Tips for better marketing

Marketing is an essential and vital function of every company. Savvy business owners understand that their marketing is often the lifeblood of their company. Consider this-If your customers don't know what you are offering, or where to find you, how will they buy from you? Often times, business owners become overwhelmed with the day to day demands, of running their business and forget to put sufficient emphasis on their marketing. This can be a serious mistake that can even threaten the long term survival of your business. Creating and putting the most effective marketing in place, is the best strategy, to help your business grow, for the long term. Here are some tips for better marketing-

• Don't forget about the customers you already have-Many times business owners are so excited to expand their business, they often forget about a valuable resource they already have-their existing customers. If you are not focusing on them with your marketing efforts, then you may find that they feel unappreciated and move onto one of your competitors. It is important to keep in mind that your existing customers are bringing in nearly 80% of your sales. If you are failing to market effectively to them, you are actually overlooking the main source of your sales!Marketing to your existing customers does not have to elaborate or expensive. You should send out thank yous, email newsletters and other special VIP discounts to let them know that you appreciate their business. All of these marketing strategies are low cost, but can really pay off in a big way.
• Educate your consumer-Part of your marketing efforts should be focused on why consumers should buy your product or service, over someone else's. You can do this by starting a blog and publishing articles that will let your customers know about what you an offer them. You should also get on social media sites, where you know your customers will be, and get involved in any discussion forums. Your customers will respect the fact that you are taking a proactive approach toward establishing your voice However; you should be concerned about content. You want to make sure that whatever marketing content you are using, that you are providing something of value to your customer. If you fail to provide something of value to your customer, or you are only making one long sales pitch, they will quickly tune out your marketing and move on. You want to position your company, as the expert in your field, so that when you customer has a need or want, they know immediately that they can come to you.
• Utilize trade shows and other special events-It is important that your business has a presence at industry trade shows, conferences or other applicable events, for your industry. Attending these type of events can give you access not only to potential customers, but vendors, suppliers, investors and even potential partners. This can be an effective way to create relationships with your competition that can result in cooperative marketing. You can also get an inside view as to what your competition is doing and how well it is going, in their marketing efforts.
• Be innovative-It is crucial that you don't allow your marketing to settle into a rut. It is important to keep in mind that not every marketing method, works for every company, at any particular time. This means that you must be willing to be creative in how you present your marketing. You want to make sure that your customers can easily spot your marketing message, above the rest of the competition.