5 Marketing Tips Inspired by My Dog

Alright, I admit it! Somehow, everything comes back to my delightful dog, Moxie. But, in their pure simplicity, the following tips make perfect sense even in human terms. Our pets, (cats too) are called our best friends for many reasons, including what we learn from them.

1. Never Underestimate the Power of a Treat! Human "treats" can range from meetings over coffee, a meal or drinks to yummy incentives, give-aways and appreciation gifts. I recently had, what turned into a lovely 3 hour lunch with a potential client; a productive, uninterrupted and much more pleasant experience than sitting in a fluorescent lit conference room.

Instead of giving away another generic promotional item at your next trade show, seminar or event, try a little morning or midday "treat", it will go a long way. Plus, people tend to gravitate and linger around food, making for continuing conversation. While you can literally get your logo imprinted on cookies and chocolates request details, or order award winning cookies, brownies, chocolate pretzels and gift baskets from our friends at Geoff & Drews, if you are on a limited budget, individually package several cookies, candies (wouldn't you smile if you got some Tootsie Rolls?) or mini muffins (that you purchase or make yourself if you're so inclined) and include your card or a special offer. It's so simple and will be appreciated. And remember, it's all in the presentation, so visit Nashville Wraps for some great ideas, great prices and low minimums.

These days, you can send clients every imaginable food item or a gift certificate to Restaurant.com to both show your appreciation and offer as a referral incentive.

2. Creating That Special Bond, humanly known as relationship building. While I won't bore you with our story, or my love letter to Moxie, did you ever notice sometimes it's easier to talk to someone you just meet and click with, than a friend's spouse you've known forever? If you're really lucky, when you meet a prospective client, there's a natural connection of some kind to build on. These are the people to develop a relationship with first, since they will most likely be open to networking and providing new contacts. I understand in some industries the courting process can take months (I'm in the middle of one of those projects right now). Sometimes it pays off, and sometimes not, which brings us to Moxie's expertise....

3. Patience... is patience! I know I am very lucky, and Moxie's patience never ceases to amaze me. I am trying to follow his lead. His laid back determination sitting and waiting, waiting, waiting, for that additional piece of food he knows I will eventually break down and give him after I've said no more. No hard-sell there. Just patience. Forget that adorable little face is staring at me the whole time! And when he very nicely waits, while I repeatedly get side-tracked after telling him we are going to do something. So what does this have to do with us??? Once we've pitched, submitted, invited, met with, etc. etc. we wait, and wait and wait..... even now, I am trying to be more patient while I "wait" on four exciting potential projects! A lot of times people get so side-tracked and overwhelmed and we have to remember not to take it personally (although I always do). Since I prefer the kinder gentler approach, I hate to repeatedly "bother" people, and yet more often than not, when I finally do call or email yet again... I am received with appreciation for following up or an apology. So yes, sometimes no news is good news and "good things come to those that wait". Regardless, you have to do what makes you comfortable.

4. Loyalty. Nothing beats the loyalty our beloved furry friends shower us with, but we've earned it. We created the bond, given the treats and taken good care of them which is rewarded with their loyalty. Have you given your clients reason to be loyal? Have you taken good care of them? Shown them you understand and fulfilled their needs? Shown them appreciation? All very simple, but it's the little things.... Now, does anyone have any thoughts about getting them to give us unconditional love too?

5. Companionship. Moxie wanted me to mention, studies have proven pets in the workplace create a very positive environment leading to more productivity, less absenteeism, less stress etc. They make the best colleagues (especially if you work solo), inspire, motivate, make you take fun breaks (alien to non-smokers), you don't mind working longer and best of all, they aren't big on office politics!

I hope you found this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal. Do not hesitate to contact me for personalized recommendations!

To be continued...what I learned from my cat, Precious. Hmmmm......

Warmly,
Andi (and Moxie)

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Is your business card's back side naked?

Now that I have your attention... while re-designing my card, I decided to put my phone and fax numbers on the back lower right side. Staring at the card, it occurred to me, instinctively, most people will automatically turn a card over to look for the phone number. So take advantage of that available "ad space" by including something unique to make a personalized and more memorable first impression!

By offering something reflective of you, your profession or clientele, you can simply set yourself apart from your peers, starting with your card. Below are some suggestions to get your wheels spinning. The possibilities are endless....

Write a personable sentence about what you specialize in or why you are different than everyone else with your title (in addition to the fact you are writing this sentence). Explain what you do, provide or who you're target is, because they may know someone specifically looking for your assistance.

Double your exposure and get in front of ideal clients whose paths you might not otherwise cross by partnering with a (reputable) complimentary business or service that will benefit both of your clients. Depending on your profession and personal style, you can present each other as an introduction, a recommendation, a "thought this might interest you" or simply print one business on each side and when you hand out the card, mention this is a company you work with that will benefit them.

What are you offering that makes you different than everyone else with your title? What will motivate people to follow up with you even if just out of curiosity? Is there some related group, article, complimentary information you can supply or include links that might be useful?

Who doesn't love a little something extra? Can you provide an incentive to contact you? To receive articles/tips/facts etc. about XYZ, sign up at.... What about a "limited-time" offer or discount when you purchase a series of your services or sessions. A give-away etc? Referral discount? or something for free if they contact you?

Provide different offers to targeted groups. It's an interesting way to see who responds to what.Make up cards for specific networking events,conferences, trade shows, non-profit events etc. For example: Members of XYZ, we are pleased to offer a special ..... XYZ Event attendees, enjoy a ...............For non-profit events, you might consider offering to donate xx% of their first purchase or project with you to theorganization.

www.printsmadeeasy.com offers quantities as small as 20! For an additional $8.00 to make this double-sided card, how can you not take advantage of this opportunity to make yourself shine ??

Think about it, if you are willing to give a little added-value upfront, chances are, you're the kind of person people will want to work with! Wouldn't you want to work with you?

I hope you found these suggestions Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com