Whether 2004 was a good, bad or indifferent year for
your business, you'd like to make 2005 even better. What's it going to
take?
I was about to call it quits for the day when the phone rang. It was
Donald Monroe calling from Sterling, Virginia. He told me that he wanted
to learn everything he can about marketing his business. When I asked
Donald which of my small business marketing manuals he was interested
in, he answered, "all
of them." Why was he so eager to improve his marketing? Was his
business in the dumps?
On the contrary, last year was one of Donald's most successful years
ever. He spent over thirty thousand dollars marketing his business and
made much more in return. He's set his goals even higher for 2005 and
is convinced that marketing is the best investment he can make in his
business.
You might be surprised to know that Donald isn't in real estate, financial
management, law, or accounting; he owns a plumbing business. Smal business
marketing is a key factor in Donald's success, helping Monroe Plumbing
Get Attention, Position themselves as experts and Sell their services.
In addition to his yellow page ad and signs on his truck, Donald spends
money on advertising, door hangers, and a web site. All of these distinguish
Monroe from the competition.
Most plumbers make a good living and don't look beyond the
typical independent practitioner model and a yellow page ad. Whether
you're a plumber, an accountant, life coach or financial manager, take
a lesson from Donald and rethink the potential of your business.
1. Set the Bar High
Donald wants to double his business in the next few years. Having a clearly
defined goal can also motivate you to create a business marketing plan
that will enable you accomplish your goals.
What's your dream for your business?
How much do you want your business to grow?
What are your business goals for 2005?
2. Invest the Time and Money to Improve Your Marketing
No matter how successful Donald is, he knows that he could be doing better.
He’s continually looking for new marketing ideas and strategies
to help his business grow, and he's not afraid to spend money to get
expert advice or implement new tactics.
Want to learn more about marketing your business?
Which small business marketing resources do you plan to use in 2005?
I wrote these to help you create an effective business marketing message, marketing
plan and to show you how to use your web site to generate more qualified leads
and sales. Here are the links to get your copies:
3. Deliver Outstanding Service
Monroe Plumbing takes people by surprise with their timely, courteous
service and their attention to details. This approach not only gets
them noticed but also brings in repeat business and referrals.
How do you differentiate your products and services from your competition?
What can you do to provide outstanding services and products?
To make 2005 your best marketing year ever, set high goals, make a
plan, get the knowledge and skills you need, and provide outstanding service.
Take another look at your business and you can find opportunity for innovation
and growth.
