, right? What do people want to hear about? Themselves. It's simple human nature – our focus is on our present needs.
Instead, your direct mail needs to talk about them: "Hey! You know that problem you have? This is how we can help you out..." If you are writing about your business, you are writing a FEATURE. That's not what you're supposed to be writing. If you are writing about the consumer, you are writing a BENEFIT. That's what people want to hear about - what's in it for me?
#4. Failure To Motivate A Response
If your response rates are down, you may not be giving your market enough of a reason to contact you. Where's the offer? Give them a discount or some form of special offer for responding to the letter. If the consumer reads your entire sales letter, but they are not motivated to take action IMMEDIATELY, you did it wrong. (Tip: pinpointing the exact benefits that matter most to your prospects is essential to motivating a response)
#5. Assuming they'll simply take your word for it.
Face it, you need proof. That means statistics that show it works. That means testimonials from people who have enjoyed the benefits. People won't just listen to you based on what you say - show them what others are saying.
#6. Unattractive Design.
How is your communication formed? Is it just a mass of words? Then forget it. You may as well have mailed them a letter in Chinese. At least put in some sub-headlines or lists. Photos are even better! They need something they can easily scan to get the gist of the letter beforehand. It will encourage them to read, to understand the benefits, and to respond.
#7. You didn't Break Down the Barriers.
This is a biggie. Barriers are things that keep prospects from doing business with you. Usually RISK is their barrier – they worry that they are investing their time or money in something that won't work. You need to guarantee them that it will be worth it. Offer them a 30-day, money-back guarantee. Give them a reason to take the plunge, risk-free, and there's a good chance they will.
#8. You don't have a "P.S." at the end.
The "P.S." is a great way to hit the last few skimmers - people who aren't reading. Sum up your biggest benefit, combine it with your offer, and throw it in as the last line in your letter. Then watch those response rates soar!
For example: "P.S. Stop wasting your time resharpening old kitchen knives! Order your complete set of Mighty Sharpy Steak Knives and use them for 60 days at no cost!"
#9. Nothing makes you stand out.
Who are you targeting and why? You need to position yourself as something unique. Differentiate yourself from the competition. What's your advantage? If you are just like the others, why should anyone choose to do business with you?
#10. They're not even opening the envelope.
If your letter comes in a plain white envelope, you're going to lose. One way around this is to use oversides postcards with color printing on both sides. We've had great success with these.
But for letters in an envelope, print your strong headline on the outside of the envelope. Consider hand-addressed envelopes. Make it distinctive in color, size or shape. Or, as many companies do, take advantage of the "lumpy mailer", where you put something in the envelope that makes it feel bulky - so people will tear it open – intrigued just to find their free gift. Your visual presentation needs to stand out from the rest of the mail. How is your sales letter standing out?
Direct mail must avoid these 10 pitfalls in order to produce significant profits. A smart direct mail marketing communications strategy will produce loyal customers who are ready to buy your products and services. At Covenant Designs, we have been doing direct mail and postcard campaigns for 17 years and typically product 3-6% response rates with some responses even higher than 10%.
As we have all experienced, lots of sales letters are regarded as junk mail these days. When was the last time you opened a sales letter in the mail and actually read it? Why not? Because the letter did not entice you, didn't speak to you – didn't give you a reason to care.
Remedying these 10 deadly sins will release thousands and thousands of dollars that are otherwise missing from your direct mail and marketing campaigns.
#1. Vague Targeting
Your letter doesn't speak to anybody in particular. Have you identified your ideal customer and made sure your mailing list targets them? Companies fail to get to know their market, and it undermines, not just their sales letters, but their marketing as a whole.
Take some time to study your target audience - what makes them tick? What problems do they face? What are their values? What motivates them? Only then can you send a sales letter that speaks directly to their wants and desires.
#2. Missing or Poor headline.
Sales letters need to attract the eye – to grab you. Without a headline, a sales letter is just a chunk of words that can easily be ignored. Just look at the headline of this post: it speaks directly to YOU, doesn't it? It speaks in the present tense, and it implies that there is information in this article that you need to read now (true). That's a big reason why you are reading this, isn't it? So do the same – motivate your readers to keep reading!
#3. Failed to Focus on BENEFITS and are bogged down in Features
If you do not understand the distinction between benefits and features in marketing, then you will experience frustration and struggle in your marketing. This is the biggest, most common mistake that companies make in their sales letters.
If you get a letter that says, "Hey! Look at what we've got! Look what we've done! Aren't we great?!?", you're going to throw it away in a heartbeat, right? What do people want to hear about? Themselves. It's simple human nature – our focus is on our present needs.
Instead, your direct mail needs to talk about them: "Hey! You know that problem you have? This is how we can help you out..." If you are writing about your business, you are writing a FEATURE. That's not what you're supposed to be writing. If you are writing about the consumer, you are writing a BENEFIT. That's what people want to hear about - what's in it for me?
#4. Failure To Motivate A Response
If your response rates are down, you may not be giving your market enough of a reason to contact you. Where's the offer? Give them a discount or some form of special offer for responding to the letter. If the consumer reads your entire sales letter, but they are not motivated to take action IMMEDIATELY, you did it wrong. (Tip: pinpointing the exact benefits that matter most to your prospects is essential to motivating a response)
#5. Assuming they'll simply take your word for it.
Face it, you need proof. That means statistics that show it works. That means testimonials from people who have enjoyed the benefits. People won't just listen to you based on what you say - show them what others are saying.
#6. Unattractive Design.
How is your communication formed? Is it just a mass of words? Then forget it. You may as well have mailed them a letter in Chinese. At least put in some sub-headlines or lists. Photos are even better! They need something they can easily scan to get the gist of the letter beforehand. It will encourage them to read, to understand the benefits, and to respond.
#7. You didn't Break Down the Barriers.
This is a biggie. Barriers are things that keep prospects from doing business with you. Usually RISK is their barrier – they worry that they are investing their time or money in something that won't work. You need to guarantee them that it will be worth it. Offer them a 30-day, money-back guarantee. Give them a reason to take the plunge, risk-free, and there's a good chance they will.
#8. You don't have a "P.S." at the end.
The "P.S." is a great way to hit the last few skimmers - people who aren't reading. Sum up your biggest benefit, combine it with your offer, and throw it in as the last line in your letter. Then watch those response rates soar!
For example: "P.S. Stop wasting your time resharpening old kitchen knives! Order your complete set of Mighty Sharpy Steak Knives and use them for 60 days at no cost!"
#9. Nothing makes you stand out.
Who are you targeting and why? You need to position yourself as something unique. Differentiate yourself from the competition. What's your advantage? If you are just like the others, why should anyone choose to do business with you?
#10. They're not even opening the envelope.
If your letter comes in a plain white envelope, you're going to lose. One way around this is to use oversides postcards with color printing on both sides. We've had great success with these.
But for letters in an envelope, print your strong headline on the outside of the envelope. Consider hand-addressed envelopes. Make it distinctive in color, size or shape. Or, as many companies do, take advantage of the "lumpy mailer", where you put something in the envelope that makes it feel bulky - so people will tear it open – intrigued just to find their free gift. Your visual presentation needs to stand out from the rest of the mail. How is your sales letter standing out?
P.S. For professional results from your direct mail or postcard campaign let the experienced marketing communication experts at Promise Productions position you for massive success. Call 972-822-3587
Mar 21, 2009
Best 2009 Business Advice
Words To Conduct Good Business By:
1. Make business development a priority. Good businesses who market better, DO better financially than great businesses who market poorly.
2. Develop a true and compelling marketing message that attracts prospects to come to you. Put that message online and marry it with compelling visuals.
3. Focus your marketing on a target market. Within that market, focus on your ideal prospects.
4. Get visible in low-cost-high-impact ways, preferably by educating your marketplace about the problems they face and how to solve them. Show them answers to the questions they did not even know they should have been asking. Include Social Media Marketing in this equation. And for best results, use Online Video to do that interaction.
5. Think big. Act big. Market big. We have only one life to live, so don’t waste it on small thinking. Don't shrink back and go extinct in a tar pit of regret; push forward with passionate business that is the overlap between your skills and gifts and the need out there.
6. Do what you love and always always always do your best for your customers. Value what you do and work with those businesses and customers that value the service you provide.
2. Develop a true and compelling marketing message that attracts prospects to come to you. Put that message online and marry it with compelling visuals.
3. Focus your marketing on a target market. Within that market, focus on your ideal prospects.
4. Get visible in low-cost-high-impact ways, preferably by educating your marketplace about the problems they face and how to solve them. Show them answers to the questions they did not even know they should have been asking. Include Social Media Marketing in this equation. And for best results, use Online Video to do that interaction.
5. Think big. Act big. Market big. We have only one life to live, so don’t waste it on small thinking. Don't shrink back and go extinct in a tar pit of regret; push forward with passionate business that is the overlap between your skills and gifts and the need out there.
6. Do what you love and always always always do your best for your customers. Value what you do and work with those businesses and customers that value the service you provide.
If you feel at home with this advice, then consider that we are the Marketing Communications firm for you. Call Promise Productions at 972-822-3587.
Mar 14, 2009
Trust Based Marketing For Profits Today - Part 3 of 3
Six Steps To Generate Trust & Credibility in Your Target Market
Okay, enough theory. Let’s get down to the nuts and bolts of building trust. There are six steps to follow if you want to develop a trust-based marketing strategy:
1. Select a target market. It is much easier to build trust in a specific, target market. By focusing on a target market, you can demonstrate your understanding of your prospects’ needs, and tailor your solution in ways that resonate with your prospects. People are more likely to trust business professionals who speak their language, understand their issues, and have developed comprehensive solutions for their industry.
2. Develop educational products that prospects in your target market will appreciate. Most Web designers and other IT professionals want to show prospects how talented they are. That is necessary when you get into a competitive bidding situation, because you have come late to the game.
However, with trust-based marketing you establish your credibility and reputation before your prospects even have a need. The way to do this is by providing free information. Articles, speeches, newsletters, press releases, white papers, seminars, audio CDs, and simple surveys of your target market are examples of valuable information that prospects appreciate.
Your informational products should address specific problems that your target market faces. Sample titles might include: “The 10 Dirty Secrets About Web Design that Other Web Designers Don’t Want You To Know;” “Five Mistakes That Most Realtors [or your specific target market] Make with Their Web Presence;” and “How to Double Traffic To Your Web Site for Under $100.” You should be able to come up with dozens of truthful, interesting, attention-grabbing topics to present to people in your target market-- and many formats in which to present your content.
3. Build a list of prospects. Your list of prospects could become the most valuable asset you have in your Web design business. Once you have a list of prospects in your target market, you can continuously follow up with them in ways that establish trust and credibility. Capture prospect information by offering a free newsletter on your Website, any time you speak, and every time you offer informational products. Ask your network to let people know about the free information you offer (which is much easier than asking for referrals).
If you have a budget, you might also invest in advertising and direct mail to build your list. Use these techniques not to promote your services, but to offer a free report or subscription to your newsletter. Opt-in list building services, Google, and Yahoo search marketing can help build your list, too. All of these paid services are less effective than free strategies, but will allow you to build your list more quickly.
Note that staying focused on a target market makes it easier to build your list. For instance, if you focus on developing a Web presence for lawyers, you can easily obtain lists of lawyers, write articles for publications targeted at lawyers, and speak at conventions that lawyers attend. You can also develop information that lawyers specifically need, for instance, by comparing legal Websites to one another.
4. Follow up with prospects. Once you’ve chosen a target market, built a list, and created a few educational products, you can follow up with prospects on your list in ways that build trust.
Your newsletter or business blog is the best way to follow up with prospects. Every time you send it out, you remind your prospects that you are an expert in your field, not by telling them, but by showing them with expert insight and information. And, with each issue, you can promote additional opportunities through which your prospects can gain education and information from you, such as speeches, seminars, roundtables, eBooks, white papers, and articles on your Website and Business Blog.
Similarly, each time you follow up with prospects through other vehicles, you should offer other ways for them to get yet more information from you. For instance, if you speak in public, offer your prospects a free white paper that will interest them, and fits your expertise.
The more you follow up in valuable ways, without coming across as a salesperson, the more trust you’ll build.
5. Develop proactive referral systems that bring more prospects to you. Referrals are fantastic, because they bring you prospects that already trust you, based on the recommendation of somebody they respect. Unfortunately, many Web designers assume that referrals come automatically from satisfied clients. They don’t.
You have to ask for referrals from clients, and ask specific questions about people they know who might have a need for your services (e.g. “You told me that you’re on the board of the Chamber of Commerce. Do any of the other board members need help with their Web presences?”). You should also build referral networks with complementary professionals, for instance, by creating your own “mastermind groups” of professionals that meet on a weekly basis to help each other grow their business.
6. Be patient. Remember that it takes at least five favorable impressions with a prospect before he or she trusts you enough to contact you. Don’t destroy the trust you are developing by suddenly pitching your services, offering a free consultation (which prospects automatically translate to mean “sales pitch”), or asking for an appointment. If you offer enough valuable information to a focused market, soon people will begin calling you.
If you do want to contact prospects on your list, there are two effective ways to do it. The first is to follow up with a call after they take advantage of one of your information products or programs. Ask them for their advice and feedback, and offer to answer any questions they have. Don’t sell them anything; if they have a need, they will let you know. Then, send them a handwritten note thanking them for their time.
Second, create a research study or survey, and contact prospects to participate. Offer them a free copy of the study after you are done. Topics might include: “Top ten concerns [your target market] has about their Web presence;” “Benchmarking: How much your competitors are spending on their Web presence;” and “Web results: Top traffic drivers for [your target market].” Research studies show your prospects that you are an expert, and give them a great opportunity to share their issues and concerns with you.
If you follow these steps consistently, within six months to a year, you’ll have a huge database of prospects. They will call you first when they have a problem that you can solve. Best of all, you can achieve these results without a large investment of money.
~~~ OK, the following is the bonus section of this article! ~~~
Why Most Web Designers Will Avoid This Advice -- And Why That Is Great For YouMost Web designers will not act on this approach to business development. There are a few reasons why. First, many Web designers come from the “If I build it, they will come” school of marketing. They know they are talented, and believe that eventually people will learn about their capabilities. Unfortunately, this strategy only works in baseball movies directed by Kevin Costner! Average Web designers with superior marketing skills will almost always do better financially than brilliant Web designers who don’t make marketing a top priority.
Second, trust-based marketing strategies are somewhat unusual. It requires GIVING, believing that you will receive back in time. That is, it requires faith to make the up front investment of time and energy (and some money) to establish trust and credibility within a focused market. Most Web designers rely on traditional marketing approaches that push their services, and old habits are hard to break. They think too short term. Others try these approaches for a while and then give up, or don’t commit fully to implementing these strategies as a top priority.
Finally, many Web designers lack the patience and discipline it takes to focus on a target market and become a recognized expert in that market. They want business, and they want it fast. So they go to bidding sites, and battle dozens of other competitors from around the world to get jobs. If they would only invest a few months of effort to build trust and credibility, they would have all the clients they can handle for the long haul.
But all these reasons are good news for Web designers who do choose to base their marketing strategies on building trust. You can get the most desirable clients in your target market, while your competitors continue to slog it out. They will have to compete on price, submit competitive bids, and deal with prospects that don’t trust them enough to give them straight answers. You won’t.
I hope you make the right choice! We invite you to choose Promise Productions for your marketing communication needs. Let us cause your business to thrive in any conditions through integrated and strategic messages (and compelling visuals) that reach your ideal prospects with the understanding and solutions they long for!We're ready to learn about your goals. Feel free to call us today at 972-822-3587.
Mar 13, 2009
Trust Based Marketing For Profits Today - Part 2 of 3
Trust-Based Marketing and Its BenefitsTrust-based marketing builds trust with a somewhat unusual strategy. A key part of this strategy involves providing valuable education and information to your prospects up front, so that they perceive you as an expert. You don’t sell to them, or make pitches. Instead, you show you understand them.
That is, you provide insights about their problems, what those problems cost, and how they can solve them -- all within the area of your expertise. Once those prospects realize that you can help them, the more likely they are to call you as soon as they have a need.
"You have now moved from being a pushy nuisance to a valued service."
Marketing based on the development of trust creates entirely new opportunities for getting your prospects’ attention and interest. Once you learn how to build trust, you can stop those overused selling techniques, and everything will change for you:
* Prospects call you first when they have a problem. You can stop chasing them.
* You win more business sole source, before the prospect sends it out for bid. That’s because prospects perceive you to be an expert, and call you when they have a need.
* Your entire marketing program has a single point of focus: develop trust. Therefore, you can measure your marketing investment based on how well you achieve this goal, and continuously improve.
* Many of the tactics you use to build trust happen automatically, allowing you to spend time on other things.
* You can charge higher fees, and stop competing on price.
* You can stop selling, and start having open and honest conversations with your prospects.
* People refer business to you even if they have never hired you, because they perceive you to be an expert and appreciate your valuable information and knowledge.
* You feel good about marketing your services beuacse you are truly providing value.
The Principles of Trust-Based Marketing
If you want to market your Web services on the basis of trust, it’s important to incorporate a few fundamental principles into everything you do. The following seven principles underpin the development of trust:
1. The more value you provide, the more trust you build. Most marketing and sales efforts focus on pushing your services and capabilities. This doesn’t build trust; in fact, it turns the prospect off. Who wants to waste time reading or listening to “just another pitch”? Instead, you can build trust by providing value. In trust-based marketing, value takes the form of free, or low-cost, educational products and services -- articles, speeches, newsletters, audio CDs, etc. Each of these products helps your prospects to understand their critical problems (within your range of expertise), and start to develop solutions.
2. Trust increases gradually. This is business, but it is also a relationship. For example, it takes five or more interactions with a prospect before they trust an IT professional enough to even consider hiring that person. Building trust is like taking a series of baby steps. It happens over time, as you provide a series of high-value interactions that benefit the prospect.
3. Trust is based on “pull,” not “push.” You build trust when you give prospects the opportunity to choose whether or not to take advantage of the information and insights you can offer. Instead of pushing your services onto them, let your prospects choose to take advantage of your valuable expertise. That way, you will have plenty of prospects who have given you permission to stay in touch with them (in ways that are valuable for them). When they have a problem, they’ll contact you first, because they know you and perceive you to be an expert. Often, they will hire you without sending their project out for bid, and you can charge higher fees.
4. Trust is fragile. Prospects are naturally and understandably wary. If you move too quickly, or push too hard to close a deal, you will turn your prospects off.
5. Some interactions build more trust than others -- and most cost almost nothing. Your newsletter, public speaking, articles, and testimonials can all build an enormous amount of trust. None of these cost much to implement. Newsletters and articles establish your expertise, and provide value to your prospects. Public speaking lets prospects see you in person, and makes them feel as if they know you. Testimonials provide “social proof” that others perceive you to be an expert.6. Authenticity and empathy build trust. Who here does not like feeling understood? By being open and honest with your prospects, and empathizing with their problems, you build trust. Prospects want to work with professionals who can step in their shoes and who understand the results they are trying to achieve. They also appreciate people who can serve as their trusted adviser, giving open and honest advice about how to move forward.
7. The economics of trust are incredibly powerful. It doesn’t take long to develop a group of prospects that know you and perceive you to be an expert in your field. Once you do, they will refer you to other people -- even if they don’t hire you. Within six months to a year, you can establish yourself as a recognized expert and thought leader in your market. You will have all the clients you want.
Our 3rd and final post will reveal 6 Steps To Generating Trust.
Got trust? Call Covenant Designs at 972-822-3587 for trust-savvy approaches both in print communications, professional web site design, and social medial strategies.
Mar 12, 2009
Trust Based Marketing For Profits Today - Part 1 of 3
Introduction
Trust-Based Marketing is the way to get all the clients and profits you could ever want in today's economy.
Businesses, like people, do not want to risk when their fears are stimulated and the only way to open their wallets is through trust.
Trust-Based Marketing overcomes the distrust factor of overly-slick marketing and is, instead, based on establishing your credibility in the marketplace. Trust-based marketing requires an initial investment of time and energy up front, but but reaps a RICH HARVEST enabling your business to land all the clients and projects you want within six months to a year. Best of all, trust-based marketing doesn’t cost a lot to implement.
The Fundamental Problem with Traditional Marketing
Traditional approaches to marketing suffer from a fundamental flaw: they PUSH your services and products at the prospect. As a result, prospects are easily turned off. Face it, they’re sick and tired of receiving hundreds of marketing pitches every day.
Whether you design a business Website that describes your services, use the sales gimmicks that most sales training courses teach, or depend on Pay Per Click to get noticed, you will face the following problems if you pursue traditional marketing strategies:
1. Prospects avoid you, because they don’t want to deal with yet another vendor or salesperson.
2. Prospects don’t always give you straight answers about moving forward.
3. You end up competing on price alone, instead of getting sole source deals. Your value goes down in the customer's eyes and your service gravitates towards being a commodity!
4. You spend more and more money on advertising campaigns that produce less and less results.
5. You feel frustrated, because you have to go through the indignity of pitching your services and skills only to receive rejection when you are sure that you offer a terrific solution.
Trust-Based Marketing Gets Inside the Prospect’s Head
There is another way than pushing yourself at customers. It has to do with attracting new business instead. Before we unveil it, consider what your prospects are probably thinking when they realize they need to invest in a new Initative, Image or Web Site. I will use Information Technology market (IT) as an example. When you get inside the prospect's head, here is what is typically going on:
1. I don’t want to hire an IT professional, but I have to. This makes me feel ignorant and vulnerable, because I need help and can’t solve my own problem.
2. I have no way of knowing if the person I hire is really the right person for the job.
3. I hear many stories about people being burned when they hire IT professionals.
4. Why can’t IT consultants speak a language I can understand?
5. I don’t care about technology. I just want to get business results. Technology is the means, not the end, and I wish these people would understand this fact.
6. This is going to be expensive, and I worry about not getting enough return for my investment.
The Root Issue IS TRUST
Underlying each of these thoughts is a common message. When it all boils down, your prospects are really saying, “I want to hire somebody I can trust who will give me results I can trust.” Therefore, developing trust becomes the key to attracting new business deals.
You have established trust when you meet four criteria:
1. Your prospect is familiar with you and with what you do.
2. Your prospect perceives you to be an expert in your field.
3. Your prospect believes that you understand his or her specific issues, and can solve them.
4. Your prospect likes you enough to want to work with you.
Trust-Based Marketing is the way to get all the clients and profits you could ever want in today's economy.
"You see, what is lacking today is not so much cash flow but rather credibility."
Businesses, like people, do not want to risk when their fears are stimulated and the only way to open their wallets is through trust.
This 3-Part article on trust based marketing is adapted from the writings of Andrew Neitlich.
Trust-Based Marketing overcomes the distrust factor of overly-slick marketing and is, instead, based on establishing your credibility in the marketplace. Trust-based marketing requires an initial investment of time and energy up front, but but reaps a RICH HARVEST enabling your business to land all the clients and projects you want within six months to a year. Best of all, trust-based marketing doesn’t cost a lot to implement.The Fundamental Problem with Traditional Marketing
Traditional approaches to marketing suffer from a fundamental flaw: they PUSH your services and products at the prospect. As a result, prospects are easily turned off. Face it, they’re sick and tired of receiving hundreds of marketing pitches every day.
Whether you design a business Website that describes your services, use the sales gimmicks that most sales training courses teach, or depend on Pay Per Click to get noticed, you will face the following problems if you pursue traditional marketing strategies:
1. Prospects avoid you, because they don’t want to deal with yet another vendor or salesperson.
2. Prospects don’t always give you straight answers about moving forward.
3. You end up competing on price alone, instead of getting sole source deals. Your value goes down in the customer's eyes and your service gravitates towards being a commodity!
4. You spend more and more money on advertising campaigns that produce less and less results.
5. You feel frustrated, because you have to go through the indignity of pitching your services and skills only to receive rejection when you are sure that you offer a terrific solution.
Trust-Based Marketing Gets Inside the Prospect’s Head
There is another way than pushing yourself at customers. It has to do with attracting new business instead. Before we unveil it, consider what your prospects are probably thinking when they realize they need to invest in a new Initative, Image or Web Site. I will use Information Technology market (IT) as an example. When you get inside the prospect's head, here is what is typically going on:
1. I don’t want to hire an IT professional, but I have to. This makes me feel ignorant and vulnerable, because I need help and can’t solve my own problem.
2. I have no way of knowing if the person I hire is really the right person for the job.
3. I hear many stories about people being burned when they hire IT professionals.
4. Why can’t IT consultants speak a language I can understand?
5. I don’t care about technology. I just want to get business results. Technology is the means, not the end, and I wish these people would understand this fact.
6. This is going to be expensive, and I worry about not getting enough return for my investment.
The Root Issue IS TRUST
Underlying each of these thoughts is a common message. When it all boils down, your prospects are really saying, “I want to hire somebody I can trust who will give me results I can trust.” Therefore, developing trust becomes the key to attracting new business deals.
You have established trust when you meet four criteria:
1. Your prospect is familiar with you and with what you do.
2. Your prospect perceives you to be an expert in your field.
3. Your prospect believes that you understand his or her specific issues, and can solve them.
4. Your prospect likes you enough to want to work with you.
Our next post will cover the enormous benefits of trust-based marketing.
Got trust? Call Promise Productions at 972-822-3587 for trust-savvy approaches both in print communications, professional web site design, and social medial strategies.
Got trust? Call Promise Productions at 972-822-3587 for trust-savvy approaches both in print communications, professional web site design, and social medial strategies.Feb 7, 2009
Strategic Blogging & Social Media for Business Profits
Social Media is all the buzz today because nearly everyone online today uses it in some form or other. It is growing and developing rapidly and the excitement is warranted. Did you ever wonder if you could harness this giant wave to some degree to benefit your business? This blog post is about just that!Social Media Grows Up
To start with, blogging and social media was not originally created as a means to advertising. (but it can be used for that purpose.... keep reading) Social Media originated as a place where the average Joe could share what he was passionate about and inasmuch as that included a product, service or company, he gave his personal "thumbs up" as it were.
The enormous mass of individuals now doing this daily, has given rise to serious attention by Web Site Developers, Search Engine Marketers, Search Engine Optimization and Social Media Optimizers.In fact, more progressive Marketing Communication firms such as Covenant Designs, now include Social Media and Strategic Blogging in their skillsets.
In short, Social Media means that word-of-mouth has firmly moved online. Individuals now consult the "community wisdom" of other people who have already experienced a product, company or service before they commit to action. Studies prove again and again that the opinions and messages on the Internet are the decisive determining factor over friends, coworkers and traditional authority figures. The idea is that this is a pool of unbiased individuals, and that many people "can't be wrong."
Although unassuming in concept, Social Media does something tremendous and priceless -- it bridges the TRUST GAP, thereby paving the way for prospects to sample YOUR product or service.(for more about successfully bridging the confidence gap in your marketing, click here)
Businesses have an increasingly vested interest in promoting themselves in a cost-effective manner in this lean economy. Businesses should all be very aware and very concerned about managing their image -- their PR on the web.
You see, your official company web site is a formal presentation of your company. Your company blog, on the other hand, is where you get down on your customer's level to interact, share, and listen to THEM. Customers like that and will reward you with business for being EXTRA responsive to their needs. And we all know that no business will survive long without serving their customers where THEY live.
This does not mean that any old blog will do. It all revolves around smart strategy to setup, produce content and distribute your blog around cyberspace. That is where Promise Productions Strategic Blogging Services come in.
Social Media Strategy Tip:
Social Media can cut both ways -- customers can complain or endorse you -- fairly or unfairly, and now their opinion has a forum and a life of its own that spreads its influence. Just think, a rant on RipOffReport will hang around for 10 years even if you ended up making that customer happy later on.
It has become danerously easy for an individual to sling mud at your company for any reason and you not to even know it is hurting your sales! Obviously it pays more than ever to provide great customer service.
What a smart business does is implement a social media strategy for all kinds of GOOD PR to be spread around the Internet, and have that overwhelm any NEGATIVE PR that threatens to soil your company's image.We market your business to make our best prospects like doing business with you and give you their thumbs up! Want to know more? Contact Promise Productions at 972-822-3587.
Feb 6, 2009
Marketing's 3 Year Rule
As a rule of thumb, each year a typical business looses 1/3 of its clients. Change happens, regardless of your level of service or customer support.
As a result, if you are not replacing OVER 1/3 of your clients each year, within 3 years you will completely be out of business. A daunting task you say?
Yes it is nearly impossible, IF you are still relying on 20th century marketing and advertising methods in a 21st century world.
Promise Productions was formed to cause your ideal growth and profitability. Our visual marketing communications geniuses practically live to craft your image to appeal to your best prospects, while also giving you the right visibility at the right time to attract the most profitable jobs your way.
How Do We Get Such Great Results?
We are Marketing 2.0 savvy. It is an Internet world, a video world and a social media world. These days even word-of-mouth has been eclipsed by the Internet's ability to connect customers to products and services. Over 90% of your prospects are ONLY looking online to find you -- even if you are a mere 1 mile down the road from them.
We position you for maximum success with:
1 • The Right Website that is both visually engaging, full of value and designed to get a positive response.
2 • Social Media and Strategic Blogging gives business a powerful edge today to leverage word of mouth and search engine popularity in the online arena.
3 • The Right Internet Visibility. That means marketing your web site, being found in the search engines and found with positive PR in this era of increasing scams and decreasing trust.
And Now For the "Secret Sauce": (drumroll...)
The big secret is that we apply marketing-savvy video in all 3 areas. Your customers want to be given an experience of your product or service -- its lifestyle and benefits. Nothing comes close to video's power to do just that. Video amplifies your results (when done right) by 50% to a whopping 200%!
Combine that with our tested design and visibility techniques and voila -- the recipe for sweet success in any market!
As a result, if you are not replacing OVER 1/3 of your clients each year, within 3 years you will completely be out of business. A daunting task you say?Yes it is nearly impossible, IF you are still relying on 20th century marketing and advertising methods in a 21st century world.
Promise Productions was formed to cause your ideal growth and profitability. Our visual marketing communications geniuses practically live to craft your image to appeal to your best prospects, while also giving you the right visibility at the right time to attract the most profitable jobs your way.
How Do We Get Such Great Results?
We are Marketing 2.0 savvy. It is an Internet world, a video world and a social media world. These days even word-of-mouth has been eclipsed by the Internet's ability to connect customers to products and services. Over 90% of your prospects are ONLY looking online to find you -- even if you are a mere 1 mile down the road from them.
We position you for maximum success with:
1 • The Right Website that is both visually engaging, full of value and designed to get a positive response.
2 • Social Media and Strategic Blogging gives business a powerful edge today to leverage word of mouth and search engine popularity in the online arena.
3 • The Right Internet Visibility. That means marketing your web site, being found in the search engines and found with positive PR in this era of increasing scams and decreasing trust.
And Now For the "Secret Sauce": (drumroll...)
The big secret is that we apply marketing-savvy video in all 3 areas. Your customers want to be given an experience of your product or service -- its lifestyle and benefits. Nothing comes close to video's power to do just that. Video amplifies your results (when done right) by 50% to a whopping 200%!Combine that with our tested design and visibility techniques and voila -- the recipe for sweet success in any market!
Contact Promise Productions Visual Marketing Communications at 972-822-3587 to secure your fair market share.
Jan 17, 2009
Dallas Marketing For Optimized Profits
In this economy, it's more important than ever to understand how to make certain that your creative and marketing efforts are fully on-target, and that every dollar invested brings a solid return on investment.
This is only possible with a smart marketing strategy. That requires knowing your customer's motivations and the ways that today's Marketing Opportunities -- including Video Production and Business Blogging -- are transforming the landscape of connecting prospects with companies.
In 2009 your company's' web site design and it's search engine optimization are just 2 of a handful of areas you need to be integrated in your overall Marketing Communications Plan.
In this time of rapid change, let Promise Productions Marketing Communications put the best of design and advertising to work for you using the latest Internet strategies. Call 972-822-3587 to join the ranks of companies who are now getting their fair market share! Get A Quote
This is only possible with a smart marketing strategy. That requires knowing your customer's motivations and the ways that today's Marketing Opportunities -- including Video Production and Business Blogging -- are transforming the landscape of connecting prospects with companies.
In 2009 your company's' web site design and it's search engine optimization are just 2 of a handful of areas you need to be integrated in your overall Marketing Communications Plan.
In this time of rapid change, let Promise Productions Marketing Communications put the best of design and advertising to work for you using the latest Internet strategies. Call 972-822-3587 to join the ranks of companies who are now getting their fair market share! Get A Quote
Jan 4, 2009
How to Choose the Dallas Marketing Firm that is Right for You
The Perfect Match for Optimum Continual Profits
Would you like a company of experts to dedicate itself to elevating your business? An effective Dallas marketing firm will integrate both your printed communications (ads, brochures, newsletters, etc.) with your electronic communications (web site, e-mailers, etc.) to drive sales and increase the interest and demand for your business.
Not every web site or marketing piece is effective however, and the difference often hinges on your choice of a marketing firm.
First, there is a key distinction: there are web designers and there are graphic designers. Covenant Designs excels at web design and graphic design, but we are more than that. We design for marketing success. As an integrated business communications marketing firm, Covenant Designs looks at the big picture of your company's marketing to attract your ideal client and grow your profits.
We can integrate all business communications so that they reinforce each other for maximum impact. We don't merely react to a cash flow crisis by slapping a design Band-Aid over it; we position you for consistent rapid growth today and tomorrow. Today, your web site is your front line to attract new customers and business. We encompass advertising, but not advertising for its own sake. We harness advertising with marketing to put your business right where you want it to be.
Said another way, we are not out to just provide catchy design. Nor are we out to merely patch your marketing with any old web site. We are out to cultivate all your communications to connect your business with ideal clients and optimum profits. We provide long-sighted strategic marketing that brings in new business quickly and steadily. Call it the fast track to success.
Whether you are considering your first web site, or preparing to revamp and re-launch of an existing site, here are:
Seven key questions to determine the right marketing firm firm.
1. Does the firm understand and clearly articulate the differences between print design and internet design? Sure, similarities do exist. But, while print is static, web graphics must work interactively on different browsers with disparate characteristics for display. Internet Explorer for instance, displays differently than AOL. Choose a marketing firm with proven success in interactive web designs as well as success in print.
2. Is the marketing firm experienced? Ask about other sites the designer has developed. Visit them all. Is the work visually appealing? Is it technologically interesting with the navigation features you're looking for? Is the navigation easy? Do the look and feel of the site convey high quality? Do the web sites create a unique visual identity for the business or organization? Are you treated to interesting, custom graphics or "stock" clips and photos? Is the functionality smooth? Covenant Designs has a 17-year track record of success. A well designed web site delivers a positive, enjoyable experience for visitors with graphics that load quickly and still look impressive, and navigation that presents the information in a logical, easy to access manner.
3. Does the marketing firm focus more on aesthetics or on solutions for your business goals? Keep in mind, a web site must drive sales, either through e-commerce or through stimulating the confidence and trust that makes the customer want to contact you.
Does the firm understand your goals and the key messages you want to communicate? Ask prospective designers to explain the objective for web sites they've designed. Explaining how each solution uniquely fits the client's needs will reveal important information about how that designer will approach your project. Be certain the designer has a firm grasp of your vision.
4. Does the marketing firm have a solid understanding of the principles of e-business? People rarely stroll through a commercial web site at a leisurely pace. They come, they scan for what they want, and leave. To be effective a site must be supremely efficient. Good, clear, intuitive navigation is crucial for a positive experience. Key messages must leap off the page. Text must be concise, crystal clear and compelling.
Every graphic must work to support the key messages. In short, nothing on a web site can be gratuitous. Everything must be strategically designed for a purpose. Our "web site stickiness" services provide this for you to turn web site visitors into customers.
5. Does the Dallas advertising firm provide personalized service? Access is important. Will the designer be available for follow-up? Support? Long-term maintenance? A good firm will offer you technical support and be on hand to correct any tech problems as needed and update the content as required.
6. Does the firm offer skills in communications and in technology as well as design? Designing a successful web site requires the ability to take complex or disparate bits of information and develop a clear and logical hierarchy that flows with smoothness and clarity. This requires a talent for communication and technology, as well as graphic design. Many designers have a proficiency in graphics, but lack the companion skills necessary to develop a web site that effectively supports the goals and objectives of business. Pages in a web site can be viewed in any order. To keep their attention and lead the potential customer down the persuasion path to convert into being an actual customer, the design of your site, must give your visitor an intuitive sense of where they are-and why. Only if messages flow through the site smoothly and efficiently, can you capture the customer and the sale.
7. Is there rapport between you and the firm? Do you feel they are out for a quick buck, or are they your advocates? Do they really care about your success? Chances are that the marketing communications firm you select will not only create your web site, but will also host it and help you market it, as well as update and maintain the content. Rapport is important. Look for designers and firms that feel comfortable and compatible. You'll be working closely together on planning and implementation, hosting and follow-up.
Conclusion: All your marketing should generate more of what you want -- more money from the right clients. Successful marketing is a wise investment that increases revenues and broadens your sphere of potential clients. Smart marketing will attract, not just traffic to your site, but your ideal customers and will cause them to want to give you their business. Professional marketing makes the business flow smoothly and efficiently. Select a Dallas marketing communications partner such as Covenant Designs that displays a proven track record for excellent graphic design, good technical and marketing communication skills, and a clear understanding of ROI.
Let us prove how valuable we can be to your business' bottom line.Call Promise Productions at 972-822-3587. Get A Quote
Jan 2, 2009
Top 10 Business Relationship Traits
In keeping with my last post about the quality of your Business Relationships determining the quality of your success in 2009, there could be no better way to launch the new business year than with a quick grounding in the Top 10 Traits of successful business relationships and business networking.
Networking is more than just shaking hands and passing out business cards. Remember, successful business rests on the foundation of successful relationships. What follows are the Top Traits to build and maintain good business relationships:
These relationships are forged in value and trust. Those who only fleece their customers like sheep without shepherding them, soon lose them.
1. Follow Up On Referrals. Every successful networker does this. Because personableness will make you stand out, online videos and phone calls are often more effective relationship-building tools than a voicemail or text or email. Those who do not follow up on communication lost the momentum of their first impression and your prospects will stop wasting their time trying to deal with you for greener pastures.
2. Positive Attitude. No one likes to be brought down. Negativity drives away referrals but a positive attitude makes people want to associate and cooperate with you. Positive business professionals are like magnets. Others want to be around them and will send their friends, family and associates to them. This is more than an inauthentic smile and chipper platitudes, a truly positive way of being comes from the inside out.
3. Enthusiasm / Motivation. This follows on the heels of the above success attitude. When you think about it, you can see that people who show the most motivation, close the most deals and get the most referrals. When you truly want to serve your customer, your customer gets excited about being served and wants to do business with you. Give what you want to get -- it's the timeless golden rule.
4. Trustworthy. When you refer one person to another, you’re putting your reputation on the line. You have to be able to trust your referral partner and be trusted in return. Neither you nor anyone else will refer a contact or valuable information to someone who can’t be trusted to handle it well. Likewise, when you commit to doing business, large or small, with someone, the other party has a large say in how it goes and you need trust to make the outcome a smooth success. Trust has to be repeatedly demonstrated. A business relationship is not a thing like a pencil you can leave sitting on a shelf for months and expect it to be right where you left it; it is a living organism that requires nurturance.
5. Good listening skills. Listening shows you care -- its that simple. Our success in business depends on how well we can listen and learn. The faster you and your customer learn what you need to know about each other, the faster you’ll establish a valuable relationship. Communicate well, and listen well.
6. Continuous improvement. Those at the top of their game, like Michael Jordan, are never too good to practice the basics. Always look for areas to improve and the customers you will want the most will appreciate where you go the extra mile for them.
7. Thanksgiving & Appreciation. Gratitude is sorely lacking in today’s business world. Expressing gratitude to business associates and clients is just another building block in the cultivation of relationships that will lead to increased referrals. People like to refer others to business professionals that go above and beyond. Thanking others at every opportunity will help you stand out from the crowd.
8. Enjoy helping. Desire the best for your customer in tangible ways. That is called "service." Helping others can be done in a variety of ways, from literally showing up to help with an office move to clipping a helpful and interesting article and mailing it to an associate or client. Those who have mastered good business relationship maintenance keep their eyes and ears open for opportunities to advance other people’s interests whenever they can.
9. Be Sincere. Insincerity is like sand in your salad. You can offer the help, the thanks, the listening ear, but if you aren’t sincerely interested in the other person, they’ll know it! Sincerity comes from the heart. Those who have developed successful networking skills convey their sincerity at every turn. One of the best ways to develop this trait is to give the individual with whom you’re developing a referral relationship your undivided attention. That leads to authentic appreciation.
10. Work your network. The word "work" is in network; master networkers don’t let any opportunity to work their networks pass them by. They manage their contacts with contact management software, organize their e-mail address files and carry their referral partners’ business cards as well as their own. Don't wait for the other party to follow up with you. Set up appointments to get better acquainted with new contacts so that they can learn as much about them as possible so that they can truly become part of each other’s networks.
What is the common thread in successful business relationships and in profitable networking? It is to value long-term relationship building as opposed to making a quick buck and then dropping them.Are you serving or using your customers? Do you want to be served or to be used? Businesspeople who take the time to build their social capital are the ones who will have new business referred to them over and over. The key is to build mutually beneficial business relationships.
If you want a business relationship with Promise Productions and our profitability strategies to go to work for your business, call us today at 972-822-3587.
Jan 1, 2009
The SOCIAL in Social Media
Why Relationships will Make or Break your business in 2009
The unique part of social media is the "social" part, which is about creating connections and relationship based on something in common. Many businesses are only a fraction as successful as they could be today because they have neglected the "relationship" in their business relationships.
Many businesses do not understand marketing and end up only TALKING AT "Consumers" instead of really seeking to understand and provide value for their customers. Conversely, business that master marketing as the art of GIVING, can create both loyalty and millions in revenue.
Even a company like AT&T that deals with masses of customers and cannot be individual with them still lives or dies based on successfully meeting their client's needs. While that is simple, it is profound. No company is too big or too successful that they do not live or die apart from SERVING.
Enlightened self-interest initiates positive business relationships. Unenlightened self-interest in business is looking to not have to serve, but only be served. That does not work. There is a direct link between the stocks that are up or down and the companies that successfully serve. Your value equals the amount of service your business provide.
Current Example: Starbucks started humble and provided a service: quick, high-quality coffee in a SOCIAL environment. They got cocky started pushing what THEY wanted instead of what the customer wanted. Service suffered in every sense of the business word and they are now being humbled and struggling to stay afloat. The customer need change, the price-points changed, their service attitude changed -- but they did not and they quickly found themselves on their way to being passed by. Only by revamping their service, and their attitude towards service are they holding what market share they have left.
Enter Social Media
2008 has witnessed the maturity of social media for both personal and business interests. A whirlwind of advancements and features have taken social media from its infancy to a force to be reckoned with.
In 2008, advertising agencies were the first to lead the way with the business use of social media by mining sites like MySpace, Facebook and Linkedin for demographic information. Others had some initial success at mining email addresses for spam.
While these activities were grey at best, they underscored a vital truth: any online area where people reveal their age, gender, likes and dislikes is a gold mine for presenting a marketing message to the right audience.
In the last half of 2008, MySpace became the preferred arena of 12-24 year old's whereas Facebook became the #1 adult social media site.
Imagine the transformation: a core human need was suddenly being addressed with new media -- the impersonal online world suddenly had "friends". Friends that would listen to you. Friends that would read your blog. Friends that would welcome you. Friends that liked what you liked.
Friends that would affirm and contribute -- sharing back in a relevant way. Masses flocked to get this need met in astounding numbers, proving yet again that if you meet a real need, the power is profound.
The business side of this phenomena is equally compelling. How many big business deals were actually conducted off the phone and outside the conference room from the golf course, to the gym locker room, to the steak dinner etc in a SOCIAL setting.
Social Settings, from Starbucks to a business lunch provide a VITAL VITAL ingredient -- TRUST from a more authentic conversation -- one with less "agenda" and push to it. Time is invested to listen and understand -- demonstrating that the relationship is valued.
Personableness and authenticity is what humans require in order to trust. How we feel about a thing determines our actions, and as a buyer, that applies to everything across the board from whether we pick tea or coke at a restaurant to whether we buy Ford or Honda. When we don't trust, we are unable to listen, and cannot hear value or opportunity -- killing action and killing relationships.
It becomes clear that your business needs a marketing agency like Promise Productions that understands this and is poised to harness it in a way that benefits your clients and your bottom line alike.
Social Medial provides connections. Shared interests. An easy way to both broadcast and tune in to what you like and are about. Connections form relationships. Business relationships are likewise built on providing the most benefits.
Who's Your Friend?
What is the "take away" from the ongoing evolution of social media to Your interest in success, in clients, in profits?
Let me answer that by first asking what is a real friend? One that will go out of his/her way to be and do FOR you. The opportunity in 2009 is to harness social media to develop MEANINGFUL relationships. Businesses LIVE AND BREATHE meaningful relationships.
Businesses who are not affirming their customer's needs and going out of their way to supply them will whither away. In today's online world, websites and blogs must be developed as integrated marketing communications pieces to show that your business understands your prospect and offers meaningful value. Neglect this and your business will whither away.
Since you are reading this, congratulations, it shows you are willing to give service in order to get market-share and profits. You are now primed for rewarding business relationships!
You have to GIVE to get. While the bottomfeeders spend most of their time looking for the magic shortcut to not really have to give and still scam their way into getting, the true successes of 2009 will be those who realize:
• You can't love everybody meaningfully so you have to define/target your audience.
• The most valuable business relationships are based on understanding, listening to and responding with communication that demonstrates a real solution to your prospect's needs.
How we apply this to your business in 2009: Promise Productions offers:
• Market analysis to identify your ideal customer and the way to use, not just traditional media but also web sites, blogs and social media to present your value to them.
• Web Site Analysis, what is right and wrong with your current approach and how the message targeting, the visual presentation and the programming needs to change to catch the market share you deserve
• Strategic Blogging provides meaningful content, useful content along with links back to your site where its search engine visibility improves and a relationship can be formed.
• Professional visuals: in today's image-dominated world you have to have the right look to be taken seriously and even listened to. We do just that with graphic design, digital photography, and professional video.
The unique part of social media is the "social" part, which is about creating connections and relationship based on something in common. Many businesses are only a fraction as successful as they could be today because they have neglected the "relationship" in their business relationships.Many businesses do not understand marketing and end up only TALKING AT "Consumers" instead of really seeking to understand and provide value for their customers. Conversely, business that master marketing as the art of GIVING, can create both loyalty and millions in revenue.
Even a company like AT&T that deals with masses of customers and cannot be individual with them still lives or dies based on successfully meeting their client's needs. While that is simple, it is profound. No company is too big or too successful that they do not live or die apart from SERVING.
Enlightened self-interest initiates positive business relationships. Unenlightened self-interest in business is looking to not have to serve, but only be served. That does not work. There is a direct link between the stocks that are up or down and the companies that successfully serve. Your value equals the amount of service your business provide.
Current Example: Starbucks started humble and provided a service: quick, high-quality coffee in a SOCIAL environment. They got cocky started pushing what THEY wanted instead of what the customer wanted. Service suffered in every sense of the business word and they are now being humbled and struggling to stay afloat. The customer need change, the price-points changed, their service attitude changed -- but they did not and they quickly found themselves on their way to being passed by. Only by revamping their service, and their attitude towards service are they holding what market share they have left.
Enter Social Media
2008 has witnessed the maturity of social media for both personal and business interests. A whirlwind of advancements and features have taken social media from its infancy to a force to be reckoned with.
In 2008, advertising agencies were the first to lead the way with the business use of social media by mining sites like MySpace, Facebook and Linkedin for demographic information. Others had some initial success at mining email addresses for spam.
While these activities were grey at best, they underscored a vital truth: any online area where people reveal their age, gender, likes and dislikes is a gold mine for presenting a marketing message to the right audience.
Because of social media, Word-of-Mouth was moving online.
In the last half of 2008, MySpace became the preferred arena of 12-24 year old's whereas Facebook became the #1 adult social media site.
Imagine the transformation: a core human need was suddenly being addressed with new media -- the impersonal online world suddenly had "friends". Friends that would listen to you. Friends that would read your blog. Friends that would welcome you. Friends that liked what you liked.
Friends that would affirm and contribute -- sharing back in a relevant way. Masses flocked to get this need met in astounding numbers, proving yet again that if you meet a real need, the power is profound.
The business side of this phenomena is equally compelling. How many big business deals were actually conducted off the phone and outside the conference room from the golf course, to the gym locker room, to the steak dinner etc in a SOCIAL setting.
Social Settings, from Starbucks to a business lunch provide a VITAL VITAL ingredient -- TRUST from a more authentic conversation -- one with less "agenda" and push to it. Time is invested to listen and understand -- demonstrating that the relationship is valued.
Personableness and authenticity is what humans require in order to trust. How we feel about a thing determines our actions, and as a buyer, that applies to everything across the board from whether we pick tea or coke at a restaurant to whether we buy Ford or Honda. When we don't trust, we are unable to listen, and cannot hear value or opportunity -- killing action and killing relationships.
It becomes clear that your business needs a marketing agency like Promise Productions that understands this and is poised to harness it in a way that benefits your clients and your bottom line alike.
Social Medial provides connections. Shared interests. An easy way to both broadcast and tune in to what you like and are about. Connections form relationships. Business relationships are likewise built on providing the most benefits.
Who's Your Friend?
What is the "take away" from the ongoing evolution of social media to Your interest in success, in clients, in profits?
Let me answer that by first asking what is a real friend? One that will go out of his/her way to be and do FOR you. The opportunity in 2009 is to harness social media to develop MEANINGFUL relationships. Businesses LIVE AND BREATHE meaningful relationships.
Businesses who are not affirming their customer's needs and going out of their way to supply them will whither away. In today's online world, websites and blogs must be developed as integrated marketing communications pieces to show that your business understands your prospect and offers meaningful value. Neglect this and your business will whither away.
Since you are reading this, congratulations, it shows you are willing to give service in order to get market-share and profits. You are now primed for rewarding business relationships!
You have to GIVE to get. While the bottomfeeders spend most of their time looking for the magic shortcut to not really have to give and still scam their way into getting, the true successes of 2009 will be those who realize:
• You can't love everybody meaningfully so you have to define/target your audience.
• The most valuable business relationships are based on understanding, listening to and responding with communication that demonstrates a real solution to your prospect's needs.
How we apply this to your business in 2009: Promise Productions offers:
• Market analysis to identify your ideal customer and the way to use, not just traditional media but also web sites, blogs and social media to present your value to them.
• Web Site Analysis, what is right and wrong with your current approach and how the message targeting, the visual presentation and the programming needs to change to catch the market share you deserve
• Strategic Blogging provides meaningful content, useful content along with links back to your site where its search engine visibility improves and a relationship can be formed.
• Professional visuals: in today's image-dominated world you have to have the right look to be taken seriously and even listened to. We do just that with graphic design, digital photography, and professional video.
Enjoy the rewards of positive business relationship, call Promise Productions at 972-822-3587. Get a Quote
Dec 21, 2008
The Strategy in Strategic Marketing
People ask us all the time, exactly what we mean by "Strategic."
Promise Productions provides strategic marketing. Where the strategy comes in is in marketing SMARTER by taking maximum advantage of New Media to augment traditional marketing channels.
Strategy is communicating in words, pictures and video from purpose. Our strategy comes from effectively answering these questions:
· Who is your ideal customer?
· Why should they want to do business with you?
· What are the key mediums relevant to your market to get your messages out there (for example newspapers, tv, internet, radio, direct mail, email, blogs, cell phones, podcasts, etc.)?
· What specific results will we measure to keep you on top?
In Web Site Design, strategic means we analyze everything from color scheme to button placement to exact phrases best appeal to the kind of Image your business needs to attract the best customers. It means generating, not merely hits of traffic, but new profits.
In Postcard Direct Mail, strategic means dozens of design tips that give you the advantage when it comes to responses. It also means connecting the direct mail to an online web site campaign. The direct mail is a teaser and the feature presentation on the web deepens the relationship.
In Social Media, Strategic marketing means serving first in order to be served. It means knowing the right places to be seen. It measures, not meaningless "friends" and popularity, but cultivating a reciprocal exchange of value in action.
In Blogging, Strategic means we write about the subjects that matter to your prospects, in a way that gets your business noticed at the right place and time. Strategic blogging also involves spreading the info on your blog in key places that both promote good links good followings and good visibility.
There are more areas we could talk about to be sure. The thing is, we are sad to see so much haphazard advertising by amateurs and the big agency boys alike. Your budget is not a toy to have fun with to us -- your budget is an investment of trust in our marketing strategy that seeks the optimum return.
If you have money to throw away, don't call us. We can't bear to waste anything. Just as a farmer sows good seed in a good soil, we apply strategy to craft your message and apply it in the right "soil" of audiences where your Value Proposition will take root and your business enjoys the fruits.
There are no gimmicks or free lunches. What we offer is know-how for seeing to it that your effort is a wise one. Call is "value" if you will. Our marketing strategy is there to position you for the results you want.
Learn more by calling Promise Productions with the results you want at 972-822-3578
Dec 20, 2008
Equipped for Success in 2009
The core value that Promise Productions offers as a visual marketing communications firm is our skil sets that equip you for success in 2009 and beyond.
Sure, we do websites, brochures, logos, blogging, photography and video. But the key is that these services are all purpose-driven. They are strategic services from a responsive marketing mindset. Each of these tools is there to quip your business for profits.
We are not just designers, artists, creatives and programmers. We understand marketing and that makes all the difference.
Equipped for Change
We understand your needs change, your market changes, the economy changes, and technology changes. We are poised to adapt quickly to changes and opportunities for your business. We have multiple skill sets we can bring to bear to achieve your goals in a dynamic marketplace.
Equipped for Value
Our visuals, copy writing and presentation skills are geared to present your Value Proposition to your prospects. In other words, WHY they should WANT to do business with you.
We communicate your value to those most interested in your and those you are most interested in. That is bigger than any single marketing action or "patch" to momentary cash flow needs. When your prospect grasps your value, responses are tremendous and profits flow naturally.
Equipped for New Media
Promise Productions is savvy on how to use the new media to expand your audience and target your ideal prospects. Traditional media (Radio, TV, Newspaper, Print, Yellowpages) has largely collapsed in the face of the ability of New Media to reach, persuade and make your message alive and personal. Technology makes New Media as accessible as your phone or computer screen. Let us show you how to take advantage of it!
• Web Design and Web Site Marketing
• Blogging
• Search Engine Visibility
• SMS Marketing
• Email Marketing
• Podcasting
• and last but not least - VIDEO to all these marketing channels
Equipped For Success
Promise Productions offers multiple strategies to dynamically reach your buyer. We help you get more results with less struggle. We call that "value" and our 16 year track record of success is the platform of experience that can look to the future with confidence.
We invite you to call Covenant Designs at 972-822-3587 to join the ranks of those who enjoy higher profitability from superior marketing strategy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)