The 80/20 Rule for Marketing

Kick start your small business marketing plan with the 80/20 rule., Marketing begins – not with ideas – but with data! Did you know that in general terms, 80% of your revenue comes from 20% of your loyal customers and their networks? The old 80/20 rule or Pareto Principle was created in 1906 by economist…

9 Marketing Tricks

9 Marketing tricks from retailers – to be aware of – or to copy! Retailers are smart. They have done their research and know our weaknesses. They know how to make us use more and spend more. You can use these tactics in your own small business – or be sure to be aware of…

rear view mirror

Market Research

Market Research There are two schools of thought when it comes to the value of market research for business: “Running a company on market research is like driving while looking in the rear view mirror” “Running a company without market research is like driving with your eyes closed” I think the truth lies somewhere in…

Too Many Ideas Not Enough Time

I am guilty of it – most small business owners are – too many ideas – not enough time! Especially when it comes to marketing. There are so many ways to market your business – especially online – and there are so many people telling how you their idea is the best. My inbox is…

The empowered buyer

Buyers are changing in every industry.  Armed with extensive and easily available information, buyers are spending more time researching and using a broader range of sources than ever before. Buyers today believe they have infinite choice and infinite power and they’re not afraid to use it! The era of the ’empowered buyer’ is characterised by:…

Is the greeting card dead?

Ok so it’s a long way from Christmas (unless you are in retail!) but how many of you are planning to send Christmas / Season’s Greetings cards / e-cards to your customers this year? As a small business operator – seasonal cards are a great idea – but only if it’s part of your communication…