- CreativeXchange Marketing celebrates 2 years
- Position your business for success in 2008
- Great Networking Events to Attend
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CreativeXchange Marketing celebrates 2 years
A little more than two years ago, my husband, Eric and I had our son, Ethan. We
knew daycare was not for us. We wanted family to raise our child, as we think raising
our child is the ultimate responsibility . We pondered, how could we make this work?
We decided that I would start CreativeXchange Marketing. How naïve of me to think
it would be easy, especially with a newborn. Well we did it and we celebrate our
second anniversary with this issue of Marketing for
Success.
Thanks to everyone who has been a contributing factor to our success. We could not
have done it without you.
Having worked in "Corporate America" for 18 years, I learned a great deal. However,
starting my own business, I think I have learned even more.
To some success
is a big paycheck, travel, promotion opportunities, enjoying the work they do, or
having the schedule they want. For me, I quickly learned it was having a great family
life and having a sense of accomplishment in helping others to grow their business.
Meet
new people constantly and cultivate meaningful relationships. Go out of your way
to help others without any expectation of what you will get back. Hook the right
people up with each other. When you have a one-on-one meeting with someone, ask
them, "So, who would be a good power partner for you?"
Whether your business is established
or a startup, know that there is no room to slack in the sales and marketing department.
Marketing must happen even when business is good. Set weekly goals and schedule
time for marketing and sales activities.
Once the job is done, continue to think about how you can help your customer succeed.
I deliver results driven marketing plans to my clients. I don't stop there. I continue
to think of ideas they can add to their plan. If I think of something, it takes
me all of a couple quick minutes to shoot an email with the idea or a resource.
It
does not matter what business you are in, be in the business of delivering exceptional
customer service.
If you are
a start-up company it may take a little trial and error to find out who your ideal
client is.
Once you have worked with several great clients, you will be able to identify what
characteristics and qualities or demographics they have in common. Stay true to
your target market.
Listen
to your customers and prospects. They will tell you what they need. Offer it if
you are able. Don't say, "I can't do that—I don’t know how". Learn how or partner
with a qualified person who does know how.
As we continue in this next year our goal is to bring more services to our line
of offerings and value to our clients.
This past year we added various marketing plan packages that fit the needs of many
small business owners. Additionally, we have added accepting credit cards and worked
out several payment plan options.
We pray that we will continue to be blessed and have many more successful years
ahead of us and thank each of you for your continued support.
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Position your business for success in 2008
Studies show the best way to position a business for success is by planning.
According to the SBA, 95% of new businesses fail within the first five years because
of lack of planning. Another study showed lack of planning and lack of marketing
skills were major contributors to businesses failing.
As 2007 draws to an end, it is important you have your marketing plans mapped out for 2008.
So, how do you go about this? Here are some tips:
- Stay away from template marketing plans. Every business is different and a template cannot
provide you the knowledge and ideas a professional can.
- If you go down the do-it-yourself route, schedule enough time to do your planning.
A good marketing plan is not written in a day.
- Consult with a professional to explore getting assistance.
- If you still decide to do it on your own, do your research. Research what your marketing
plan should include.
- Plan overview
- Description of your business
- Goals—short term and long term
- Thorough evaluation of your target market—demographic, geographic and psychographic.
- Competitive Analysis—based on your target market review, who are your competitors?
Research them thoroughly.
- A SWOT Analysis—what are your businesses internal Strengths and Weaknesses
and what are your businesses external Opportunities and Threats?
- Marketing Strategies and Tactics (which addresses at minimum the 4 P’s of marketing).
Plus, most plans miss having a retention and tracking strategy.
- Marketing Budget
- Timelines and Responsible Parties
- Commit to having a plan in 2008 and use it.
- For questions, please feel free to contact us at 303.981.1541.
Great Networking Events to Attend
Meet fellow professionals and make new connections
Networking events are a great way to market your business
by making connections with other business owners and multiplying your contacts.
Here are some great networking events to attend this month:
NewBCI: This exciting speed networking event is one-of-a-kind and
a must attend.
- November 8: Check-in 7:30 a.m.
Hylands Golf Course, 9650 Sheridan Blvd., Westminster
- November 15: Check-in 7:15 a.m.
Radisson Hotel, 3200 S. Parker Rd., Aurora
- To register and for more information,
visit: www.newbci.com
Colorado Business Leads Downtown Denver B2B Chapter is seeking guests
to visit in the following categories and consider joining as potential new members:
- Commercial Realtor
- Commercial Mover
- Credit Card Processing
- Corporate Gifts
- Commercial Video
- Commercial Photography
- Telephone/Telecom provider
- Trainers
This powerful B2B group passes qualified leads and has great power partnerships.
First time guests are free and receive breakfast.
- 1st three Friday’s of every month, from 8
a.m.—9:15 a.m.
- Dixon’s Downtown Grill on the corner of
16th & Wazee
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Call or email us today for a free consultation