Connect on social media sites like Facebook.  Take a lesson from business models such as Starbucks with more than 7 million fans/followers. Study them and model the behavior that you know will benefit your own fan-base. That can include offering exclusive Facebook Discounts, contests and more.

Introduce people to each other. Make profitable connections for others and in turn they are likely to do the same for you. Be a people/business connector

Blog. Did I mention to blog? Blog is both a noun and a verb. A blog is an online journal and to blog is to create/submit content to a blog. Smart marketers have their own blogs AND blog on other blog sites that cater to the same demographic or target audience.

Look for potential referral partners. This is more than the introduction mentioned above. Find people to strategically partner with specifically for the purpose of referring one another business.

Do these five things to connect, communicate with your target audience and referral partners and you WILL close more sales.

Multi-step marketing is a simple yet extremely powerful strategy when you use it to its full potential. Multi-step marketing is selling people who have contacted you and asked for information about your product or service; a great way to build your own mailing list of prospects and customers.

You are able to send multiple mailings to those same people from which you have created your own mailing list. The key to multi-step marketing is following up with the prospects using an intensive direct mail campaign. How do you develop your multi-step marketing campaign? Follow these four simple steps… click here to read the entire article.

Step One
Use some sort of direct response advertising to obtain your “leads.” Your ads should have a powerful headline directed at your target audience that causes them to read the rest of the ad and respond. The purpose of your ad is to arouse the reader’s or listener’s curiosity, getting them to call. Always offer them something for free. Your goal in step one is to generate leads.

Step Two
Your prospect reads the ad and calls – leaving her name and address or she writes to you for more information. Using voice mail almost always generates more leads because people want things quickly and easily. Thank the prospect for calling, state a couple of major benefits, and end by asking for her name and address. The message should be between one and two minutes – no more. The goal in step two is to record your leads.

Step Three
Send your direct response offer to the prospect. These prospects fall into one of three categories. We’ll call them cold, warm and hot prospects. A Cold prospect is slightly interested; she is looking and will not buy. These prospects represent a small percentage of your inquiries. A Warm prospect is very interested, but not ready to buy. They represent the majority of your inquiries. A Hot prospect is very interested and ready to buy. They also represent a small percentage of your inquiries.

Step Four
Follow up with mailings to prospects who didn’t buy. Repeat this step again and again. According to “Sales and Marketing Magazine,” 80% of all people who inquire about a product buy that product within one year, but not from the company that made the original contact. Why? Because the company didn’t follow up. It generally takes at least five contacts with a prospect who showed interest in the product or service you offer before they will buy from you. If you are successful with the initial mailing, you can expect 30 to 70 percent in leads turning into customers with follow up mailings.

You don’t have to change the entire mailing each time. Generally changing the cover letter and making minor changes to the mailing is sufficient. Remember that one of your biggest expenses is getting the prospect. By following these four steps you can watch your sales and profits sky-rocket!

There is no question that the past two years have been challenging for many people in business. However, there are businesses who even in a tough economy seem to thrive.  They do this because they follow the simple principles of buying and selling that have served companies well for years and years.

They know that in order to stay in business they have to do certain things well and consistently.  Here are 3 tips successful companies use to increase business in a challenging economy and in any economy:

1. Increase the number of clients, customers, members, players, guests.

2. Find ways to get customers to buy more per transaction.

3. Get customers to buy more often.

Each of these things can be accomplished if you do the following three things:

Train your staff how to sell! Here’s a book that can help: FREE Ebook
Increase Sales Productivity: http://www.smartsellingtools.com/2010salesproductivity.pdf

Find different ways to connect with customers and connect more often.

Create a Loyalty Program to reward customers and clients for frequent purchases made.

With a little ingenuity and foresight you can create more value for customers while increasing your bottom line.

I am sure there are other more advanced tips to share and will look to my readers to add their ideas in the comments.

1. Participate! The key to success in networking is allowing others to get to know you. That means responding to posts you have an interest in as well as posting items of interest to women.

2. Ask questions! If you have a challenge, need or concern, use your network to seek guidance. With the number of members in this network, there is certain to be someone who can help you.

3. When you post a new topic, please include a specific topic or brief description in the subject line. That way, only those interested will read and respond. It will also endear you to the members because they will know you care enough about them to not waste their time by making them read items that they have no interest in.

4. The length of the message is not as important as the details necessary to get your point across. Given our limited time, the best posts are those that “get to the point” early in the conversation. Exceptions are when you are selling something. People ask me all the time how long a sales page should be and I have learned from many experts that it depends. It depends on what you are selling, how much it costs, who you are selling to and a number of other factors. Your message should be as long as it needs to be to “tell the story.”

5. If you want to post an article that pertains to a specific topic, post the first paragraph and a link to read the rest of the article. Also, be sure to give proper attribution to the author of the article, especially if the author is you:).

6. Create a signature line to use with your posts. Something that tells us about you or displays your websites. Give people a reason to click on the links. Hint: when you include the http:// in the URL it makes the link clickable on the page.

7. Say hello to other members of the network by stopping by their Home page and signing their guestbook or sending them a private message – it is important that you just say hello at this point, and not try to SELL them something.

8. Be open, listen and read other posts and respond in a positive way. I have seen Negativity MULTIPLY on social networking sites that leads to hurt feelings and withdrawal (or even banishment) from the boards. My grandmother use to say “You attract more flies with honey than vinegar” wise words to live by and try to model each and every day.

9. Posting MLM opportunities – make sure the board you participate in encourages members to post MLM opportunities, before trying to recruit members to your team. If they do, share the benefits you and your following has experienced and slowly introduce members to your company. Some people don’t fully understand multi-level/direct sales and it is important to “educate them” as much as possible up front.  When you do, you will be surprised at how many actually WANT to try the product and better yet, become one of your team.

10. When someone on the network has done something nice for you or provided a great service, thank them publicly. Let the members know who you do business with and help promote one another in a positive and supporting way.  Facebook is one group that has a system where you can recommend others, offer testimonials and introduce other members to one another.

11. Lurking is okay. Until you feel comfortable getting to know the members and the “attitude” of a network, feel free to lurk. However, if you want to get known quickly, the best way is to jump in with both feet and get involved. It is remarkable how much more you will receive out of your membership once you engage in the conversations.

12. Stay on topic. If the post is about relationships, and you have something to add to the conversation, please do. I have seen people “hijack” conversations by changing the topic in midstream, which can demonstrate to others a lack of respect for the poster. If you want to change the subject, better to start a new thread (conversation).

13. Introduce yourself. After visiting several social networking sites, I have found a large number of profiles with very little information, incomplete or non-existent profiles. Which makes it more difficult to get to know you or find out if you are someone I might want to connect with.  The best way to develop rapport and build a relationship is to share personal tidbits over time about yourself. Let the groups know what you do professionally and personally.

14. Get organized and keep track of where you are posting by making a folder to store those valuable responses, and keep track of which networks you regularly visit. Some of the posts could be used in other formats such as the beginnings of topics for a blog post.

15. Some networks require you to post in certain threads only. You can save those posts as FAVORITES on your computer and then when it is time to post to that thread you have it as a favorite and don’t have to look for that thread when you need it.

16. Appreciate diversity. Many of us come from different walks of life– we can all learn something from each other if we are open to the possibilities. If you feel uncomfortable branching out and getting to know others because they look different, you could be missing out on a grand opportunity.

17. Connecting with people via private message is a good way to network if; you are truly looking to expand your circle, you have something to offer and it is clearly stated in the message. In the book “Never Eat Alone” Keith Ferrazzi makes a point of always telling folks what’s in it for them before he EVER asks something of them (except a meeting). He makes the offer almost irresistible by doing research on his prospects to find out what “hot buttons” they are most likely to respond to.

And finally, take it slow and don’t join every social network at once or you can get overwhelmed. Try two or three to start with and see how it works – be a giver of VALUABLE advice – don’t go into social networking expecting clients…be there to build relationships.

Congratulations!

Appearing on television can be a dream or it can be a nightmare.  The type of experience you have is primarily up to you.  Knowing what to expect in advance, succinctly articulating your message and following up will make the experience a “dream come true.”  Remember that most broadcast stories have one thing in common, brevity.  New stories generally run 60 to 90 seconds in length, a feature anywhere from two to four minutes and a full guest appearance on say, a talk show, can be 20 to 50 minutes long.  Whatever time you have before the audience, make the most of it.  Whether you are a “spokesperson” for an organization or speaking on your own behalf, there are do’s and don’ts that will make it a success.

Success means preparation, when Making your appearance, the experience you display during the Interview will ultimately Leave a lasting impression. It will give you that Extra professional edge next time expertise in your area is needed.  So RELAX, READ, and remember to SMILE.

Here are 12 Tips to keep you focused and better prepared for your on camera debut:

• When answering questions, maintain eye contact with the interviewer.  
 
• Seat yourself comfortably, leaning into the conversation to show interest.

• Modulate your voice to emphasize key points.

• Have water close by, and a handkerchief for your face.

• If there is more than one person interviewing you, sit strategically so you can avoid swiveling your head back and forth.

• Body language is important. Sit up straight and at a slight angle to the camera.

• Put the microphone to the side of you that is closest to the interviewer, tucking away any excess wire.

• When doing a “mike check,” state your name and perhaps a 15 second sound byte of your message. Only say “off camera” what you would say “on camera.” 

• Make your expression match your words, telling good news with a smile and the appropriate expression when the subject is more serious.

• Be yourself.  Be natural.  Have a conversation with your host/hostess. Direct your remarks to the audience. Be enthusiastic.

• Answer each question completely in the order you were asked.

• Keep your responses short, direct and to the point.

For more great tips on How to be a ACE that media interview, check out  SMILE! You’re on Candid Camera – a Special 8-page report you can get for FREE  when you go to: http://speakingwithspirit.com/free-report-smile-youre-on-candid-camera/

1. Make a good first impression. Let visitors know immediately upon arrival to your site, what you do and who the site is for.  Look at your site. Does it portray the exact message your brand stands for?

2. Tell visitors what you do. It just might be the most effective way to reinforce your brand. The benefits of doing business with your company should be immediately obvious to the visitor.
 
3. Get real!  Your branding efforts will be much more effective when you show the human side of doing business with your company.  In fact, it’s okay to put your name, photo and a personal message on your site. I personally get annoyed by sites that requests and messages be sent to the Webmaster.  The Webmaster may be one of the most important people to your business, however to the general public, it’s like speaking to a recording.
 
4. Become a wordsmith.   One of the most important skills you can develop for greater online impact is the proper use of words, crafted to emit passion, emotion and most importantly a call to action. If you need help in this area, I recommend taking a copyrighting course at a junior college or community school. Visitors will stay longer and you will sell more if you write in a conversational tone.

5. Cultivate your champions and fans. Champions are people who visit your website, buy your products and services, and subscribe to your newsletter.  And they tell everyone about you! Fans may not necessarily buy, but they too spread the word about your company in a positive way. Cultivate both!

Excerpted from: Creating a Buzzzzz: Building Your Brand in the Marketplace ~ a special report by Heidi Richards Mooney.

Get your free copy here:  http://speakingwithspirit.com/creating-a-buzzzzz-building-your-brand-in-the-marketplace/

Your Champions are clients, customers, vendors and anyone familiar with your service that are simply ecstatic about what you do. They are the ones who tell everyone to use your service. In fact, they will call potential customers on your behalf to tell them about you. Ask your Champions for the names of their contacts that have events or occasions coming up. Send those contacts a note, introducing you to them. Include your business cards, a testimonial letter, and an offer. The offer could be to set up an appointment to meet, or a discount on your initial consultation.

Your Fans are those who do business with you, but would not think about referring your services on their own. They need a little encouragement. Ask them if they know of anyone else who is having an event that could use your service. Tell them you would like to contact those people to offer your services to them. Most of the time they are happy to help you out. They just wouldn’t think of it themselves.

• Send greeting cards for all special events listed on the information cards previously filled out by attendees. Retailers might want to include a note for the recipient to stop by for the 25-cent tour and a small gift.  I use SendOutCards for all my client appreciation programs. It is simple, automated, time-saving and perfect for my fast paced life. You can actually go to SendOutCards.com/Heidi and grab a FREE card of your own to try it out. Go ahead, its on me!

• Send postcards a few weeks before each holiday or event listed offering a free consultation on other services you provide, discounts on purchases, or some other promotional item. It is important to keep you at the ‘top of their mind’ when they might be planning another event or know someone who is.  You can also use SendOutCards.com/heidi to create first-class postcards that will keep you top of mind with any and all referral sources. Here is a postcard I created that people tell me they keep long after they receive it.  It is fun, kinda quirky and oh by the way, is me at 4 years old!  With SendOutCards you can custom create your own look  with your own pictures and graphics as you can see from this example.

• Fax or mail ideas for events two or three months prior to their corporate, or milestone events. Offer a special consultation rate to help them plan a successful event.

• Stay in contact with them using the information they provided under interests. If their hobby is growing orchids, and you see an article for an orchid or exotic plant show, cut it out and mail it to them. They will be impressed that you took the time to send it. In fact, they probably won’t remember the information cards and may even wonder how you knew. It could lead to a phone call, worthwhile conversation and more events.

• If you see your clients and others listed on your information cards ‘in the news’ cut it out, and send it to them along with a Congratulations or Good News Travels Fast note.
The Little Extra’s Can Bring Big Results!

• If your client has a business that you can promote, Promote It! Hand out the client’s business cards, keep a stack of them on hand to give to others when the opportunity arises. I cross promote with many of the people who do business with me and this has grown my referral business more than simply doing a great job.

• Include photos with letters to clients and vendors.
 
• Keep your database current, adding and deleting as necessary. You wouldn’t want to send the assistant a note, if the assistant is no longer with your client. It might just offend the person who replaced him/her and it would certainly make you look unprofessional.
 
• Maintain good records of each event. If you hear from a client 3 years from now, you can show your skills when you review their previous event. Include in those records what went wrong, and what needed to be improved. Include photos and samples of décor, activities and anything that will help expand your portfolio. Be sure to ask permission of your client to use these in your promotional materials.

If you follow the above advice, you will not only survive, you will thrive in your endeavors. The domino effect will happen. You will be known as a caring professional, one that is in it for the benefit of all concerned and not just in it for the business!

To your success… and then some,

Heidi

The important thing is to spread the word to customers and prospects in as many ways as possible.  The bottom line is that even the best promotion will fall flat if not properly promoted. 

The Media ~ The success of any quirky marketing idea hinges on getting the media’s attention.  Getting media coverage is what every businessowner prays for.  It’s the end-goal of all that public relations stuff we do to get our companies, ideas and organizations noticed.

And it isn’t easy.  Far from it! It’s one of the few efforts we do to promote our business that we have little, if any control over -making it challenging and sometimes frustrating. 

Look at each media and determine which one(s) will work for you. Each media has a variety of strengths and weaknesses for youTo consider.  Price versus value versus number of people who would actually respond to or pay attention to the media you are considering are all important factors in determining your options.  At this stage it is important to develop a Media BUDGET – one you can live with and have a fair amount of certainty will pull the results you expect (return on investment).

Put Your Quirky Marketing Plan in Action and monitor the results.

More great marketing ideas can be found in the Quirky Marketing Calendar ~ How to Use Zany and Non-traditional Holidays to Promote Your Business 365 Days a Year!

There are so many ways to use the media and for most projects to be a success, finding the right outlet and the right message are critical.  And promotions generally begin with an offer.  That’s especially true of one-time projects, like one-time events, special promotions, milestones in business, etc.  Your promotion should be of value to your customers, relevant to your business and enhance your competitive edge.

It is important to develop a marketing strategy based on the understanding of your clients, your completion and your strengths.  Then you can plan your marketing activities and monitor the results. Monitoring is important so you can see what’s working and where you need to adjust your plans.

Developing your marketing strategy begins with identifying your target market. Within your target market is your Ideal Customer.  Who do you want to sell your products and services to?  What does your target market want and need? What are their concerns, issues; what influences them? Where does your target market hang out? How does your target market research products and services?  When are they most likely to use your product or service? Why would they want or need your product or service (their motivating factors)? Motivating factors could include price, quality, benefits, service, compatibility with other products and services, scarcity. Who is your ideal customer currently buying from?

Once you answer all these questions it will be easier to tailor a program that addresses the answers and fits your company’s mission.

Next you must determine where/how you will sell your product or service. What advertising mediums will you use?  What type of customer support will your business require? How will your customers pay for products and what delivery mechanisms do you need to have in place (such as mail order, digital product distribution, coaching, etc.)?

As you create your quirky marketing plan, each area and question should be addressed. 

In case you don’t know where to begin or are experiencing a challenge getting the creative juices flowing, here’s an exercise that I often use to get started.  Grab a pad of paper and a pen and start writing.  Write anything that comes to mind, write for about 30 minutes. Now stop. Look at what you wrote and pick one or two words or ideas and think about how you can use them in the marketing campaign you are about to embark upon.

Need some ideas to kick-start your marketing efforts? Check out Quirky Marketing Calendar ~ How to Use Zany and Non-traditional Holidays to Promote Your Business 365 Days a Year!