The Festive season is here, at last!
I always have heard about people talking about how by December the rush takes over and the festive business season arrives! I guess because I have not been in business that long that I have established a routine- or what other would you describe business sales flow?
I was not sure if the festive season for my business was going to show itself to me? Did my business have what it takes?
During the year I have done many more quotes than jobs that I have gotten & had many meeting that did not transpire to anything... until now. Someone how all that hard work in the year has come back to me. I am proud that I can see true potential for scratch card.co.za! Its slow and step by step things are moving forward! This is how I believe that I can run a business and get things working for me!
Next year I intend to let the festive season for business continue!
Sunday
Scratch and make some money!
Scratch cards,
Scratch and win!,
scratch and sniff
scratch and play,
take a chance...
We have heard them all before. But does scratch really incentive people to buy more?
Scratch card.co.za seems to think that there something to this industry. so much so that they have dedicated a whole site to it, isnt that a very small or niche product?
Ok, I have a few questions, getting them off my chest.
Who has the stats?
Scratch and win!,
scratch and sniff
scratch and play,
take a chance...
We have heard them all before. But does scratch really incentive people to buy more?
Scratch card.co.za seems to think that there something to this industry. so much so that they have dedicated a whole site to it, isnt that a very small or niche product?
Ok, I have a few questions, getting them off my chest.
Who has the stats?
Thursday
Springleap Promo and Prize day TODAY
I recently went on a seminar that spoke about how Richard Branson got his companies to where they are today! he said that h tried to create a hype around all the products that he promoted. We all know that huge fantastic extravaganza he created when creating a foofy-slide (don't know another name for it hmm)from the top of Santon City building. he then proceeded to slide down it! WOW! The press the whole of JHB and more gathered to witness this... and that exactly what he wanted!
So today is the 1st Prize giving for the 1st winner of Springleap and we are having a fat Party at the NEW FUNKY SPRINGLEAP OFFICES IN WOODSTOCK.
If YOU want to come let me know, i am sure we can offer you a beer! A brand new brand called Jack Black. The packaging looks great and think will be well deserved at the end of today.
We have invited some of the who's who in Cape Town and hope that they will come.Cross fingers. Otherwisew we going to have some hot music, fab people and create as bigger buzz with local mag's, lotsa chips, dips and wine from Storm Hoek!
So today is the 1st Prize giving for the 1st winner of Springleap and we are having a fat Party at the NEW FUNKY SPRINGLEAP OFFICES IN WOODSTOCK.
If YOU want to come let me know, i am sure we can offer you a beer! A brand new brand called Jack Black. The packaging looks great and think will be well deserved at the end of today.
We have invited some of the who's who in Cape Town and hope that they will come.Cross fingers. Otherwisew we going to have some hot music, fab people and create as bigger buzz with local mag's, lotsa chips, dips and wine from Storm Hoek!
Wednesday
Move to new offices
all went smoothly and have moved into our new offices.
Will fill you in all the exciting things happening and maybe take a few pics!
Will fill you in all the exciting things happening and maybe take a few pics!
Thursday
A day in the making of a scratch card
Scratch card.co.za has officially been running for a few months now!
We have had our highs and then most certainly had lows ... but I am going to keep going until everyone has has heard of scratch card.co.za!
I have recently been working with a production company on a scratch card incentive to promote an alcoholic beverage. They called me up last week and said that they needed the scratch cards put together urgently by the weekend. Quickly got onto it and put the design together... Jason I can rely on always, and then made the necessary arrangements.
Scratch cards go through a few process before they come out perfect little 10's. They must be printed, proofed, positives, silver paints applied, dried and cut to shape.
Not to promise things that wont happen I usually allow for 10 days to complete this process... unless you beg, plead, lol then I most definitively make a plan!
Went to see how the scratch cards came out yesterday and they looking great.
Everything is a process, so although all went well, this happens with a lot of communication and energy.
We have had our highs and then most certainly had lows ... but I am going to keep going until everyone has has heard of scratch card.co.za!
I have recently been working with a production company on a scratch card incentive to promote an alcoholic beverage. They called me up last week and said that they needed the scratch cards put together urgently by the weekend. Quickly got onto it and put the design together... Jason I can rely on always, and then made the necessary arrangements.
Scratch cards go through a few process before they come out perfect little 10's. They must be printed, proofed, positives, silver paints applied, dried and cut to shape.
Not to promise things that wont happen I usually allow for 10 days to complete this process... unless you beg, plead, lol then I most definitively make a plan!
Went to see how the scratch cards came out yesterday and they looking great.
Everything is a process, so although all went well, this happens with a lot of communication and energy.
Friday
Starting A New Business - baby blunders
Business and busyness ... that the trick in getting a small business going.
I have been slogging, trying to get people to know about scratchcard.co.za and a few other marketing tools of Natural Gravity.
I think one always starts with great ideas and the willingness to get up and try and try again everyday, right at the beginning. People always say the 1st couple of months of getting a business going is always the toughest. But why?
- Motivation
- Deciding what comes first?
- Motivation
- Push down and climb back up
- Keep going
- Do whatever it takes!
It's so easy to follow the obvious advice given by so many entrepreneurs... or is it?
I have learned so much about a new start business in the last few months. More than that, I have been teaching myself a new way to think!
Getting your head around it all...
From the pre-planning to implementation and finally to making some money is a process. One that takes will, risk and confidence every step of the way. I have been learning so much about myself and how I react to people, how I interpret different situations and also how different my way of doing things are to others. Starting a new business takes a different mind space. It is not only about having a great product. This is fundamental knowledge in the process. Don't I get it...yet :)?
I read a book by Scott Cundall about 'what not to do in business', very clever and probably very true... but does explain some Very hard hitting facts. Like the number of businesses that are successful first time round. At this early stage is that really what I want to be hearing? No! Anyway, great points Scott but save it till I make it huge and am not in the 60%mark that fail!
Baby Blunders are part of the learning and growing process. No baby learns to walk, without falling or flopping to the ground once in it's first walking steps.
I am officially shouting out to the world and also giving myself a good pat on the back and allowing myself this baby blunder. Starting this business was never going to be easy and I will just get back up on it once again.
Have a great weekend.
To all those who are celebrating Pesach, Hag Pesach Sameach!
I have been slogging, trying to get people to know about scratchcard.co.za and a few other marketing tools of Natural Gravity.
I think one always starts with great ideas and the willingness to get up and try and try again everyday, right at the beginning. People always say the 1st couple of months of getting a business going is always the toughest. But why?
- Motivation
- Deciding what comes first?
- Motivation
- Push down and climb back up
- Keep going
- Do whatever it takes!
It's so easy to follow the obvious advice given by so many entrepreneurs... or is it?
I have learned so much about a new start business in the last few months. More than that, I have been teaching myself a new way to think!
Getting your head around it all...
From the pre-planning to implementation and finally to making some money is a process. One that takes will, risk and confidence every step of the way. I have been learning so much about myself and how I react to people, how I interpret different situations and also how different my way of doing things are to others. Starting a new business takes a different mind space. It is not only about having a great product. This is fundamental knowledge in the process. Don't I get it...yet :)?
I read a book by Scott Cundall about 'what not to do in business', very clever and probably very true... but does explain some Very hard hitting facts. Like the number of businesses that are successful first time round. At this early stage is that really what I want to be hearing? No! Anyway, great points Scott but save it till I make it huge and am not in the 60%mark that fail!
Baby Blunders are part of the learning and growing process. No baby learns to walk, without falling or flopping to the ground once in it's first walking steps.
I am officially shouting out to the world and also giving myself a good pat on the back and allowing myself this baby blunder. Starting this business was never going to be easy and I will just get back up on it once again.
Have a great weekend.
To all those who are celebrating Pesach, Hag Pesach Sameach!
Tuesday
April Fools Jokes
Is it fair to play fools jokes... I think so, hysterical!
My boyfriend told a hold bunch of people that he was closing down one of his businesses. So funny and people actually believed him. Would not be that funny if it was true!
HAPPY APRIL FOOLS TO ALL OF YOU THAT TOOK PART!!
Enjoy the rest of the month!!
My boyfriend told a hold bunch of people that he was closing down one of his businesses. So funny and people actually believed him. Would not be that funny if it was true!
HAPPY APRIL FOOLS TO ALL OF YOU THAT TOOK PART!!
Enjoy the rest of the month!!
Thursday
Scratchcards Promotions and Incentives
WWW.SCRATCHCARD.CO.ZA
I have recently started a subsidiary company for Natural Gravity Marketing, called scratchcard.co.za
After some thought and then lots of chats with friends and family, I decided to go more niche!
Its really tough trying to sell a large packaged service to a company. Going into the meeting one tries to identify a particular area in which we as a marketing agency can help and then go with that one. Marketing is a broad subject, there are so many different kinds of marketing techniques that can be implemented to see results.
I often find that it depends entirely on what the company has done in the past and most likely will repeat in the future!
Scratchcard.co.za came together to ensure that our customers get standard competitive pricing and the best quality design, always with reliable service!
Thats what I would expect! It really grates me when I have to wait for something... anything, so I would like to offer my clients the kind service that I want :)
Scratch cards are a fun interactive tool to use in any business and one can really create fun and interactive ways to:
Create return customers
Show customer Appreciation
Secret sales
Promo's
Fund raising activities
Lotterys
Internal Incentives
Coupons
Games
Win Cards
Funny Cards
The list goes on...
The site is almost complete and I am so excited to get things on the move! I have some really great ideas to propel scratchcard.co.za forward. This is going to be big I feel it.
Now I have to make mention of someone in my team whom without, I know that I could not have come this far! Jason Hobbs, has been my absolute trusted confidant. His unique creative talents has been invaluable. The fact that he has always gone the extra mile for his work makes his such an asset! I am so lucky to have a friend and colleague like him. Even when I was working for another company and handling their accounts, Jason could always could be relied on for any job however small or Large!!
I'm so excited, that I finally have a fabulous product that I know every company would like to take advantage of!
www.scratchcard.co.za
Do - It- Yourself Search Engine Optomisation
Among many bloggers also known as online authors or online journalists, knowledge is power when it comes to marketing yourself or your website over the net.
I'm sure that you have heard a few definitions of SEO and I don't profess to know more than some of you research geeks :). But I will attempt to give a simple understanding, to do-it-yourself SEO. After reading and doing my own research(basically, picking the brains of very knowledgeable people), here is what I got.
There are four main areas
- Link quality:
Link your site to others that will be interested to have your information on their site. Link to content within your own site. Create links to others in your copy when referencing them
- Time:
Some things ... just take time. A couple of months and then some great sites I have asked,' How did they do that??' and it took a couple of years!
- Content:
Repetition of key words. Use one common theme per page content. e.g. 'design explanation' and printing explanation' on another, as what is done on naturalgravity.co.za. Must be readable and interesting to the human eye. Do not write for the robots to see you, they won't. Optimize your site by writing interesting content.
- Page Title Tags:
Correct title tags per page and not for the overall site. I have No idea how to do that... cant DIY, ask your programmer/web designer.
In order for you to do-it-yourself, follow these basic rules and apply it to your website in order to increase ranking and credibility in the search engines.
Why would I want more people to view my site, you ask?
1) The more visitors that you have coming to your site, the more credibility the 'robots' (or bots), pic up and therefor increase your page ranking (a cycle).
2) More visitors, more chance of a purchase on line.
3) Attract people that are searching for exactly or very close to, that which your website is offering.
4) If searchers find immediately what they looking for, they will investigate your site and not just exit it immediately.
5) Sales and marketing of your product
Yes, you can Do-It-Yourself search engine optimization. This is not rocket science, if you start with the simple steps.
I'm sure that you have heard a few definitions of SEO and I don't profess to know more than some of you research geeks :). But I will attempt to give a simple understanding, to do-it-yourself SEO. After reading and doing my own research(basically, picking the brains of very knowledgeable people), here is what I got.
There are four main areas
- Link quality:
Link your site to others that will be interested to have your information on their site. Link to content within your own site. Create links to others in your copy when referencing them
- Time:
Some things ... just take time. A couple of months and then some great sites I have asked,' How did they do that??' and it took a couple of years!
- Content:
Repetition of key words. Use one common theme per page content. e.g. 'design explanation' and printing explanation' on another, as what is done on naturalgravity.co.za. Must be readable and interesting to the human eye. Do not write for the robots to see you, they won't. Optimize your site by writing interesting content.
- Page Title Tags:
Correct title tags per page and not for the overall site. I have No idea how to do that... cant DIY, ask your programmer/web designer.
In order for you to do-it-yourself, follow these basic rules and apply it to your website in order to increase ranking and credibility in the search engines.
Why would I want more people to view my site, you ask?
1) The more visitors that you have coming to your site, the more credibility the 'robots' (or bots), pic up and therefor increase your page ranking (a cycle).
2) More visitors, more chance of a purchase on line.
3) Attract people that are searching for exactly or very close to, that which your website is offering.
4) If searchers find immediately what they looking for, they will investigate your site and not just exit it immediately.
5) Sales and marketing of your product
Yes, you can Do-It-Yourself search engine optimization. This is not rocket science, if you start with the simple steps.
Wednesday
What not to say in a meeting!
I have had a couple of them, and in my humble opinion I could give a few tips that clearly I and others learned the hard way, on what NOT TO SAY!
If Only I new before and thats why I am making this available to you:
1) Don't ask the secretary as you arrive for a meeting what the name of the person you going to speak to is called!
2)Don't tell the person who you meeting, the whole long story, from the minute you woke up... on how you got lost on the way to him/her and thats why you late.
3) Don't agree with everything that the other says and does, to the point that you get caught out i.e,' Don't you just love pork bellies', 'Yes me to, I mean noooooo'
4) 'I made these delicious cookies for you last week, but then you canceled our meeting, but here you go anyway'.
5)I would love to retire right now, hate working with people actually.
6) 'X, Y Z, examine your zip, its undone'.
7) 'Sorry I'm late, I have been up the whole night with a funny tummy.'
8) Come in, with an open comedy evening approach, and start things off with a knock knock joke
Have you had any meeting blunders... forget about it! we all have, we just live and learn and hopefully not make a fool of our selves again. :)
If Only I new before and thats why I am making this available to you:
1) Don't ask the secretary as you arrive for a meeting what the name of the person you going to speak to is called!
2)Don't tell the person who you meeting, the whole long story, from the minute you woke up... on how you got lost on the way to him/her and thats why you late.
3) Don't agree with everything that the other says and does, to the point that you get caught out i.e,' Don't you just love pork bellies', 'Yes me to, I mean noooooo'
4) 'I made these delicious cookies for you last week, but then you canceled our meeting, but here you go anyway'.
5)I would love to retire right now, hate working with people actually.
6) 'X, Y Z, examine your zip, its undone'.
7) 'Sorry I'm late, I have been up the whole night with a funny tummy.'
8) Come in, with an open comedy evening approach, and start things off with a knock knock joke
Have you had any meeting blunders... forget about it! we all have, we just live and learn and hopefully not make a fool of our selves again. :)
10 percent Inspiration and 90 percent perspiration
10 percent Inspiration and 90 percent perspiration
Do you believe this statement is true?
I don't to be honest. I don't believe that you need to perspire in order to succeed in business!
I believe the art is having a great business idea and then putting all the inspiration and energy into that idea.
There are so many inspirational people out there, that have done such amazing things. For example my last posting on Eric Edmeades.
So don't sweat it, just Do it!
Do you believe this statement is true?
I don't to be honest. I don't believe that you need to perspire in order to succeed in business!
I believe the art is having a great business idea and then putting all the inspiration and energy into that idea.
There are so many inspirational people out there, that have done such amazing things. For example my last posting on Eric Edmeades.
So don't sweat it, just Do it!
Monday
Inspiration - Eric Edmeades
Think...
sometimes I need to take note of some of my GREAT advise (don't mind saying so myself)and put it into practice. I have been learning so much about myself and my business that it has truly been riveting.
There is so much to do and I... the Marketing Gru lol:) , is feeling a bit stuck. I think its not because I don't know what to do. Honestly I think its because I am scared to fail.
Now I know that this is not only a feeling that I have. Many people do not even start their own businesses for this reason. The fear of the unknown and what will happen if everything goes wrong.
I was up bright and early Sunday morning (Oh yes) and attended a lecture by Eric Edmeades. Professional speaking, corporate consulting and persoal coaching.
What an interesting guy and very real, down to earth and friendly. Love humble people whether they have it all or nothing (and pretend to have everything). He told us a bit about his background and how he got into public speaking. Although I new that end of the day he was not only selling himself but a product 2(XL), I truly was not falling asleep for the 1st hour and a half I was there, after which I had a major play-full tennis game on.
Amazing how seem people have the energy and enthusiasm to motivate others as a full time job. Guess, if your proud of yourself why not tell all?
A little tip that I learn't from Eric for inspiration, for those of you that need Luck to be on your side in business...
L - Location
U - Understanding
C - Connections
K - Knowledge
Feeling the inspiration flow once again.
Have a great week!!
sometimes I need to take note of some of my GREAT advise (don't mind saying so myself)and put it into practice. I have been learning so much about myself and my business that it has truly been riveting.
There is so much to do and I... the Marketing Gru lol:) , is feeling a bit stuck. I think its not because I don't know what to do. Honestly I think its because I am scared to fail.
Now I know that this is not only a feeling that I have. Many people do not even start their own businesses for this reason. The fear of the unknown and what will happen if everything goes wrong.
I was up bright and early Sunday morning (Oh yes) and attended a lecture by Eric Edmeades. Professional speaking, corporate consulting and persoal coaching.
What an interesting guy and very real, down to earth and friendly. Love humble people whether they have it all or nothing (and pretend to have everything). He told us a bit about his background and how he got into public speaking. Although I new that end of the day he was not only selling himself but a product 2(XL), I truly was not falling asleep for the 1st hour and a half I was there, after which I had a major play-full tennis game on.
Amazing how seem people have the energy and enthusiasm to motivate others as a full time job. Guess, if your proud of yourself why not tell all?
A little tip that I learn't from Eric for inspiration, for those of you that need Luck to be on your side in business...
L - Location
U - Understanding
C - Connections
K - Knowledge
Feeling the inspiration flow once again.
Have a great week!!
Tuesday
Confidence and a Clear Business Plan
It has been some time since I last wrote. I have been playing with many marketing ideas to identify A Clear Business Plan.
We know it's obvious to have a plan, describing how to tackle the planning and implementation of any business, but as I have discovered this is not as easy as I have once made out it to be.
In order for me to know where my business is going, there is one thing that can make all the difference... confidence!
From writing the plan to telling others about it and asking the professionals questions,can takes time, guts and courage. There are so many other people that have been in the marketing industry for a lot longer than I have, but I can't admit to knowing less, only need to know what I know!
Where to start?
- Set out clear definable objectives for your business
- Identify key market players and competitors
- Master a new topic in your industry, to create a competitive advantage for yourself
- Be confident in your abilities
A Clear Business Plan is highlighted below that is easy to follow and apply:
This is not a comprehensive plan… but its gets you started!!
1. Name of your business –
Easy to Remember
Can you get the .co.za or the .com
Can your customer spell the name your name easily ( when searching in phone book or online)
Create a name that you are confident you like
2. Vision –
What your big dream?
Number of employees
Offices
Business structure
Add lots of details…
Confidence is needed Knowing that your business is going to be a Big success.
After watching ‘The secret’, I realized, your dreams are only as big as your imagination allows it to be.
3. Mission statement –
This defines what your business does, what activities it performs and what is unique about it
that stands out from your competitors (A competitive advantage- love that word)
4. Goals and objectives
5. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) -
by analyzing these characteristics in your business, you will get a
clearer idea of what it will take for you to not only to survive
but also prosper.
Acknowledge what you strengths and Weaknesses are to make you more confident.
- Build on your strengths
- Determine weaknesses
- Take advantage of opportunities
- Side Step
threats
6. Strategic action plan –
This is the most critical step of
your business plan, because without it, your business will not
get off the ground. This should include your sales and marketing
strategies.
7. Financial plan
Lay out what capital is going into the business.
Conclusion:
Now that you have a Clear Business Plan, make it a part of
you by knowing and understanding it clearly. Build upon it
continuously and refer to it often, so you remain on track to
building a profitable business.
I am very fortunate to have so many confident people around me. They have been an inspiration and driving force in my life.
We all do have the power to lead by others examples and take a plunge at what we think could be Great!
We know it's obvious to have a plan, describing how to tackle the planning and implementation of any business, but as I have discovered this is not as easy as I have once made out it to be.
In order for me to know where my business is going, there is one thing that can make all the difference... confidence!
From writing the plan to telling others about it and asking the professionals questions,can takes time, guts and courage. There are so many other people that have been in the marketing industry for a lot longer than I have, but I can't admit to knowing less, only need to know what I know!
Where to start?
- Set out clear definable objectives for your business
- Identify key market players and competitors
- Master a new topic in your industry, to create a competitive advantage for yourself
- Be confident in your abilities
A Clear Business Plan is highlighted below that is easy to follow and apply:
This is not a comprehensive plan… but its gets you started!!
1. Name of your business –
Easy to Remember
Can you get the .co.za or the .com
Can your customer spell the name your name easily ( when searching in phone book or online)
Create a name that you are confident you like
2. Vision –
What your big dream?
Number of employees
Offices
Business structure
Add lots of details…
Confidence is needed Knowing that your business is going to be a Big success.
After watching ‘The secret’, I realized, your dreams are only as big as your imagination allows it to be.
3. Mission statement –
This defines what your business does, what activities it performs and what is unique about it
that stands out from your competitors (A competitive advantage- love that word)
4. Goals and objectives
5. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) -
by analyzing these characteristics in your business, you will get a
clearer idea of what it will take for you to not only to survive
but also prosper.
Acknowledge what you strengths and Weaknesses are to make you more confident.
- Build on your strengths
- Determine weaknesses
- Take advantage of opportunities
- Side Step
threats
6. Strategic action plan –
This is the most critical step of
your business plan, because without it, your business will not
get off the ground. This should include your sales and marketing
strategies.
7. Financial plan
Lay out what capital is going into the business.
Conclusion:
Now that you have a Clear Business Plan, make it a part of
you by knowing and understanding it clearly. Build upon it
continuously and refer to it often, so you remain on track to
building a profitable business.
I am very fortunate to have so many confident people around me. They have been an inspiration and driving force in my life.
We all do have the power to lead by others examples and take a plunge at what we think could be Great!
Monday
Marketing success
Having had a great last week, with a fabulous new client and there for I had a a great weekend. A marketing success.
Was so nice to think positively about new ventures and ready to take them head on.
A wise person once told me that you should pretend to be more wealthy than what you are, to attract money, and no one knows what you have in your bank account. i think it could hold true.
I am now venturing into the very interesting world of internet marketing.
But must go to bed or don't think Ill wake up for my new adventure tomorrow!
Was so nice to think positively about new ventures and ready to take them head on.
A wise person once told me that you should pretend to be more wealthy than what you are, to attract money, and no one knows what you have in your bank account. i think it could hold true.
I am now venturing into the very interesting world of internet marketing.
But must go to bed or don't think Ill wake up for my new adventure tomorrow!
Thursday
Valentines Day!!!!!
Its Valentines Day. A day for cupid to show himself and shoot you in the heart... ahhh my boyfriend is coming back from a trip to be here today so Im happy:)
Happy Valentines day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
PS: a money making scheme, but who cares
So spend lots of money on your loved ones... an excuse to shop who needs one!!
Happy Valentines day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
PS: a money making scheme, but who cares
So spend lots of money on your loved ones... an excuse to shop who needs one!!
Monday
Big Propsal
Woke up bright and early this morn to do a major proposal for a client. Bit nervous about it all, but just going with the flow and not saying no to any opportunities...
will decide if thats a good or a bad thing. Should one focus or grab at whatever experience one can get.
I'm sure that there is more that one school of thought on that one.
Must get ready to write, wish me luck.
will decide if thats a good or a bad thing. Should one focus or grab at whatever experience one can get.
I'm sure that there is more that one school of thought on that one.
Must get ready to write, wish me luck.
Friday
Weekend Review
Thought that this was quite fun. Interesting to see how my rating was so thought, you might be interested to see yours.
Have a great weekend!
Have a great weekend!
Lets101 Quizzes - online fun quiz
Thursday
The coffee club
There are a bunch of Techi, marketing and design people who get together, discuss and network.
Was on my way to the coffee shop, parked my car and got out. Thought, let me check how much cash I have on me. Realizing I left my whole wallet behind. could not go into the coffee shop and not even order a coffee. If i was going with someone else I would a asked for a coffee... hmm but not the people Im trying to net work with.
So there is always next time!!
Was on my way to the coffee shop, parked my car and got out. Thought, let me check how much cash I have on me. Realizing I left my whole wallet behind. could not go into the coffee shop and not even order a coffee. If i was going with someone else I would a asked for a coffee... hmm but not the people Im trying to net work with.
So there is always next time!!
Wednesday
The Perfect Jackpot
Casino's come in all shapes and sizes. Flashy ones and shy ones. Those that promise the world and deliver nothing of what they say. Most importantly why not have a directory of those casino's that you don't need a deposit or give you the option if you don't mind paying one.
Doing my every day research and looking around for helpful info, online casino blue book, the perfect site that can give you details of many online casino's. If you enjoy gambling responsibly then why fuss and make a tough search.This casino site is ranked by bonus size, payout percentage, customer service, game features, numbers of games, software graphics, and ease of use. Choose your preference of gaming such as Baccarat , Roulette, Craps, Poker,Slots and more.
If you having problems with an existing casino or having trouble choosing one, the gambling">online casino blue book can help.
Now thats great customer service.
Online Casino Bluebook
Doing my every day research and looking around for helpful info, online casino blue book, the perfect site that can give you details of many online casino's. If you enjoy gambling responsibly then why fuss and make a tough search.This casino site is ranked by bonus size, payout percentage, customer service, game features, numbers of games, software graphics, and ease of use. Choose your preference of gaming such as Baccarat , Roulette, Craps, Poker,Slots and more.
If you having problems with an existing casino or having trouble choosing one, the gambling">online casino blue book can help.
Now thats great customer service.
Online Casino Bluebook
Bad Service
Sometimes the most simple things are some how not what we get from companies that we give our business to.
Bad Service:
In an era when service, relationship building, personalization and custom made is so well spoke of, why is it still so hard for some businesses to provide service and with a smile at that.
I just don't understand why, when calling for a quotation.. no one gets back to me with an answer. I forced to call them again and again waiting for the answer so that the business can provide me with the opportunity to make Them money!
Service especially in the Service Industry is something we should strive to achieve. Ever heard of the idea, 'to exceed the customers expectations.' My expectations would be exceeded if I simply got a call back!
So here is a little tip from me to this great expanse on earth:
The customer may not always be right, but the customer is still always king
Bad Service:
In an era when service, relationship building, personalization and custom made is so well spoke of, why is it still so hard for some businesses to provide service and with a smile at that.
I just don't understand why, when calling for a quotation.. no one gets back to me with an answer. I forced to call them again and again waiting for the answer so that the business can provide me with the opportunity to make Them money!
Service especially in the Service Industry is something we should strive to achieve. Ever heard of the idea, 'to exceed the customers expectations.' My expectations would be exceeded if I simply got a call back!
So here is a little tip from me to this great expanse on earth:
The customer may not always be right, but the customer is still always king
So much to do and So little time
The four Day week- sounds bliss
Dont working hard, but working cleverly smart!
There are many obstacles in achieving this Four Day Week regime, but I have researched it is possible.
How to make it happen:
Working a little less sounds amazing, but if we don't have enough time in 5 days how on earth are we going to manage four days?
Remember: there will always be more work to do... so its about self restraint and keeping to a set program.
a). Whether or not you are self-employed
b). If you sell products or services
It doesn’t really matter how you do it, as long as you limit your work week.I like the idea of working from 8 am - 5pm. Truth is when you have a few thngs to do during the day, i tend to then work later.. so tough one.
Anyway, love the idea, but think that in my case and my business Natural Gravity, its going to take time before I can act on the Four Day Week.
Dont working hard, but working cleverly smart!
There are many obstacles in achieving this Four Day Week regime, but I have researched it is possible.
How to make it happen:
Working a little less sounds amazing, but if we don't have enough time in 5 days how on earth are we going to manage four days?
Remember: there will always be more work to do... so its about self restraint and keeping to a set program.
a). Whether or not you are self-employed
b). If you sell products or services
It doesn’t really matter how you do it, as long as you limit your work week.I like the idea of working from 8 am - 5pm. Truth is when you have a few thngs to do during the day, i tend to then work later.. so tough one.
Anyway, love the idea, but think that in my case and my business Natural Gravity, its going to take time before I can act on the Four Day Week.
Pay Per Post - Rearing to go
Wow, I have just joined up with a fantastic company called Pay Per Post.
Who would have thought that someone would have come up with this very clever way to increase traffic to others websites and then also give those like me, whom are mad about blogging, the opportunity to do it and earn money! Great!
My story is an exciting one. After working for a boss for many years and somehow never quite felt like I was making a difference, I recently decided to start my own Marketing Company. So many feelings of nervousness and fear, happiness and drive have all taken over me. What a great opportunity to go for my dreams. Not having to go into the office but actually earn my own money and have my own time.
My very sweet and supportive friend then said that I should join Pay Per Post to earn a nice amount while I’m getting my business up and going. It had been so easy. I had already been writing about my marketing experience and knowledge on my blog, so decided to submit it for approval and see if it makes the cut. And it DID. I new that my decision to resign and go for my dreams was the right thing because everything was falling into place.
Being apart of the Pay Per Post community is going to give me the financial boost to get my business up and going. I still have so much to learn and am sure that I will make friends with others that have had much more experience than me on ‘Pay Per Post’.
I’m rearing to go and very excited!!
Monday
Dressed for success- Body Language
In order to portray confidence in this tough superficial world, Im off to get a semi make over.
Not quite, just touch up...girls stuff.
Ill be ready, 'dressed for success' by the end of the day.
Ready to take on new clients for another day at the office.
Part of any marketing process is selling the right idea to the consumer.
We can identify many tips to 'dress for success':
Firtsly a deffinition:
Body language is a broad term for forms of nonverbal communication using body movements
Voluntary body language refers to movement, gestures and poses intentionally made by a person
Involuntary body language quite often takes the form ohttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.bold.gif
insert bold tagsf facial expression. often shows emotion.
1. Eye Contact
2. Facial Gestures
3. Torso and hand Behavior
4. Body movement and dress
There is a lot of a research and detail on this subject. I have majored in a degree in communication and still have only touched on this very complex phenomenon.
One can get a great deal of info from the net.We need to be more conscious about the actions that we do and expressions that we make in everyday and business life
Not quite, just touch up...girls stuff.
Ill be ready, 'dressed for success' by the end of the day.
Ready to take on new clients for another day at the office.
Part of any marketing process is selling the right idea to the consumer.
We can identify many tips to 'dress for success':
Firtsly a deffinition:
Body language is a broad term for forms of nonverbal communication using body movements
Voluntary body language refers to movement, gestures and poses intentionally made by a person
Involuntary body language quite often takes the form ohttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.bold.gif
insert bold tagsf facial expression. often shows emotion.
1. Eye Contact
2. Facial Gestures
3. Torso and hand Behavior
4. Body movement and dress
There is a lot of a research and detail on this subject. I have majored in a degree in communication and still have only touched on this very complex phenomenon.
One can get a great deal of info from the net.We need to be more conscious about the actions that we do and expressions that we make in everyday and business life
Sunday
Marketng Meating
Was that meating and greating or just meeting?
lol making myself laugh now!
All this dressing up for a meeting makes me feel like lamb
lol making myself laugh now!
All this dressing up for a meeting makes me feel like lamb
Friday
Wednesday
misconceptions about marketing research
Misconceptions about marketing research :
First, many think that a small business should only initiate marketing research when it is making a profit. One should consider marketing research when the company needs all the help it can. Research can provide the information thats your business needs to get up and running.
Sometimes managers believe that unless research provides a complete description of a situation it is of no value.
Marketing research can help with both big and small decisions.
Don't always rely on survey information, sometimes the real information is at your back door for small business opportunities.
The misconception is that market research costs big money but this is not always the case.
Another misconception is that you can not do research unless you are a sophisticated researcher. You don't need a Ph.D. in marketing or statistics to do marketing research. It is mostly just hard work. Consult a good marketing research text and/or bring in a consultant for advice and then just dig in and do it.
First, many think that a small business should only initiate marketing research when it is making a profit. One should consider marketing research when the company needs all the help it can. Research can provide the information thats your business needs to get up and running.
Sometimes managers believe that unless research provides a complete description of a situation it is of no value.
Marketing research can help with both big and small decisions.
Don't always rely on survey information, sometimes the real information is at your back door for small business opportunities.
The misconception is that market research costs big money but this is not always the case.
Another misconception is that you can not do research unless you are a sophisticated researcher. You don't need a Ph.D. in marketing or statistics to do marketing research. It is mostly just hard work. Consult a good marketing research text and/or bring in a consultant for advice and then just dig in and do it.
Friday
Spag bowl marketing
I have just coined the term Spag Bowl Marketing.
Similar to the marketing mix consisting of the four P's. Spag Bowl Marketing is short for 'Spaghetti Bolonaise' Marketing. Mix many ingrediants into the dish to create the right consistancy and taste.
We don't want to add to much oil- Weak marketing campaigns that are easily forgotten or slip off the top of ones awareness.
Not to much salt- To cover up what he consumer is actually getting. Makes it taste a bit to good to be true.
Just the right amount of spice- And you can gt the consumers pallete wet and anting to try it!
I think this could be the next BIG THANG!
Similar to the marketing mix consisting of the four P's. Spag Bowl Marketing is short for 'Spaghetti Bolonaise' Marketing. Mix many ingrediants into the dish to create the right consistancy and taste.
We don't want to add to much oil- Weak marketing campaigns that are easily forgotten or slip off the top of ones awareness.
Not to much salt- To cover up what he consumer is actually getting. Makes it taste a bit to good to be true.
Just the right amount of spice- And you can gt the consumers pallete wet and anting to try it!
I think this could be the next BIG THANG!
Tuesday
The Marketing Concept
The Marketing Concept comprises of the following:
1) Consumer understanding
2) Create value in the eyes of the customer
3) Communicating your value to your target market
4) Consumer can easily find and buy the product
This above Marketing concept can be used only when you have done all the right Market Research
1) Consumer understanding
2) Create value in the eyes of the customer
3) Communicating your value to your target market
4) Consumer can easily find and buy the product
This above Marketing concept can be used only when you have done all the right Market Research
Sunday
SEO Marketing- Learning Post
SEO Marketing is something that i have been learning slowly for some time now.
until I get more clued up, I'm not wanting to much but will keep you updated on my thoughts on matching traditional off line marketing and online marketing together to achieve goals on a Marketing campaign.
until I get more clued up, I'm not wanting to much but will keep you updated on my thoughts on matching traditional off line marketing and online marketing together to achieve goals on a Marketing campaign.
Saturday
Post Card Advertising
Post card advertising:
Find them in your your favourite stores or in your favorite restaurant. Post Cards are a personal way to market many kinds of design agencies, clubs, pubs.
Get your name out there.
Find them in your your favourite stores or in your favorite restaurant. Post Cards are a personal way to market many kinds of design agencies, clubs, pubs.
Get your name out there.
Tuesday
Food for Thought
With all this health food talk going around...
I have bought myself a new health shake. Yes, i know promises all those things like health, weight loss and that rejuvenating feeling.
Will keep you all updated,if there product works. and if it does... will tell you which marketing gimmick I fell for.
I have bought myself a new health shake. Yes, i know promises all those things like health, weight loss and that rejuvenating feeling.
Will keep you all updated,if there product works. and if it does... will tell you which marketing gimmick I fell for.
Sunday
Marketing is a Process
Marketing
... is not a once off thing, it's a process. It has a beginning, a middle, but never an end, this is what makes it a process. You can improve it, perfect it, change it, even stop it for a second or two it. But you never stop it completely.
... is not a once off thing, it's a process. It has a beginning, a middle, but never an end, this is what makes it a process. You can improve it, perfect it, change it, even stop it for a second or two it. But you never stop it completely.
Friday
Busy Day - and Smoke Free
What a day, busy busy.
I have been up since 6am and let me tell you thats an early one for me. Busy working on a few projects at my local Star Bucks. Love the coffee and chilled environment.
When I lift my head, feel like I have a 'fly on the wall' look at customer behaviour all around me.
And isn't it great that we no longer have smoking in any restaurants/ coffee shops. Never new how The Big Bosses could pull that one off. Now I cant imagine life any other way.
Have to carry on with things.
I have been up since 6am and let me tell you thats an early one for me. Busy working on a few projects at my local Star Bucks. Love the coffee and chilled environment.
When I lift my head, feel like I have a 'fly on the wall' look at customer behaviour all around me.
And isn't it great that we no longer have smoking in any restaurants/ coffee shops. Never new how The Big Bosses could pull that one off. Now I cant imagine life any other way.
Have to carry on with things.
Tuesday
Demographics
Have i not talked about demographics... yet?
I have been writing for some time and a major part of marketing any business is identifying what the demographics there are of a particular market in order to custom fit the marketing campaign.
Lets get a pro definition of Demographics:
Demographics refers to selected population characteristics as used in government, marketing or opinion research, or the demographic profiles used in such research.(Wikipedia)
So there you have it. A select group of characteristic's.
Its actually funny to look around and see how many different demographics you can find at work or in your local mall.Such different people and ideals all living around us. what I may think is normal maybe very different to what someone else thinks is normal.
Each of these demographics would have a particular product marketed to them differently.
The trick of course is to find something that these very unique demographics have in common.
I have been writing for some time and a major part of marketing any business is identifying what the demographics there are of a particular market in order to custom fit the marketing campaign.
Lets get a pro definition of Demographics:
Demographics refers to selected population characteristics as used in government, marketing or opinion research, or the demographic profiles used in such research.(Wikipedia)
So there you have it. A select group of characteristic's.
Its actually funny to look around and see how many different demographics you can find at work or in your local mall.Such different people and ideals all living around us. what I may think is normal maybe very different to what someone else thinks is normal.
Each of these demographics would have a particular product marketed to them differently.
The trick of course is to find something that these very unique demographics have in common.
Saturday
Hospitality Efficiency Cards For Take-away Outlets:
Hospitality Cards:
I have included another handy hint on how to increase the service in your business i.e. Handy cashier cards.
Place ‘Business Card size’ Customer Card by the tills – re-enforcing the steps that the cashiers must take! We all know that our staff are the face of the business. they let the customer know about:
Promotions
In-store stuff e.g. give-aways
Suggestive selling
Let your cashiers MARKET your business... this is how
1. Welcome with a Smile
2. Friendly Comment
3. Would you like to place you order
4. Suggestive Sell- make a friendly comment on the customers choice.
5. Verify Order
6. Answer Customer Questions
7. Dining In/ Dining out
8. Check order & Enquire if any other condiments are needed
9. Invite to Order again
10. Enquire if any other help is needed
I have included another handy hint on how to increase the service in your business i.e. Handy cashier cards.
Place ‘Business Card size’ Customer Card by the tills – re-enforcing the steps that the cashiers must take! We all know that our staff are the face of the business. they let the customer know about:
Promotions
In-store stuff e.g. give-aways
Suggestive selling
Let your cashiers MARKET your business... this is how
1. Welcome with a Smile
2. Friendly Comment
3. Would you like to place you order
4. Suggestive Sell- make a friendly comment on the customers choice.
5. Verify Order
6. Answer Customer Questions
7. Dining In/ Dining out
8. Check order & Enquire if any other condiments are needed
9. Invite to Order again
10. Enquire if any other help is needed
Friday
Building Retail Turnover – a checklist
Building Retail Turnover – a checklist
Action plan for
* Customer Service
* Sales Generation
* Promotions
* Signage
* Presentation
* Housekeeping
* Staff Management and Staff Deployment
* Casuals
* Security
* Administration
Ensure the following area's have a detailed plan in place for each that can create order in your business.
Action plan for
* Customer Service
* Sales Generation
* Promotions
* Signage
* Presentation
* Housekeeping
* Staff Management and Staff Deployment
* Casuals
* Security
* Administration
Ensure the following area's have a detailed plan in place for each that can create order in your business.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
