tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85579447932909967762024-02-20T05:34:41.985-05:00Minute to MarketNeed to improve your bottom line? Limited budget? Limited Time? Got a minute?<br> Our researched-based marketing tips can help.<br> Need help implementing tips? Contact us! We can help!Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-27137844275840920732014-08-24T13:57:00.001-04:002015-01-31T08:19:16.240-05:00Best Sales Tip : Stop Selling! [ #LinkedIn Inspired]<h2>
Sales Tips - How Do You Sell Your "Pen"? </h2>
Effective sales is filling the needs of people. This post was inspired by Victoria P.
Negotiation Consultant, She Negotiates Consulting and Training.<br />
Victoria wrote an insightful post about the <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20140816152832-11435719-leonardo-dicaprio-sells-you-his-pen?anchorTime=1408380697713&deepLinkCommentId=5907176786726252544&trk=hb_ntf_MEGAPHONE_REPLY_TOP_LEVEL_COMMENT" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">difficulties of "selling" a judge on an argument. </a>You may not realize it, but every day most people are involved in sales.<br />
In Victoria's article, she cites the example of from "The Wolf of Wall Street" where the character played by Leonardo DiCaprio challenges would be sales students to "Sell Me This Pen" at 2:38.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oWoSzwqV1tmSdy6Yjb2dH0IyJnaKTNLODjKWNWFLQ6McD9MMnDGcc2P7KZWp24aTki-PlShA0-iFaeoswaDiATRq3HkwU0Kf_nV-vFZPuz8Dg6NSGTb0FzIqrGa91qsdvs2-gQzm3Bw/s1600/Sell+Me+This+Pen+YouTube+Play+.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oWoSzwqV1tmSdy6Yjb2dH0IyJnaKTNLODjKWNWFLQ6McD9MMnDGcc2P7KZWp24aTki-PlShA0-iFaeoswaDiATRq3HkwU0Kf_nV-vFZPuz8Dg6NSGTb0FzIqrGa91qsdvs2-gQzm3Bw/s1600/Sell+Me+This+Pen+YouTube+Play+.png" height="181" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Wolf of Wall Street - Sell Me This PEn<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="174" src="//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/YmfPT47awUg" width="310"></iframe><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whether selling a pen, or a history lesson, people need to realize approach the question from the right end. If you focus on "selling" you're dead in the water from the get go. When presented with a product or service that you need to market there are several questions that can help you get past that "slick sales" attitude that may be defeating you. Just like these "salesmen".</div>
<h3>
Sales Tips - Stop "Selling" Your Pen</h3>
These questions may help you become more of a authentic customer <b><i>service </i></b>representative and move from the "Slick sales" model.<br />
<ol>
<li>What is the unique selling position of this product or service? </li>
<li>What are the consequences of not having this product or service? </li>
<li>What are the rewards of having this product or service? </li>
<li>Who needs this?</li>
<li>Why do they need it? </li>
<li>How are they part of a similar group in needing this? </li>
</ol>
For Victoria, perhaps selling a judge on her argument, may include a cost-benefit analysis.<br />
<ul>
<li>Why is it important this person remains in the community or off the streets? </li>
<li>How does your argument meet the needs of the judge, and society? </li>
<li>What is unique about this case? </li>
</ul>
<h3>
Selling Your "Pen" - Awakening The Need: 3 Steps </h3>
After discovering how truly awesome your solution is for others, you may need to help others see how truly awesome your solution is too. Do you have the world's best pen? Well so what? Awakening the realization of need is an important marketing skill.<br />
An effective 3 part marketing technique includes:<br />
<ol>
<li>Utilizing 3 questions to raise dissatisfaction with the status quo. </li>
<li>A reassuring statement assuring the person they are not alone in their dissatisfaction. </li>
<li>Presenting your unique solution. </li>
</ol>
The pen?<br />
One suggested opener : Do you have a pen on you?<br />
<br />
Want to chat more about sales, marketing, or my passion for helping small businesses get found locally online?<br />
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=77844729&authType=name&authToken=QAJa&locale=en_US&pvs=pp&trk=ppro_viewmore" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LinkUp with me on LinkedIn - Suzanne Sholer.</a><br />
<i>Wishing you success,</i><br />
<i><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+SuzanneSholerSocMedia/about" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">+Suzanne</a></i><br />
<hr />
<b>About Suzanne Sholer</b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrrFuzr1BKp2zK8NINu8zXsP9hq-5105LvAciRLMQlNLfTKn0ZDuLGID_ilqt4O6dasdJ2wRdWKGmCphgacJG5NoTyWGA0Qv-MFztThMTptqCPNcPfWloL1L7vLRxk762Oi8IZifnuIRN/s1600/suzanne-sholer+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="image Suzanne Sholer BA B.Ed Social Media Marketing Enthusiast" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrrFuzr1BKp2zK8NINu8zXsP9hq-5105LvAciRLMQlNLfTKn0ZDuLGID_ilqt4O6dasdJ2wRdWKGmCphgacJG5NoTyWGA0Qv-MFztThMTptqCPNcPfWloL1L7vLRxk762Oi8IZifnuIRN/s1600/suzanne-sholer+(1).jpg" title=" Suzanne Sholer BA B.Ed Offers Social Media Solutions" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suzanne Sholer BA B.Ed<br />
Social Media Geek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As a daughter of serial entrepreneurs, I gained an appreciation for small business marketing. Add to that ;a passion for empowering others, a B.A. B.Ed with undergrad courses in psychology of marketing gained through media studies, a fascination with Marketing Stats and you get <b>Minute to Market</b> - My online file of Marketing notes.<br />
Need help implementing this tip or have another marketing conundrum? Drop a confidential comment with your email address on any post.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-3100815402254415692014-03-18T12:37:00.000-04:002015-01-31T08:25:36.524-05:00 Study Reveals 3 Searcher Mindsets! Help Your Clients Find You! <h2>
Using Searcher Mindset Gives Greater Ad ROI! </h2>
<h3>
Effective Advertising:Meets Searchers Needs</h3>
<strong>Study Review - Chart :Key Points from Mindsets of Search Study</strong> <br />
Advertising online, or offline is a waste of money, unless it creates results. Searchers - whether they are searching through yellow pages, or using a search engine, are looking for an authoritative answer to their question. About.com suggests:<strong><em> 'The right kind of advertising could be the expertise people are looking for.'</em></strong><br />
Is your advertising effectively showcasing your expertise? This review looks at the <strong><em>Mindsets of Search Study</em></strong>, and includes a handy reference chart with key points, plus examples that can help your business have a greater ROI from your advertising dollar using the About.com/ Latitude study findings released September 29, 2011.<br />
What are the key takeaways from the About.com advertising study?<br />
<a name='more'></a>Here are the 3 Search Mindsets your business may want to tap into.<br />
<h3>
3 Search Mindsets Seeking 3 Specific Expertise Types [Chart]</h3>
<h4>
Consumer Attitude Shifts towards Ads and Experts</h4>
The About.com/Latitude Research report shows Consumers see ads as helpful when they:<br />
<ul>
<li>‘work with the information source to help you get what you need’, </li>
<li>'focus on teaching something’: </li>
<li>are relevant to their search; or </li>
<li>point to ‘great options, deals or discounts’.</li>
</ul>
Also opinions of close allies with life experience, and crowd sourcing, is now seen as credible expertise.<br />
So it boils down to <b>presenting the right type of expertise, in the right context, presented in the right manner.</b> The chart below provides a summary with suggestions and examples to help you maximize your advertising ROI.<br />
Not getting the desired response from your ads? These 3 Key Takeaways, could help!<br />
<br />
<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="width: 400px;"> <tbody>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="112"><div align="center">
Mindset</div>
</td> <td valign="top" width="77"><div align="center">
Answer Sought</div>
</td> <td valign="top" width="73"><div align="center">
Expertise Wanted</div>
</td> <td valign="top" width="138"><div align="center">
Make Your Ad Connect</div>
</td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="112"><strong>Answer Me 46%<br />i.e </strong>What is the name of..<br />
Where is…<br />
’Urgent’ searches<br />
<br />
• Top Categories: <br />
1. Entertainment <br />
2. Fashion/ Beauty/ Style</td> <td valign="top" width="77">‘Just give me the facts<br />
<br />
- Short to the point answers</td> <td valign="top" width="73">Experts less important <br />
<br />
Delivery is the focus</td> <td valign="top" width="138">- Keep product benefits front and centre.<br />
<br />
-ie Decrease Speaking Jitters! Get 3 Quick Easy Tips Now! </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="112"><strong>Inspire Me</strong><br />
<strong>28%<br /><em>i.e</em></strong> Where should we spend our honeymoon?<br />
-Spare time fun “browsy” search -Looking for surprises, have open minds and want to be led.<br />
<br />
• Top Categories: <br />
1. Travel<br />
2. Home & Garden</td> <td valign="top" width="77">‘“Excite and inspire me about the things I love –take me away!’</td> <td valign="top" width="73">*Allies and <br />
Social Sources</td> <td valign="top" width="138">Provide content that inspires creativity and offers endless choices<br />
<br />
Utilize G + Facebook ‘Likes’<br />
and Reviews to reinforce your expertise<br />
<br />
Verbs Discover,Imagine,Explore,Savour<br />
<br />
ie Re-Discover the great outdoors! Get up-close and personal with nature. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Trail. <br />
Free Wheelchair accessible Trail Guide Omemee </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="112"><div align="left">
<strong>Educate Me 26%<br /><em>i.e </em></strong>Should I renovate my home before I sell it?</div>
<div align="left">
• Top Categories <br />
1. Health<br />
2. Finance</div>
</td> <td valign="top" width="77">‘I' want details to help me weigh the pros and cons.’<br />
<br />
Content with in-depth information and resources</td> <td valign="top" width="73">Credentialed Experts, <br />
Some *Allies</td> <td valign="top" width="138">Use informative messages providing opportunities to learn more about the topic from multiple angles<br />
<br />
ie.Which Renos do Top Realtors Advise NOT Doing Before Selling? Free Database filled with tips,reports and ideas help your home sell.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
What Was NOT in the About.com /Latitude Study Press Release</h3>
Read the Full pdf advertising report at <a href="http://www.advertiseonabout.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/3-Mindsets-of-Search-PR.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Open About.com Mindsets of Search pdf in a new window">About.com: Mindsets of Search</a><br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="color: red;">Want your business highlighted in an example in our reviews? <a href="http://minutetomarket.blogspot.ca/p/contact-us_18.html">Contact us for details</a> on how to get a live link to your business!</span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="color: red;">Want more tips to help you get a better bang from your marketing time? Sign up for email updates from Minute to Market, to receive statistics-based marketing advice to help you save time and money, live the life you want to live!</span></i></b><br />
<h6>
About The About Group :The About Group comprises the Web sites About.com, ConsumerSearch.com and CalorieCount.com. About.com is a valuable platform for content that helps users solve the large and small needs of everyday life. ConsumerSearch.com analyzes expert and user-generated consumer product reviews and recommends the best products to purchase based on the findings. CalorieCount.com is an online resource that helps users solve the everyday challenges of losing weight and living a healthy lifestyle</h6>
<h6>
About Latitude : For nearly two decades, Latitude Research has helped leading media companies anticipate and take advantage of new technologies – and associated shifts in audience behaviors – to deliver new, engaging forms of content and advertising. With deep expertise in advertising effectiveness research, Latitude works regularly with clients such as ESPN, Food Network,MTV Networks, NBC Universal, Yahoo! and About.com to measure the impact of multi-platform (web, mobile, and TV) campaigns and guide future campaign development</h6>
<hr />
<b>About Suzanne Sholer</b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrrFuzr1BKp2zK8NINu8zXsP9hq-5105LvAciRLMQlNLfTKn0ZDuLGID_ilqt4O6dasdJ2wRdWKGmCphgacJG5NoTyWGA0Qv-MFztThMTptqCPNcPfWloL1L7vLRxk762Oi8IZifnuIRN/s1600/suzanne-sholer+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="image Suzanne Sholer BA B.Ed Social Media Marketing Enthusiast" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrrFuzr1BKp2zK8NINu8zXsP9hq-5105LvAciRLMQlNLfTKn0ZDuLGID_ilqt4O6dasdJ2wRdWKGmCphgacJG5NoTyWGA0Qv-MFztThMTptqCPNcPfWloL1L7vLRxk762Oi8IZifnuIRN/s1600/suzanne-sholer+(1).jpg" title=" Suzanne Sholer BA B.Ed Offers Social Media Solutions" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suzanne Sholer BA B.Ed<br />
Social Media Geek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As a daughter of serial entrepreneurs, I gained an appreciation for small business marketing. Add to that ;a passion for empowering others, a B.A. B.Ed with undergrad courses in psychology of marketing gained through media studies, a fascination with Marketing Stats and you get <b>Minute to Market</b> - My online file of Marketing notes.<br />
Need help implementing this tip or have another marketing conundrum? Drop a confidential comment with your email address on any post.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-61390288259765138152013-02-04T14:00:00.000-05:002013-02-04T14:00:05.422-05:00Offline advertising? Use Your URL Wisely!<h2>
Enquiro Study Shows URL Advertising Importance!</h2>
<b>Why you need a URL in your offline advertising. </b><br />
Enquiro found, like it or not, potential customers seeing your ad will go looking for you online. Are you making it easy for new clients to find you online? Check the tips from Enquiero below to help you get the biggest return on your investment.<br />
<b>How Enquiro Conducted its Study</b><br />
Enquiro showed participants a TV commercial. In an overlay at the bottom of the frame, each participant saw one of te following::<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The company name (no call to action)</li>
<li>A phone number</li>
<li>A vanity URL</li>
</ul>
<h3>
Vanity URLs Not Recommended for Promos!</h3>
After watching the commercial, each participant was asked what they’d do to follow up - more than one choice was allowed. <br />
<b>Visiting the website,</b> and <b>searching for the company online</b>, were the top two activities, regardless of the call to action. <br />
Surprisingly, <b>participants were even more likely to visit the website when there was no call to action.</b> <b><i>However, they told Enquiero the wrong website!</i></b> The client was using a vanity URL the participants couldn't remember or guess – instead, the URL they guessed at would take them to the site’s homepage, where there was no information relevant to the commercial. If customers are looking for you online, you'll want them to find the information they’re seeking.<br />
<h3>
Url Usage Tips from Enquiero</h3>
Enquiero advised their client: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Use URLs and a phone number in their commercials</li>
<li>Use folders in their URLs such as www.company.com/promo rather than vanity URLs www.buyfromcompany.com</li>
<li>Reinforce the call to action by including 'call 1-800-555-1234 or visit company.com/promo' in the commercial voice over</li>
</ul>
<br />
Since potential customers are going to try and find you online, how many businesses are actually making it easy for potential customers to accomplish that goal?<br />
<h3>
UK Businesses Missing Potential Opportunities. Are You? </h3>
A recent study from Nominet looked at how URLs were used in £40 million worth of print and TV advertising in the UK. Although the UK is pretty sophisticated in online marketing, only two thirds of print and TV advertising had a URL. When you break that apart, 83% of newspaper advertising had a URL, while only 61% of TV advertising did. Tens of millions of British pounds of advertising could be more effective.<br />
<br />
Are you throwing money away by not including a URL in your advertising? <br />
Do you use URLs in your offline advertising? Why or why not?<br />
Let us know what you think by commenting below. <br />
<br />
About Enquiro:<br />
<br />
Enquiro now part of Mediative, a Yellow Pages Group company is based in Kelowna, BC. Enquiro, a global leader in research, does fascinating studies about consumer behaviour. Enquiro first launched as Searchengineposition.com in 1999. Gord Hotchkiss, now Mediative’s SVP has led the company since its founding Enquiro has a significant profile in the search marketing industry, publishing <a href="http://www.enquiro.com/marketing-insight.php">white papers, blogs, webinars,</a> and <a href="http://www.enquiro.com/case-studies/">case studies</a>. Company founders Gord Hotchkiss and Bill Barnes are regular speakers at leading industry events worldwide, and Gord’s book <a href="http://results.mediative.ca/buyersphere-download.html">The BuyerSphere Project</a>, has generated considerable discussion on the topic of how B2B purchasing works in a digital marketplace.<br />
<br />
This article is based on:YrHelper Infonuthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15764242355179044602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-33762797177373939302013-02-04T07:43:00.001-05:002013-02-04T07:43:02.231-05:00Words Hold Power: Which Words Will you Choose Today?Language structures thought.<br />
<br />
If you appreciate the message in this video, please share this post.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="182" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jnwQYwAnud4?rel=0" width="300"></iframe><br />
<div class="mobile-photo">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfViP7SJtuva4qCzkha9ZLRa75cn-4yeC2KkPVoeF4KzbYFf93OJetGlVxI1tqDh1zk_6mxLKGeAYEe8dhLKo2qktOUxGJAlwaxYbramyL45rnRbqBpMj_koZLzIHRoIajkWhOGa6OtH4/s1600/photo-730944.JPG"><img alt="Image Screen shot from The Power of Words" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5745669515321605490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfViP7SJtuva4qCzkha9ZLRa75cn-4yeC2KkPVoeF4KzbYFf93OJetGlVxI1tqDh1zk_6mxLKGeAYEe8dhLKo2qktOUxGJAlwaxYbramyL45rnRbqBpMj_koZLzIHRoIajkWhOGa6OtH4/s320/photo-730944.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
About This Video:<br />
Purple Feather Content Marketing video, poignantly depicts a scene from David Ogilvy's book : 'Olgilvy on Marketing'. The Power of Words is not a new concept, but the manner in which Purple Feather Content Marketing conveyed the message,by altering a couple of words,the lighting, music and use of a woman wearing dark glasses all add up to an amazing message which brought them millions of views. Purple Feather Content Marketing just posted a new video last week showing how you can use the power of words to make a difference in even your own life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-41899204588562813852012-05-20T09:45:00.013-04:002012-05-20T10:13:01.541-04:00Small Biz? Good News! You Benefit from Data Boom! IBM Study Synopsis!<h2>IBM Study Results Show Only 26% Tracking Blogs</h2><h2><br />
While an IBM study shows most top marketing execs recognize the of Social Media marsketing, they are unprepared for the number crunching needed to effectively analyze and use the immense amount of data they receive from customer input. Big business is bogged down in their customer input. Small businesses can excell in social media marketing with shorter customer response time,and more individualized solutions. Four main challenges face Chief Marketing Officers:<br />
<br />
<ol><li>Data explosion</li>
<li>Channel and device choices</li>
<li>Lack of Influence</li>
<li>Shifting demographics</li>
</ol><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="182" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KZDMNU9q5DY?rel=0" width="300"></iframe></h2><b><i>Read on to learn more about this study, and how small business may have an advantage over big businesss as large corporations become mired in immense amounts of data.</i></b><a name='more'></a><br />
<h2>What IBM Studied</h2><br />
An IBM survey of over 1,700 chief marketing officers from 64 countries and 19 industries revealed the majority of <b><i>the world’s top marketing executives recognize the importance of Social Media</i></b>, but feel unprepared for the number crunching involved in harnessing the immense amount of data involved to successfully respond to consumer input. Herein may lie a great opportunity for small businesses. <br />
<br />
<h2>CMO's Digital Challenge:</h2>An IBM study of more than 1,700 chief marketing officers revealed most CMOs feel underprepared to manage the impact of key changes in the marketing arena. While 82 percent say they plan to increase their use of social media over the next three to five years, only 26 percent are currently tracking blogs to shape their marketing strategies. The study points to Four Main Challenges facing Chief Marketing Officers:<br />
<br />
<ol><li>Data explosion: </li>
<li>Channel and device choices: </li>
<li>Shifting demographics: </li>
<li>Lack of Influence </li>
</ol><blockquote><blockquote>'The inflection point created by social media, represents a permanent change in the nature of customer relationships,' said Carolyn Heller Baird, CRM research lead for the IBM Institute for Business Value and the global director of the study. “Approximately 90 percent of all the real-time information being created today is unstructured data. CMOs who successfully harness this new source of insight will be in a strong position to increase revenues, reinvent their customer relationships and build new brand value.” </blockquote><br />
Customers are sharing their experiences widely online, giving them more control and influence over brands. This shift in the balance of power from organizations to their customers requires new marketing approaches, tools and skills in order to stay competitive. CMOs are aware of this changing landscape, but are struggling to respond. More than 50 percent of CMOs think they are underprepared to manage key market forces – from social media to greater customer collaboration and influence – indicating that they will have to make fundamental changes to traditional methods of brand and product marketing. Baird likened marketers who underestimate the impact of social media to those who were slow to view the Internet as a new and powerful platform for commerce. Like the rise of e-business more than a decade ago, the radical embrace of social media by all customer demographic categories represents an opportunity for marketers to drive increased revenue, brand value and to reinvent the nature of the relationship between enterprises and the buyers of their offerings. Marketers who establish a culture receptive to deriving insight from social media will be far better prepared to anticipate future shifts in markets and technology. While they identify customer intimacy as a top priority, and recognize the impact of real-time data supplementing traditional methods of channel marketing and gathering market feedback, most CMOs say they remain mired in 20th century approaches. Eighty-percent or more of the CMOs surveyed are still focusing primarily on traditional sources of information such as market research and competitive benchmarking, and 68 percent rely on sales campaign analysis to make strategic decisions. Managing the Four Challenges Collectively, the study findings point to four key challenges that CMOs everywhere are confronting: the explosion of data, social media, channel and device choices and shifting demographics will be pervasive, universal game changers for their marketing organizations over the next three to five years. But a large majority of CMOs feel unprepared to manage their impact. <br />
<br />
<h4>Data explosion:Analysis Challenges</h4>Every day we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data – so much that 90 percent of the world’s data today has been created in the last two years alone. The increasing volume, variety and velocity of data available from new digital sources like social networks, in addition to traditional sources such as sales data and market research, tops the list of CMO challenges. The difficulty is how to analyze these vast quantities of data to extract the meaningful insights, and use them effectively to improve products, services and the customer experience. <br />
<br />
<h4>Channel and Device Choices:</h4>The growing number of new marketing channels and devices, from smart phones to tablets, is quickly becoming a priority for CMOs. Mobile commerce is expected to reach $31 billion by 2016, representing a compound annual growth rate of 39 percent from 2011 to 2016. Meanwhile, the tablet market is expected to reach nearly 70 million units worldwide by the end of this year, growing to 294 million units by 2015. <br />
<br />
<h3>Social platforms: </h3>Social media enables anyone to become a publisher, broadcaster and critic. Facebook has more than 750 million active users, with the average user posting 90 pieces of content a month. Twitter users send about 140 million tweets a day. And YouTube’s 490 million users upload more video content in a 60-day period than the three major U.S. television networks created in 60 years. Marketers are using social platforms to communicate – with 56 percent of CMOs viewing social media as a key engagement channel – but they still struggle with capturing valuable customer insight from the unstructured data that customers and potential customers produce. <br />
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<h4>Shifting demographics:</h4>New global markets and the influx of younger generations with different patterns of information access and consumption are changing the face of the marketplace. In India, as one example, the middle class is expected to soar from roughly 5 percent of the population to more than 40 percent in the next two decades. Marketers who have historically focused on affluent Indian consumers must adapt their strategies to market to this emerging middle class. In the United States, marketing executives must respond to the aging baby boomer generation and growing Hispanic population. <br />
<br />
<h4>Lack of Influence </h4>Today’s CMOs have to cover more ground than ever before. They have to manage more data from disparate sources, understand and engage with more empowered customers, adopt and adapt to more sophisticated tools and technologies – while being more financially accountable to their organizations. In fact, 63 percent of CMOs believe return on investment (ROI) on marketing spend will be the most important measure of their success by 2015. However, only 44 percent feel fully prepared to be held accountable for marketing ROI. Most CMOs have not traditionally been expected to provide hard financial evidence of their ROI. But given the current economic volatility and pressure to be profitable, organizations can no longer afford to write a blank check for their marketing initiatives. CMOs recognize they now need to quantify the value they bring to the business, be it from investing in advertising, new technologies or any other activity. This increasing emphasis on ROI also reflects the scrutiny the marketing function is currently attracting, itself a reflection of the function’s growing prominence. Today’s CMOs are in much the same position as chief financial officers (CFOs) were a decade ago, when the CFO’s role was evolving from guardian of the purse strings to strategic business adviser. If CMOs are to be held responsible for the marketing returns they deliver, they must also have significant influence over all “Four Ps”: promotion, products, place and price. The study found that this is often not the case. CMOs say they exert a strong influence over promotional activities such as advertising, external communications and social media initiatives. But, in general, they play a smaller role in shaping the other three Ps. Less than half of the CMOs surveyed have much sway over key parts of the pricing process, and less than half have much impact on new product development or channel selection. <br />
<h4>Meeting New Challenges Requires Increasing Knowledge</h4>To meet these new challenges, CMOs must boost their own digital, technological and financial proficiency – but many seem surprisingly reticent in this respect. When asked which attributes they will need to be personally successful over the next three to five years, only 28 percent said technological competence, 25 percent said social media expertise and 16 percent said financial acumen. <br />
<br />
<h5>About the <a href=http://www-03.ibm.com/press/us/en/pressrelease/35633.wss target=new rel=nofollow>Global CMO Study</a>: The 2011 IBM Global Chief Marketing Officer Study is IBM’s first study of CMOs — and the fifteenth in the ongoing series of C-suite Studies developed by the IBM Institute for Business Value. Between February and June 2011, IBM met face to face with 1,734 CMOs in 19 industries and 64 countries to better understand their goals and the challenges they confront. The respondents came from a wide variety of organizations, ranging from 48 of the top 100 brands listed in the 2010 Interbrand rankings to enterprises with a primarily local profile.</h5></blockquote><br />
<h2>Can Your Small Business Benefit From This IBM Study?</h2>Small business can successfully meet challenges which bog down larger businesses.<br />
<ol><li>Data explosion</li>
Small businesses generally have less data to contend with, therefore they are able to respond more quickly,with unique personalized solutions for their clients. Emphasize that difference in your marketing.Use your blog to tell how you were happy to be able to respond quickly with a unique individualized solution.
<li>Channel and device choices</li>
Make sure your site is mobile friendly. Borrow a cell phone, take a moblie device for a test drive on your site. Flash is not mobile friendky, neither are PDFs. If you are using <a href=http://minutetomarket.blogspot.ca/2011/02/bloggerfree-website-builderhosting-tool.html>Blogger</a> to host your site, a few clicks will have your site mobile friendly in seconds. However, iframes and flash can decrease the ability of mobile users to access your content. Using Feedburner feed optimizer can help ensure most browsers can read your updates as well. <h3>Social platforms: </h3>Small business owners skilled at offline small talk with customers will do well to bring that skill to engage with potential customers online. Social media is not just a list of products and services. Engage with others. Offer something of value. Become familiar with social media marketing by attending free webinars,or watching YouTube videos on the topic. Having a bit of knowledge can help steer you clear of Sicial Media Sharks. Remember - there are tonnes of free webinars available, just because you attend a free webinars,does not mean you need to purchase anything from that company. Read Twitter Tips Facebook Tips, and other Social media marketing advice columns to help make the most of your time, and turn followers into your brand ambassadors.
<li>Lack of Influence</li>
Here small businesses have little problem,unless you are a franchisee ,small business owners have greater control over decisions regarding pricing, placement, product, and promotion. Deciding can be challenging. I recommend joining groups on linked in with other small businesses in several fields, watching what others use to gain a good return on their investment of time. Opt for free versions of various APPS and take them for a spin before laying out hard-earned cash. Follow similar small businesses on Twitter, Facebook,G+, and Pinterest.
<li>Shifting Demographics</li>
Smart small businesses do well adapting to changing demographics. Looking at local demographics,provincial,and national demographics,as well as using Google Analytics to examine who is visiting your online presence is important. What needs are there to be filled? What 'if onlys' are you hearing? A growing population of seniors has different needs than those of young muns. Can people enlarge the font on your site? Do you have an automatic Google translate widget? Many online stores adapt to the demographics of their customers by offering the option of auto-listing most popular items,and also listing companion items people purchased. You can do this in your brick and mortar business as well. </ol><br />
How are you using the findings of this report to increase your business? What challenges have you overcome? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-58854950518647624252011-10-26T00:49:00.001-04:002011-11-02T14:50:46.260-04:00Christmas Marketing? Apple Products Top Youth Tech Picks!<h2>Apple Brands, Oreo, Hersheys, - Top Youth Choices!</h2>Harris Poll Youth EquiTrend® study showed Apple products as the clear youth favourites in computers tablets,and mobile phones.While this is an American study, results for <a href="http://www.canadapost.ca/shopper/apple/brand/30" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Opens Apple canada products s in a new window">Apple Canada</a> would probably be closely aligned, especially since com score study earlier this year showed the iPhone4 having the biggest portion of the Canadian cell phone market. Want to cash in on holiday marketing? <b><i>This newest Harris Poll shows not only what to market, but where,and how. How can you utilize this info?</i></b><br />
Aligning marketing with top youth brands, is a choice wise marketers make/ Whether selling soap, soup, or software, aligning your product with the top picks, may push you ahead on Black Friday. What other brands will youth be yeaning for? <b><i>Read this latest Harris Interactive press release to help you plan your holiday marketing strategy.</i></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<h2>Apple Brands Dominate Youth Market: Top Computer, Tablet and Mobile Phone</h2><h3>Top 13 Youth Brands of the Year; Oreo Cookies and Hershey's Milk Chocolate Candy Bars are among the favorites! </h3>NEW YORK, N.Y. - October 25, 2011 - With young Americans expected to spend $211 billion in 2012, knowing which brands they favor will help corporate America prepare for the upcoming holiday season. A key strategic planning tool at their disposal is the 2012 Harris Poll Youth EquiTrend® study, by Harris Interactive. This annual study benchmarks the brands that America's youth prefer and those that have the ability to dominate their industries' youth market share. <br />
The 2012 Harris Poll Youth EquiTrend study measures brand equity as an outcome of familiarity, quality, and purchase consideration among Americans, ages eight to 24. <br />
<blockquote>"Youth of today have spending power and they also have loyalty to brands. Some of this comes from their parents, but they also make their own decisions," said Regina A. Corso, Senior Vice President for Youth and Education Research at Harris Interactive. "Brands who tap into this loyalty when a consumer is a tween, and nurture it through the teen years, will have an extremely loyal customer by the time the customer is a young adult. Companies need to remember that consumers do not magically appear at age 18." </blockquote>In this critical sales ramp-up for the holiday gift-giving season, when technology prevails and computers, tablets, and mobile phones are at the top of wish lists, Apple brands are ranked highest among Americans, ages 13-24, in their respective categories. Apple Computers, iPads, and iPhones are the highest ranked Computers, Tablets, and Mobile Phones brands, and are followed by Hewlett Packard, Motorola Xoom, and HTC, correspondingly. <br />
<blockquote>Jeni Lee Chapman, Executive Vice President of Harris' Brand and Communication Consulting practice shares, "This is very good news for Apple and indicates that their masterbrand is very strong. To have this kind of significant edge among 13-24 year olds signifies that Apple has built a powerful equity base among their customers of today and their customers of tomorrow." She continues, "Brands often struggle to maintain relevancy among different generations. This data shows that this is not going to be an issue for Apple." </blockquote>And, while eight to 24 year olds have varied interests, certain comfort foods, like cookies and candy, are timeless. For example: Oreo Cookies and Hershey's Milk Chocolate Candy Bars are each highest ranked in their respective categories, and sweet treat and cookie brands receive some of the highest equity scores among those surveyed. <br />
<h3>Category Overview</h3><h4>Food & Beverage</h4><ul><li><strong>Sweet Treats:</strong> Hershey's Milk Chocolate Candy Bars is the highest ranked brand, followed by Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Hershey's Kisses.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Cereals:</strong> Cheerios is the highest ranked brand, followed by Kellogg's Frosted Flakes and Cinnamon Toast Crunch.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Cookies:</strong> Oreo Cookies is the highest ranked brand, followed by three Chips Ahoy cookies brands - Chips Ahoy, Chewy Chips Ahoy and Chunky Chips Ahoy.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Sodas:</strong> Sprite is the highest ranked brand, followed by Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Fruit Juices</strong>: Minute Maid is the highest ranked brand, followed by Tropicana and Florida's Natural Refrigerated Orange Juice.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Fruit Flavored Drinks:</strong> Capri Sun is the highest ranked brand, followed by KoolAid.</li>
</ul><h4>Media </h4><ul><li><strong>Broadcast TV Networks:</strong> ABC is the highest ranked brand, followed by Fox Television Network and CBS.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Kids TV Programming:</strong> Nickelodeon is the highest ranked brand, followed by Disney Channel and Cartoon Network.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Social Media:</strong> YouTube.com is the highest ranked brand, followed by Facebook.com.</li>
</ul><h4>Gaming, Technology, & Telecom</h4><ul><li><strong>Computers:</strong> Apple Computers is the highest ranked brand, followed by Hewlett-Packard Computers and Sony Computers<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Computer Tablets</strong>: iPad is the highest ranked brand, followed by Motorola Xoom and BlackBerry PlayBook<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Mobile Phones:</strong> iPhone is the highest ranked brand, followed by HTC Phones and Samsung Phones<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Gaming Platforms</strong>: Nintendo Wii is the highest ranked brand, followed by Sony Playstation 3 and Nintendo DS.</li>
</ul>Table 1 <br />
<b><u>HARRIS POLL YOUTH EQUITREND® BRANDS OF THE YEAR </u></b><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="width: 400px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"><strong><u>Segment</u> </strong></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><strong><u>Category*</u></strong> </td> <td valign="top" width="133"><strong><u>Brand of the Year</u></strong> </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"><strong><em>Food & Beverage</em></strong> </td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Sweet Treats</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Hershey's Milk Chocolate Candy Bars </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Breakfast Cereals</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Cheerios Cereal </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Cookies</em></td> <td valign="top" width="133">Oreo Cookies </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Sodas (among 13-24 year olds)</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Sprite </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Fruit Flavored Drinks (among 8-18 year olds)</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Capri Sun </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Fruit Juices</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Minute Maid Juices</td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"><strong><em>Media </em></strong></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Broadcast TV Networks</em></td> <td valign="top" width="133">ABC </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Kids TV Programming (among 8-12 year olds)</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Nickelodeon</td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Social Media (among 13-24 year olds)</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">YouTube.com</td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"><strong><em>Gaming, Technology, & Telecom</em></strong></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Computers (among 13-24 year olds)</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Apple Computers </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Computer Tablets (among 13-24 year olds)</em></td> <td valign="top" width="133">Apple iPad </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Mobile Phones (among 13-24 year olds)</em> </td> <td valign="top" width="133">Apple iPhone</td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="135"></td> <td valign="top" width="131"><em>Gaming Platforms</em></td> <td valign="top" width="133">Nintendo Wii </td></tr>
</tbody></table>* Unless otherwise indicated, brands were rated among all youth, 8-24 years old. <br />
<h4>Methodology </h4>The Youth EquiTrend® study evaluates measures including: Equity, Emotional Connection, and Brand Advocacy. The keystone to the program is Equity, which provides an understanding of a brand's overall strength and is determined by a calculation of Familiarity, Quality, and Purchase Consideration. <br />
This year's Harris Poll Youth EquiTrend® study was conducted online among 5,077 U.S. consumers ages 8-24 in August 2011. A total of 121 brands were rated among 8-12 year olds and 167 brands among 13-24 year olds. Each 8-12 year old respondent was asked to rate a total of 15 randomly selected brands and each 13-24 year old respondent was asked to rate a total of 22 randomly selected brands. Each brand received at least 130 ratings. Data were weighted to be representative of the entire U.S. population of consumers ages 8-24 on the basis of age sex, education, urbanicity (8-17 year olds), race/ethnicity, region, parental education (8-17 year olds), and income (18-24 year olds), and data from respondents ages 18 and over were also weighted for their propensity to be online. <br />
These statements conform to the principles of disclosure of the National Council on Public Polls. <br />
<ul><li>The Youth EquiTrend® study results disclosed in this release may not be used for advertising, marketing or promotional purposes without the prior written consent of Harris Interactive.<br />
</li>
<li>Product and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.</li>
</ul>For a complete listing of all the brands covered in the study, contact Dagney Cassella at 212-539-9600 or dcassella@harrisinteractive.com. <br />
<h5><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">About Harris Interactive </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small; font-weight: normal;">Harris Interactive is one of the world's leading custom market research firms, leveraging research, technology, and business acumen to transform relevant insight into actionable foresight. Known widely for the Harris Poll and for pioneering innovative research methodologies, Harris offers expertise in a wide range of industries including healthcare, technology, public affairs, energy, telecommunications, financial services, insurance, media, retail, restaurant, and consumer package goods. Serving clients in over 215 countries and territories through our North American and European offices and a network of independent market research firms, Harris specializes in delivering research solutions that help us - and our clients - stay ahead of what's next. For more information, please visit www.harrisinteractive.com.</span></h5><h3><span style="font-size: x-small;">How to Use this Study for Your Business</span></h3><span style="font-size: small;">So, is your mind filled with great cross-promos for your products? Here’s an exercise that may help:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Often we are so close to our own problem that we can’t see the forest for the trees.This exercise can help the creative ideas start flowing. Try thinking of a colleague’s products in a sector opposite to yours, and coming up with three ways they could use the study to promote their products. Share this article with them, along with your ideas. Bookmark this post, and subscribe to the comments to tap into some great brainstorm ideas others will share on this topic. What great cross-promos of unlikely products have you seen in the past? Please share your ideas on this topic in the comments below.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Note This article is sponsored trough Blogsvertize. Please read my blog policies for details,or see details on Blogsvertize.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong><em>Suzanne</em></strong></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-75148427492680531792011-08-29T10:56:00.000-04:002011-08-29T10:56:18.695-04:00QR Code Study Reveals Important Marketing Tips!<h2>Where Do You Display Your QR Code?</h2><a href="http://minutetomarket.blogspot.com/p/contact-us.html" title="Image Minute to Market Contact us QR Code"><img align="left" alt="Minute to Market Contact Us orig" border="0" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvwuo2YU3ODJyk6mptvarqip2mAXgPD5XJuVIiWe9SWq9r87ehrukCnm-8YEwvIQTE_BOefUbpOwXls8f-DTntXsHFx0nl8p_4JgB7OclVqYZZqM5lk07-MYVAkZyMFDmXm9JP2tVmAZU/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px;" title="Minute to Market Contact Us orig" width="104" /></a> QR codes are appearing on everything from scarves to wedding cakes, but who scans them? August 12th, comScore, released mobile QR and bar code scanning study results from its comScore MobiLens service.<br />
Mark Donovan, comScore senior vice president of mobile points out the importance of this study for business:'QR codes demonstrate just one of the ways in which mobile marketing can effectively be integrated into existing media and marketing campaigns to help reach desired consumer segments,' Donovan added: 'For marketers, understanding which consumer segments scan QR codes, the source and location of these scans, and the resulting information delivered, is crucial in developing and deploying campaigns that successfully utilize QR codes to further brand engagement.' The comScore study yields surprising results,about who scans 2D codes,where they scan the codes,and where most scanned codes are posted, How can your business profit from the comScore study? <br />
<h3>How Do You Use QR Codes?</h3><a name='more'></a><br />
QR Code is a square 2-D symbol developed by Denso Wave,Japan, which enables a larger amount of information to be easily interpreted by scanner equipment than a typical bar code. QR, or 'Quick Response', codes are readable by smartphones, QR readers, and computers with webcams. QR codes can create a quick link to online information, or even dial a phone number. QR Code is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED. However, in much the same way as people often use the brand 'Kleenex' for ‘facial tissue,’ or 'Google' for ‘online search’, the term 'QR code' is quickly becoming a common term to mean any type of scanned 2-D code, resulting in a quick response action. <br />
<h3>comScore Mobile Study - Synopsis</h3>Most people in both the comScore studies of the US and EU5 markets scanned QR codes from the comfort of their own homes. In addition, in comScore's American study, they found14 million mobile U.S. users scanned a QR or bar code on their mobile device, in the month of June alone. <b>Most people scanning codes in the U.S. were male, aged 18-34 with a household income of $100k or above. </b>Users were most likely to use their SmartPhones while at home, or in a store, to scan codes in newspapers / magazines or on product packaging. So what does this mean for your business? <br />
<h3>SmartPhone Code Scanning Practices and Business Implications</h3>While the number of people using SmartPhones to scan codes only represents, 6.2 percent of the total mobile audience, 14 million people is a significant gross number. If you choose to create a QR code, your advertising budget may be best used in placing your code in print ads in newspapers, magazines, or on product packaging. While this study might lead people to only use codes for products appealing to male SmartPhone users, the press release does not tell us the number of scans conducted on behalf of a female companion. In addition, the study does not tell us which incentives were incorporated, to induce people to scan the codes - such as the contest currently being run by a major phone manufacturer. Simply having a QR code does not mean people will take the time to scan it, but placing it in the right location, with a relevant incentive, could get your phone ringing more frequently, increase the page views of your website, or even increase product sales.<br />
For a free QR code for your business, and a list of resources for creating your own QR codes, sign up for our Minute to Market enews.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lTnFwv_xQFM/Tkhec_Z-EFI/AAAAAAAAAgw/0t6ynEDicHI/s1600-h/Minute%252520to%252520Market%252520red%25255B6%25255D.png"><img align="right" alt="Minute to Market red" border="0" height="79" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2IDcoA8Zzoodp_F0dAZjzle93wcN9r9HFLe7O_wA2snkIuHYBT44nUxCSlDO4sIh_UwE3O_zjHq1LZbjyPDVXAspZkGMrqD05grT0MOFdOUdDsBXAaO-i-omkaLy7X9tY1_-tL3HMqs/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px;" title="Minute to Market red" width="79" /></a>For business, or product-specific statistics-based marketing advice for effectively implementing your QR code <a href="http://minutetomarket.blogspot.com/p/contact-us.html" title="Contact Minute to Market">contact us.</a> <br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://www.comscoredatamine.com/2011/08/in-eu5-more-than-half-of-qr-codes-are-scanned-while-at-home/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Open somScore's EU5 press realease in a new window.">In EU5, More Than Half of QR Codes Are Scanned While at Home</a><br />
<a href="http://www.comscore.com/Press_Events/Press_Releases/2011/8/14_Million_Americans_Scanned_QR_or_Bar_Codes_on_their_Mobile_Phones_in_June_2011" target="_blank" title="Open comScure's US press release in a new window.">14 Million Americans Scanned QR or Bar Codes on their Mobile Phones in June 2011</a><br />
<a href="http://www.denso-wave.com/qrcode/index-e.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Open Denso Wave QR code in a new window">QR code.com</a> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-14193972027293286882011-05-18T11:17:00.001-04:002011-05-28T14:06:18.788-04:00Marketing Your Highest Payoff Action<h2>Get Results! Consistently Market Your HPA</h2>How well are you presenting your call to action? What is your Highest Payoff action? How can you market it effectively? <br />
Need help? Get a free Quick Blink assessment of how well you are marketing your HPA , email <a href="http://scr.im/webwizard">Suzanne Sholer </a>Use “Free Quick Blink HPA” in the subject line.<br />
Applying the following business building tips, can help you get better results from your advertising materials, and day to day interactions.<br />
<h2>Create and Implement an effective Marketing Message Using your HPA<a name='more'></a></h2><h3>First:Understand What Consumers Want</h3>In Karen Dodd’s article,”<strong>Always <u>H</u>ave a Call to Action”</strong> in Entrepreneurial Woman, she points out:”Consumers want <em>want</em> easy-to-understand, bite-sized marketing messages and most of all,<em><strong> </strong></em><em><strong>Consumers want be told what to do next.” </strong></em><br />
Billions of dollars have been wasted on marketing campaigns,which have left consumers wondering:-“O.K. What<strong><em> is</em></strong> this about?” Unfortunately,those promos are missing a compelling marketing message<br />
<h3><strong><u>Crafting a Compelling Marketing Message</u></strong></h3><strong><u>3 Parts of a Compelling Marketing Message</u></strong> Karen Dodd advises-truly compelling marketing messages do three things : <br />
<ul><li>Ask critical attention grabbing questions.<br />
</li>
<li>Reassure consumers there <em>is</em> a solution for their situation.<br />
</li>
<li>Tell consumers exactly what they need to do next. </li>
</ul><strong><u><em>How it Works</em></u></strong> <br />
<ol><li><strong>Targeted questioning resonates with your ideal client</strong>, forcing them to confront what is not working in their life. Questions like: “<em>are you: frustrated by, struggling with, embarrassed about…?”</em> remind them of their “pain.” </li>
<li><strong>Reassurance </strong><strong>further <strong>engages readers</strong></strong>. We all want to think we are experiencing the same thing as others, but want to discover a better way. In effect, you're saying to prospective clients, “you're normal, there is a way out of your situation and it's not your fault that you haven't been shown the solution yet.” </li>
<li><strong>Presenting the Call to Action</strong> Tell them what you want them to do next. Direct them to take your “highest payoff action” (HPA). Your HPA is the action that gives the highest likelihood of a prospect becoming a paying client. </li>
</ol><h3>Determining Your HPA</h3><strong>What is your HPA?</strong> Call for a complimentary consultation? Fill in info ,and email it to you? Register for a free teleclass you're offering? Decide which action will be easiest for potential clients to take, and give you the ability to maintain contact with your new potential client,<br />
<h3><strong>Using Your HPA </strong></h3>Ms. Dodd emphasizes- <strong>Put a clear, compelling “call to action” on all your prospecting material: </strong>your website, ezine, brochures, business card, special offers and mailings. If your call to action is missing from any of your marketing messages, you're wasting time, energy and money. People often think of a website as only a means to establish an online presence, not realizing it can get them new business, It <em>shouldn't </em>be that way. Karen says, “All too often, (I see) entrepreneurs sacrificing <em>utility</em> for beauty. …beautiful marketing doesn't get you new clients.” <br />
<hr /><em><strong>Take Action! Karen Dodd’s 3 Steps for Maximizing HPA </strong></em><br />
<strong>1. Take a really critical look at your website:</strong> (yes, open a new tab now!) Does the very first page remind visitors of their discomfort through compelling questions, and tell them <em>exactly </em>what to do next? People visit your website for a reason. Get their attention and help them solve their problems. You're not being negative, nor hitting them over the head, you’re saving them time! <br />
<strong>2. Look at your business card:</strong> Is it simply a calling card with contact information, or does it actively brings you business? <strong><em>Two must haves for your business card:</em></strong> <br />
<ul><li><strong>Free Special Offer</strong> in exchange for their name and email,<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Minimum 3 "pull marketing questions,"</strong> and the action they need to take to get your help</li>
</ul><strong>3. Review your marketing materials:</strong> Is the HPA you want people to take clearly indicated <strong><em>every time</em></strong> you send out a mailing, newsletter, or special announcement,? This is especially critical with mailed marketing pieces, (conversion rates, even with expert marketing, are typically very low). Anything (even a warm friendly update letter) without a clear call to action, is a waste of your time, energy and money. – (Tip: Put your call to action in your email signature.) <br />
<strong><u>Ms Dodd Summarizes </u></strong>"If you made an in-person sales call then didn't ask for their business or tell them the next step in the process, <strong><em>wouldn't you be disrespecting</em></strong> <strong><em>them</em></strong> <strong><em>and their time?</em></strong> When someone is interested enough to stop by our website or look at our marketing materials, they're looking for help and it’s our duty to share how we can help them. It's <em>their</em> responsibility to make their own decision, you're simply making it clear to them how to take the next step, to get the help they came looking for." <br />
<strong>For a Free Quick Blink HPA Assessment</strong> of how well you are marketing your HPA , email Suzanne Sholer at <a href="http://scr.im/webwizard">http://scr.im/webwizard</a> Use “Quick Blink HPA” in your subject line.<br />
<strong>Related Articles: </strong>The original article: <a href="http://www.entrepreneurialwoman.ca/2010/08/16/always-have-a-call-to-action" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Open Entrepreneurial Woman:Always have a Call to Action in a new window.">Entrepreneurial Woman:Always <u>H</u>ave a Call to Action</a><em><strong>.</strong></em>accessed16/08/2010Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09216860103143263681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-29980761402689516642011-03-22T21:13:00.001-04:002011-05-28T14:05:37.547-04:00Sexy How-to video : 7 link sharing tips for Facebook<h2><em>Getting Your Links Facebooked</em></h2><em>Creating content that will be shared in social media is a challenge.I used the following tips to draft my odd title. If you are reading this, please let me know where you found it.</em> <br />
<em>Post adapted from Dan Zarella of <a href="http://www.danzarella.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to open Dan's site in a new window.">DanZarella.com</a>.</em> <br />
<em><a href="http://www.problogger.net/archives/2011/01/14/7-ways-to-get-your-blog-posts-shared-on-facebook/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+ProbloggerHelpingBloggersEarnMoney+(ProBlogger:+Helping+Bloggers+Earn+Money)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to read the original post in a new window.">7 Ways to Get Your Blog Posts Shared On Facebook</a></em> <br />
<em>Writing a blog is a lot like sending a note out in a bottle, and hoping someone, somewhere will read what you wrote. The following stats can help increase your reach.</em> <br />
Want to maximize sharing of your content on Facebook? Here are seven tips that are sure to help.<br />
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<h4>1. Weekends are Prime Facebook time.</h4>Facebook access is blocked by many offices, so story sharing on Facebook tends to be higher over the weekend. Try using a combination of Windows Live Writer and Networkedblogs to schedule your blog posts to auto publish your stories on Saturday and Sunday. <br />
<a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/facebooksharing.gif" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger image in a new window."><img alt="" height="360" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/facebooksharing.gif" title="facebooksharing" width="450" /></a> <br />
<h4>2. Write Explanations</h4>Statistically, “why” and “how” rank high in headlines of most-shared blog posts. Facebook users are interested in the back story behind world news or top results.<a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/sharablewords.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger image in a new window."><img alt="" height="275" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/sharablewords.png" title="sharablewords" width="437" /></a> <br />
<h4>3. Numbers Add Up to Repeated Sharing</h4>Facebookers tend to share posts more often if they include specific numbers. Including digits in your headline can give you an edge.<a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/digits.png" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger image in a new window."><img alt="" height="327" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/digits.png" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="digits" width="418" /></a> <br />
<h4>4. Keep it fun. De-Geek it.</h4>Some of the least shareable words on Facebook are: Google,” “iPhone,” and “Twitter”. While Twitter users tend to be more tech oriented and into discussing apps,, most Facebookers are into social media for relaxation and using social media,not discussing how to do social media. <br />
<a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/leastsaharable.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger image in a new window."><img alt="" height="279" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/leastsaharable.png" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="leastsaharable" width="411" /></a> <br />
<h4>5. Use the KISS Method.</h4>(Keep It Simple Stupid) The easier your piece is to read, the more likely it will be shared on Facebook Facebookers are into flowery language full of adjectives and adverbs either.The same holds true for flowery language replete with adjectives and adverbs. Dan Zarella suggests picking up a copy of <em>The Elements of Style</em> to help refine your writing. <br />
<a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/readability.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger image in a new window."><img alt="" height="332" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/readability.png" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="readability" width="426" /></a> <br />
<h4>6. Sex and Positivity sell</h4>The old adage goes on Facebook as well:sex sells. An article doesn’t necessarily have to be about sex for this to apply, but a double entendre, or hint of something on the naughty side piques interest. Positive articles also better than negative ones. <br />
<a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/linguisticcontent.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger picture of this image showing the linguistic content in a new window."><img alt="" height="281" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/linguisticcontent.png" title="linguisticcontent" width="456" /></a> <br />
<h4>7. Videos Make the Top Lists</h4>Since it’s fairly easy to share videos on Facebook, and a picture says a thousand words, posts with the word “Video” tend to get shred more. Apparently the opposite is true on Twitter. <a href="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/video.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see a larger image in a new window."><img alt="" height="428" src="http://www.problogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/video.png" title="video" width="413" /></a> <br />
What kind of content do you re-share on Facebook? What other tips might you add to this lit? <br />
Be sure to check out the original article by Dan Zarella here. <br />
<em>I’m looking forward to reading The Facebook Marketing Book by Alison Zarrella and her husband Dan. What great Facebook marketing articles or books have you read lately?</em> <br />
<em>Oh are you looking for the sexy video? Leave a comment, and subscribe to the comments, and I’ll let you know when the slide show is posted!</em>Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-27323835318388827632011-03-13T20:19:00.001-04:002011-03-13T20:35:45.696-04:00SEO Tips– Increasing Page Load Speed<h2>Attract More Readers- Speed Up Your Blog </h2>Internet users are not patient. They will not wait around while your blog or site loads. In 2006, Akamai and Jupiter Research identified '4 Seconds' as the maximum length of time web shoppers would wait for a page to load. The following tips can help you have more readers stay on your blog or website and reduce the number of page “bounces” showing in your statistics. Reducing page bounces can go a long way to increasing you search engine ranking. <br />
Blog load speed is critical to attracting more readers to your blog. If your blog takes a long time to load, many readers may leave your blog before they have the chance to read it. Here are a few tips and tricks that will help your blog or site load faster and attract more users:<br />
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<h3>Posts</h3><h4><strong>Go for Quality over Quantity </strong></h4>Keep your main page short sweet and to the point. Make it interesting so people will want to click links on the page to explore more pages inside your site, Be sure your call to action is prominent and easy to find, <br />
<h4><strong>Reduce Main Page Posts</strong></h4><div style="text-align: center;">Your blog's load time can be affected by the amount of information or number of posts you display on your main page. If using a Blogger blog, you can easily edit the number of posts displayed of the main page from the <strong>Settings | Formatting</strong> tab. Blogger recommends displaying 10 or fewer posts on the main page. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6994Uk0t-j-dJZF664hSsvZ2mOk0UBYJpO7rSUUDK7S_yAkwh_HdOF9PJnFO6x2El8jthnoE4MWNpnb8uUGcdr6TYgdblz8ZrAxGgBCqEccYUuhR-I3xQLo0AbFfWF2hLV53LeLY7NUU/s1600/Picture+1.png" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Screen shot showing how to select the number of posts to display. From blogger tips. Click to see a larger poicture."><img height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6994Uk0t-j-dJZF664hSsvZ2mOk0UBYJpO7rSUUDK7S_yAkwh_HdOF9PJnFO6x2El8jthnoE4MWNpnb8uUGcdr6TYgdblz8ZrAxGgBCqEccYUuhR-I3xQLo0AbFfWF2hLV53LeLY7NUU/s1600/Picture+1.png" width="316" /></a> </div><h4>Create Teaser Posts Using Jump Breaks</h4>Showing shortened cliff-hanger versions of each post on your home page using “jump breaks” can increase the amount of time a visitor spends on your first page, by offering them a variety of posts in a faster blink.. Choose an interesting spot to place the “Read More” jump break, to entice the reader to click the link and read the rest of the article. In Blogger,creating a “Read More” jump break is as easy as 1,2,3- as shown in the diagram below:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLteOPi3EBmuiogKbAIT4vdT0mMPByQ_veqf5Q8nbxG4Amkbk7SLhpvgerlAYq5GfwvL1n13wlrj0QY8d9JleQctbldWfWMHlau7tx-0nWrQQDVeC3kKCY6vzqbFQF4_1aW7ptfg6ido/s512/None.jpg" target="_blank" title="Creating a Jump Break.Click to view a larger version of this picture in a new window."><img height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLteOPi3EBmuiogKbAIT4vdT0mMPByQ_veqf5Q8nbxG4Amkbk7SLhpvgerlAYq5GfwvL1n13wlrj0QY8d9JleQctbldWfWMHlau7tx-0nWrQQDVeC3kKCY6vzqbFQF4_1aW7ptfg6ido/s512/None.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="309" /></a> <br />
<h3>Third Party JavaScript and Links</h3>Google/Blogger widgets, are optimized to work with blogger and load faster with Blogger blogs.. However, if you need to use third party JavaScript and links, try putting JavaScript at the bottom of your blog to speed up load time. Similarly, put any 3rd party sidebar JavaScript widgets at the bottom of the sidebar. If you are using Google Adsense, text ads load fastest. <br />
<h3>Images and Media</h3>Text loads fastest. The more images, videos and other multi-media you have on your blog the longer it takes to load. However, images and other multimedia are important to attracting users to your blog, so optimize the load speed of your images and media. Here are a few tips to increase the load speed of your media:<br />
<ul><li>Decrease the size of your images or use thumbnails that link to the full-size image.<br />
</li>
<li>If you use third party images, consider uploading them to Picasa Web Albums via the Blogger post editor. (This is a snap with Windows Live Writer as well)<br />
</li>
<li>Have a large number of images to display? Upload all your images (from a vacation or event) to a <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to go open the picasa web albums site in a new window.">Picasa Web Album</a> and link to the album in your post or sidebar.<br />
</li>
<li>Use <alt> tags on all your images, so people can anticipate what will be in that blank space, while waiting for your photos.</li>
</ul><h3>Other suggestions</h3><ul><li>If you've added any custom CSS to your blog, make sure you put it at the top of the page.<br />
</li>
<li>The most important content of your blog that catches readers attention should load the quickest. To help you identify which items are taking the longest to load use <a href="http://www.numion.com/Stopwatch/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to open the program Stopwatch in a new window.">Stopwatch</a>. To use Stopwatch, enter your blog's URL into the text box and click "Start StopWatch". Stopwatch will then open your blog in a frame and will record the time it takes for everything on your blog to load, including images, videos, widgets, etc. Take note of the items that take the longest to load and modify them appropriately using the suggestions.</li>
</ul>Resources: (accessed March 13,2011)<br />
<a href="http://www.akamai.com/html/about/press/releases/2006/press_110606.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click to see the press release of the time study in a new window.">Press release of time study</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.google.com/support/blogger/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=42394" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to see the original Blogger post in a new window.">Original post from Blogger support inspiring this article.</a> <br />
Learn <a href="http://www.google.com/support/bin/static.py?page=guide.cs&guide=25765&topic=25907&answer=167617" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to learn more about Google products that work well with Blogger. (opens in a new window)">even more ways</a> Google products work together.Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-34686813155233700902011-03-01T12:39:00.001-05:002011-03-01T12:43:15.195-05:0010 Tips for Social Media Marketing<h3>Business Stepping into Social Media Marketing? </h3><h3>10 Tips to Boost bottom line, and Build Brand Buzz</h3><h5>A quick guide for business based on “10 Rules for Social Media Marketing” by Susan Gunelius</h5>Social media marketing can help build your audience and customer base in a dramatically. However, starting without a roadmap can make it a daunting task. <br />
Using these 10 tips will help you better serve your clients,brand and more importantly your bottom line. These 10 tips can help you make the best use of your social media time, rather than flailing around in the dark.<br />
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<strong>1. Listen Up!</strong> We have two ears and one mouth -use the same proportion in social media discourses. Listen to find out what is important <strong>to</strong> your target audience by reading what they have to say, and joining discussions. When you know what people need, then can you create content that adds value instead of clutter. Then keep listening to guage how your work is received. <br />
<strong>2. Focus Makes more Committed Followers</strong><br />
Specializing rather than being a jack-of-all-trades help build a strong brand. In the fast-paced Internet A persona focused on one thing, helps people to categorize and organize their connections. This is one reason some people will develop separate identities for different purposes.<br />
<strong>3. Follower Quality vs Quantity </strong>.While it is possible to purchase followers, having quality online connections who interact with you about your content is better than people who pop in, then disappear. <br />
<strong>4. Be Patient</strong> Content Marketing and Social Media usually require long haul commitments. Rarely does success happen overnight, so stay the course.<br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>5. Quality Content Increases Spread.</strong> When people find content they love, word can spread like wildfire. You will find it referenced by people on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, their own blogs and more. This creates more points of entry for search engines like Google which in turn can grow to hundreds and thousands of potential new clients.<br />
<strong>6. Know your Influencers</strong> Who are the influencers in your market? Find out who has an audience that would be interested in your product or service. Connect with targeted influencers and build relationships with them. Get on their radar with authoritative, interesting ,useful information, so they have something to share with their own followers, putting your business in front of a huge new audience. <br />
<strong>7. Bring Something of Value.</strong> Spend more time on creating amazing content and developing relationships with online influencers than promoting your products and services. Constant promotion causes people to tune out. Gradually, online influencers will spread the word about what you have helped them achieve. <br />
<strong>8. Use Your Manners</strong> Just as you wouldn’t snub someone who greeted you on the street, acknowledge everyone who reaches out to you online. Build relationships to bring social media marketing success. <br />
<strong>9. Don’t Disappear </strong>Be consistent in publishing content and sharing conversations. Online Followers can be fickle and will drop you like a hot potato if you disappear for weeks or months. If you will be off grid for a while try to leave a note to let people know what’s happening. <br />
<strong>10. Golden Rule</strong> Want people to say something nice about your business or share your content? Budget some time to focus on sharing and talking about content others publish.The Golden Rule applies strongly in Social Media. <br />
By and large, successful Social Media Marketing is found by being less self-centered, and more focussed on the needs of clients. When you think of it- isn’t that what truly successful marketing is all about? <br />
<i>Read the <a href="http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/218160" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">original article</a> by <a href="http://susangunelius.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Susan Gunelius</a> CEO of <a href="http://keysplashcreative.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">KeySplash Creative Inc.</a>, on Entrepreneur. (Accessed Mar.1,2011).</i>Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-53816766235976763322011-02-23T18:46:00.001-05:002014-10-30T08:36:52.574-04:00Blogger:Free Website Builder,Hosting Tool> Easy Customizing Tips!<h4>
</h4>
<h2>
Blogger:easy economical web solutions for Small businesses. Get online and running in record time using Blogger.</h2>
The free website building and hosting functionality of Blogger are a boon to small businesses for creating a website presence with customizable features. <br />
Blogger, a tool by Google, is becoming increasingly popular for small business websites. With Blogger, businesses can create a professional blog, niche product website or even a full website presence. I highly recommend the free website building and hosting tools, available through Blogger as an option businesses should consider. <br />
<h2>
Blogger as a Website Tool: Advantages<a name='more'></a></h2>
Blogger by Google can give you a free flexible web hosting platform, that is easy to update with fresh content. Using your imagination, and learning to cut and paste basic html can give you endless possibilities for your website.<br />
Want a professional domain name? You can choose to register a domain through a domain registration company such as <a href="http://deals4canada.blogspot.com/search?q=dot+ca" target="_blank">Names pro</a> for $12.88 CDN a year or less, and point it at Blogger, for a very professional finish. <br />
Blogger is easily integrated with numerous other free online tools and social media sites, due to its popularity. Easy integration helps you readily extend the reach of your business.<br />
Since Blogger is part of Google’s holdings, it is very search engine friendly, which can help your site “get found” more readily by potential clients.<br />
<h3>
Free Website Template Set up with Blogger</h3>
Blogger blogs can be set up in minutes. Simply sign up, select a site name, and and choose an existing template design. Customizing the standard Blogger options will result in a more professional looking web presence. <br />
Here are a few simple steps for creating a small business website using Blogger template design options. <br />
<ul>
<li><em>Choosing a custom template design</em>. When initially signing up for Blogger, select a temporary blog template from standard built in options. There are many different free templates available through Blogger, in which you can insert a “Pages” widget for Navigation and a slide show widget to create a feature images section. On the other hand , you can search for “Free Blogger Templates” on any search engine to find sites offering many downloadable designs from simple to sophisticated . Most templates are fully customizable with Blogger features. Select an option that most closely resembles a standard website layout with a navigation bar and feature images section.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Uploading a FREE template</em>. In the “Design” section of Blogger, select “Customize HTML” and upload new template in .xml format. If you are testing a new template design, remember to download and save a copy of the previous template if you have already made edits or customizations. </li>
</ul>
<b> </b><br />
<h2>
<b><b>Customize Your Blogger Template for a Website Presence</b> </b></h2>
<br />
Whether you chose to use a free blogger template, or seek out another free template, most elements can be readily edited and personalized, using the “Design” tab in Blogger. Customize your new Blogger template layout to closely resemble the style and look of a professional website using these tips.<br />
<ul>
<li> <em>Insert a custom logo</em>. Click on Most Blogger template designs will include instructions on how to replace a sample logo by either editing the Blogger “header” element or editing the URL used in the template design. Choosing a template that allows you to upload your company logo in the header page element is an easier option if you are not familiar with editing HTML. If you do not have a company logo, create a free simple text based logo in Picnik or another image creation suite.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Insert your images in the template design</em>. Personalize your site by replacing stock images in the header banner, or rotating images,with images relevant to your business to brand the site as your own. This can be done by clicking edit on the individual page element, or by editing the image URL used in the HTML within the template. An image URL can be obtained from free photo sites like Flikr (creative commons has free photos), or from the URL of an image one of your Blogger posts.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Choose appropriate Blogger gadgets and widgets</em>. Blogger offers a multitude of widgets or “gadgets” that can be inserted with a click into your design. Choose an HTML box,rather than a text box for easy modification later. Special widgets more likely to be found on a website include: pages, social media plug-ins, web sharing tools, Google adsense, banners from affiliate advertising, and accreditation or partner logos. Other helpful free widgets can easily be inserted by copying and pasting html code into an html widget. Avoid using blog widgets that make your site look more like a blog, such as games, or that widgets that lead people away to a different site.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Set up pages for categories</em>. Feature posts by category on pages created using the “pages” widget to give your site a user-friendly navigation similar to websites.If you want to use labels to increase SEO by interlinking posts,choose a few broad labels to display and change the title to “Topics”, and use “Also see:” vs. “labels” in posts.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Write in the third person</em>. Blogs are personal, and written in the first person, use a professional third person tone for your posts.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Customize the post appearance.</em> Do your customers need to know who wrote the post, or when it was posted? Edit the post body to create a more business like blink. Be sure to opt into the social media sharing tool. Choose to show the quick editing tools (only signed in admins can see them)You may also wish to choose to only display one post on the first page for a more site-like appearance, or designate an alternate page as the landing page using a little HTML magic.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Include business details</em> A privacy policy, Terms of Service, and Attributions, Site Map, and Contact Us sections are all important for business sites.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Set up a Contact form</em> Having a contact form, not only appears professional, but allows you to integrate queries into a data base.Set up a simple Contact Form using Google docs, and link it to your “Contact Us” page.<br />
</li>
<li><em>Remove the Blogger bar</em> This can be done by editing the HTML code as seen on <a href="http://rubysroostcafe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ruby’s Roost Cafe and Pastry Shop</a><br />
</li>
<li><em>Replace Blogger’s favicon with your own logo</em> This requires a bit more HTML coding, but it makes a more professional appearance on your tab. See <a href="http://whitehouse%20hotel.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">White House Hotel</a> </li>
</ul>
Blogger is a low-cost marketing tool with many advantages over other website building, and hosting tools for small businesses, such as <a href="http://www.webstarts.com/?aff=Suzsaves" target="_blank">Webstarts</a>. Unlike Word press, which charges for numerous upgrades and options, Blogger allows businesses to integrate videos, and Google Adsense. Blogger lets businesses easily create a customized niche website, company blog, or full company website. <br />
Blogger template designs with easy plug-in widgets, can provide a budget-wise solution for small businesses looking to establish a a web presence.<br />
For assistance implementing any of these steps, contact us.<br />
This article is based on: <a href="http://www.suite101.com/content/customizing-blogger-to-use-as-free-website-builder-hosting-tool-a313858#ixzz1Emop50YH" rel="nofollow">Customizing Blogger to Use as Free Website Builder, Hosting Tool</a> by <a href="http://www.suite101.com/profile.cfm/DianeSeltzer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Diane Seltzer</a> at Suite 101 (accessed Feb.21,2011)Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-91272818084285749182011-02-21T12:56:00.001-05:002011-02-23T18:53:20.348-05:00FREE Online Business Tools<h2>Online Business Planning Tools from Ireland</h2>I just discovered this list of Free online Business Planning tools on PlanWare.org. Plan Ware is based in Dublin, Ireland. I haven’t checked any of these tools yet, these are hot from my browser. Check them out and let me know what you think.<br />
<ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.planware.org/strategicplanner.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Online Strategic Planner</a>: <em>S</em>trategic planning tool for generating a 2-3 page strategic plan.<a name='more'></a><br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/businessplanner.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Online Business Planner</a>: Tool for developing a 5-6 page outline of a comprehensive business plan.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/businessplantips.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Business Plan Tips</a>: Tips covering all aspects of planning a business. Updated weekly.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/polls.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Online Surveys & Results</a>: Covering "nuts and bolts" of writing a business plan, and the strengths and weaknesses of businesses.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/bizplanchecklist.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Checklists for Business Planning</a>: <em>How to Write a Business Plan</em> and <em>How <u><strong>NOT</strong></u> to Write a Business Plan</em> with links to printer-friendly versions.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/cashflowchecklist.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Checklist for Improving Cash Flow</a>: Over thirty suggestions covering seven key areas.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/advice.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Online Business Plan Advice</a>: Get advice on business planning matters.<br />
</li>
<li><a href="http://www.planware.org/calender.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monthly Planning Calendars</a>: Set priorities and progress your plans.</li>
</ul></ul><strong>Plan Ware also offers a variety of Free downloads for business planning, in addition to the software they sell. Check out their site at <a href="http://www.planware.org/">PlanWare - The Business Planning Site</a></strong><br />
Love to get your feedback on the usefulness of these links. Check them out, and please leave a comment with your opinion, and the country where your business is located. If you would like to do a guest blog review of one of the online tools, please let me know in your comment.<br />
Thanks!<br />
<span style="font-family: JasmineUPC; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Suzanne</em></strong></span>Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-55739539154502540932011-02-06T13:42:00.001-05:002011-02-23T18:50:05.669-05:00Link up on LinkedIn<h3>LinkedIn Pulls Top Search Listings</h3><h2>Why Minute to Market Recommends LinkedIn</h2>LinkedIn profiles rank in the top five search results for names. Whether you have a business, or are job seeking, LinkedIn is the place to establish professional connections, and make it easy for prospective clients or employers to find you. LinkedIn connects over 70 million people in 200 countries and territories. While LinkedIn is not a top hot spot, according to alexa ratings, LinkedIn is climbing in popularity as a social networking site. Once, a basic job-seeker billboard, LinkedIn is now a connection-based referral source where careers are jump started, and businesses built through connections. LinkedIn is a veritable electronic version of an “old boys network”. <br />
<br />
LinkedIn offers an opportunity to showcase your knowledge and experience while connecting with other professionals to further your career. LinkedIn profiles build authority, through not only being shared on their site, but as a high ranking personal brand throughout the web. <br />
<h2><strong>Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile : Minute to Market Tips <a name='more'></a> </strong></h2>When did you last visit and read over your LinkedIn profile? That long ago? You’re not alone. Does your information really represent what you currently do? Creating a full profile, along with engaging, and interacting, can increase the number of opportunities that present themselves. Before connecting, ensure your profile is up-to-date and inviting. <br />
<strong><u>LinkedIn Profile Basics</u></strong> <br />
1. <strong>Profile Photo</strong>. Choose an appropriate photo. Use a recent ,photo that shows what you look like today, not 10 years ago. LinkedIn recommends using a business photo that is 6 months old or less. People don’t want to do business with your children (as adorable as they are), your pet, nor your spouse. To upload a photo, click “Settings”, then “Profile photo”. <br />
2. <strong>Personalised URL</strong>. A personalized URL increases your chance of being found, gaining connections, and receiving opportunities. Personalised URLs (www.linkedin.com/in/yourname <em>versus </em>www.linkedin.com/pub/your-name/series-of-numbers-and-characters) became available in 2007, If your name or focus has changed, you can modify your current URL. <a href="http://help.linkedin.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87/kw/vanity%20url" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to open the instructions given on LinkedIn for creating a personal URL . This will open a new window.">See the instructions here.</a> <br />
3. <strong>Headline</strong>. Search engines results are matched to keywords in your LinkedIn headline, as well as your summary. When creating a headline,think of core keywords people might associate with your profile; think about who your target audience is, and what they would be seeking. <br />
<strong>Here are some more tips to help create your effective headline:</strong> <br />
<strong>Brainstorm the following:</strong><br />
a. <strong>What do you do?</strong> Jot down terms as they relate to your current or past positions. This can help you define yourself and provide focus for developing your headline. <br />
b. <strong>What do you offer?</strong> What makes you irreplaceable? Why should people connect with you? What can you offer a connection other than a wave? <br />
eg.: Gardening Consultant. Finding the right vegetables to plant for your soil & climate. <br />
c. <strong>What makes you unique?</strong> Focus on what differentiates you from the rest of the field, and why it is worth noting. <br />
eg.: Green Business Machine Consultant. Offering award-winning environmental, and economical business machine solutions. <br />
d. <strong>What value do you bring?</strong> OK, you are a CEO but what does that mean to me? How does you being a CEO relate to where you would fit into my network? <br />
eg.: Providing training: Offering training through forums, blogs, Skype, YouTube and instant messaging. <br />
e. <strong>What problem do you solve?</strong> How do you prevent problems, and provide timely assistance when people need a problem fixed immediately? People want problems fixed, correctly and right away. . <br />
eg.: Blog Consultant. Advising & educating new bloggers on how to write and promote a blog, to build online communities, and generate sales. <br />
4. <strong>Email Settings</strong>. Get timely updates on invitations, and opportunities sent to your email from LinkedIn.First designate a primary email .Click: “Settings”, “Personal information “, then “Email addresses”. Once you designate your email address, return to “Settings”, “Email notifications”, then “Contact settings” where you can opt in to receive notifications. <br />
5. <strong>Profile and Status Updates</strong>.Keep your connections “in the loop”. In “Settings”, choose to allow significant profile and status updates to be sent to your connections, Update your status frequently by sharing new articles, events, and happenings related to your company or yourself. <br />
6. <strong>Public Profile</strong>. When a search is performed for your name, LinkedIn profiles generally rank in the top five result. Set your profile to public,and have it indexed. Just click: “Settings”, “Public Profile”,then select “Full View “. You can select which items are viewable by the public from the menu list. <br />
Make it easy for people to find you. Link up on LinkedIn Today! <br />
This article was adapted from <a href="http://socialmediatoday.com/suzannevara/260773/6-tips-giving-your-linkedin-profile-facelift" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tips for giving your LinkedIn Profile a Facelift by Suzanne Vara</a> which was shared on LinkedIn. Now I’m off to update <strong><em>my</em></strong> LinkedIn Profile. <br />
Look forward to connecting with you there! <br />
<span style="font-family: 'Freestyle Script';"><strong><em>Suzanne</em></strong></span>Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-88771464051969030792011-01-27T13:48:00.001-05:002011-02-23T18:51:26.680-05:00Essential Twitter Marketing Rules<h4>Establish Your Twitter Presence Now, Then Follow Aaron’s Rules.</h4><strong>Article Synopsis, Review and Recommendations:</strong> <a href="http://learnaboutus.com/7-essential-marketing-rules-for-twitter.html" target="_blank" title="Click here to open the original article in a new window.">7 Essential Marketing Rules for Twitter by Aaron Zitzer</a> <br />
Aaron Zitzer points out on “<strong>Twitter you can engage with almost anyone</strong>” and cites Twitter as<strong> a</strong> <strong>compelling tool for business</strong>. I agree. However, the painstaking, overly cautious set of rules Aaron gives, might cause some business owners to dismiss Twitter as something they neither have the time, nor resources to utilize. <strong>I highly recommend each of Aaron’s rules. However, time is of the essence in establishing a Twitter presence, especially for branding.</strong> There may be another business using your name, and there is also the common practice of hijacking brand names.(Some enterprising individuals take great pleasure in sending false tweets from business brand names, or will simply set up a brand name on Twitter, then demand payment to hand over the reins.) While Aaron correctly points out the wrong approach can a create a PR nightmare for a business,<strong> being overly cautious can also back fire</strong>, or be a waste of time and resources, <br />
<u><strong>I recommend the following three rules in order of importance.</strong></u><br />
<a name='more'></a><u> </u> <br />
<ol><li><strong>Look Alive</strong>- Having a complete profile helps people find you. (See Aaron’s point 4 below.)<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Feed your Twitter- </strong>Put out an initial message (Tweet), Don’t be a stalker, or peeping Tom.. Twitter accounts following a ton of people, but sitting mum are suspect. A good initial Tweet is a question that conveys a bit about your branding. Then, use a variety of online tools to feed your other online activity to your Twitter account. A blog feed would be my top priority, as it draws people to your site through links to your articles, and helps define your voice.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Grow Your Flock. –</strong> (See Aaron’s point 5) Tweets issued without Followers, can be a waste of time and resources, as few people hear what you are saying.</li>
</ol>After completing this checklist, then use Aaron’s rules. They are extremely helpful and important.<br />
I look forward to reading the <strong>FREE expanded version of Aaron’s article, complete with active links</strong> referred to in the author’s bio at the end of the article.<br />
<strong>Aaron Zitzer’s 7 Essential Marketing Rules for Twitter (Condensed from HERE)</strong><br />
<ol><li><strong>Plan :</strong> What do you want to accomplish? What are your goals, and how will you know that you’re successful or going the right direction? Spewing sales pitches can backfire, and create a PR nightmare for a business. Marketing is about: understanding market needs, analyzing competition, identifying the positioning ‘sweet spot’, building awareness and credibility, developing and supporting a community of loyal customers and more.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Listen:</strong> What are the hot topics, most popular links from tweets, or most popular users? Which tweets get re-tweeted most? What are your industry users or target audience tweeting about?<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Find Your Voice </strong>Make sure your voice is appropriate for your objectives. Document the characteristics of your chosen voice, and why they are important – this is especially useful if you will have more than one person tweeting for your organization or if you plan to hire ghost writers.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Look Alive: C</strong>reate a rich profile page, with a profile photo.Complete the profile information, and include a URL – consider a specific landing page on your website.Use a good quality, properly formatted photo if you can. Promote your Twitter account on your website, in email signatures, direct mail pieces, business cards, etc. Tweeting regularly? Display your Tweets on your website or blog.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Grow Your Flock: </strong>Ask your existing customers and partners to follow you. Follow companies and individuals within your industry and/or region. Some will follow you in return. Follow users with certain characteristics, for example people who follow others, will often follow you back. can actually help you attract followers. Converse with others. “Follow many but don’t auto-follow everyone” is probably the best approach.<br />
</li>
<li><strong>Engage Genuinely </strong>Use search.twitter.com or another Twitter search method to see who is talking about you, your brand or a keyword related to your industry.Then, engage when you have something informative to say.( Tip: Search “to:yourname” to find any tweets including your user name.)</li>
</ol>6a Optimize your Twitter time and avoid potential Twitter landmines: <br />
<ul><li>Increase efficiency using tools such as Tweetdeck and Twhirl<br />
</li>
<li>Understand and use direct messages (DM) (private), replies (public) and re-tweets (RT) correctly.<br />
</li>
<li>You don’t have to read every tweet or reply to every DM, but don’t ignore them all either.<br />
</li>
<li>Increase the amount you can say by using URL shortening tools like TinyURL, tr.im and others.<br />
</li>
<li>Build your place in the community, by replying to others’ tweets, and re-tweeting others’ posts.</li>
</ul>7. <strong>Track Your Results</strong> Decide which Key Performance Indicators will show you are accomplishing your goals. Your KPIs will help you figure out what tools you need.<br />
<blockquote><strong><em>Example</em></strong></blockquote><strong><em>Goal: </em></strong>Get visitors to your website purchasing a product, Web analytics tools from Yahoo, Google and others can compare how many purchasers on your site are coming from Twitter, Track your KPIs on a regular basis, and use them to make adjustments to your strategy as needed.<br />
<strong>Conclusion:</strong> <br />
Twitter is changing the way people communicate, and search for information. Twitter can be used for fast, effective,inexpensive research; customer support; public relations; lead generation and more – but your efforts will almost certainly backfire if you don’t follow the explicit and unspoken policies in this vibrant, rapidly growing community. <br />
Whether you are self-employed, a small business owner, a multi-national corporation or a government agency – a high-tech company, a manufacturer or a coffee shop, Twitter provides huge opportunities and risks. <br />
Zitzer A. 2011,January, 26. <a href="http://learnaboutus.com/7-essential-marketing-rules-for-twitter.html" target="_blank" title="Click here to open the original article in a new window.">7 Essential Marketing Tools for Twitter</a>. January 26 2011, from learnaboutus.comDalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-2504472606222320932011-01-10T17:04:00.001-05:002011-02-23T18:55:05.660-05:00Collections: eTool OrganizationWhat do you collect? I collect eTools. eTools? I have found a great collection of FREE eTools that make doing business online easier, and help me accomplish more in less time. <br />
Things that make life run smoother always fascinated me. Eons ago, I twigged a program to write and print reports on my C64 computer instead of getting mired in the cycle of handwriting, secretary typing, proofing, then re-typing and re-proofing. Later, taught teachers and beginning readers to utilize online voice recognition software. I then started blogging as a way to organize discovered information without it taking up a lot of time, ink, space or paper. As time progressed, my fascination with code, widgets, and social media marketing grew as did my collection of eTools.<br />
<a name='more'></a> <br />
When my computer crashed one too many times, I decided online storage was the preferable solution. Not only does online storage keep files available should my computer crash, I can access my files wherever internet is available. (Just about everywhere you can operate a cell phone.)<br />
There are a variety of places and ways you can store information for free online.<a href="http://twitter.com/SuzSaves" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click HERE to follow Suzanne Sholer on Twitter">Follow me on Twitter</a> and ask to join my email list to get a FREE copy of my “FREE Money and Time saving eTools List”<br />
I’ll be watching for you on Twitter!<br />
SuzanneDalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-35229149914372088072010-12-30T12:45:00.001-05:002011-02-23T18:52:15.522-05:00Selling Online Content: What sells ?Selling online content? These stats will be of interest to you. Before deciding to develop and offer online content businesses may wish to use some of the following statistics.<br />
A recent study of 755 internet users in the US revealed 65% of the respondents purchased online content (just one percent less than those who report purchasing tangibles and reservations online) <br />
Top ten online content sales were:<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<ul><li>33% digital music online<br />
</li>
<li>33% software<br />
</li>
<li>21% apps for cell phones or tablet computers<br />
</li>
<li>19% digital games<br />
</li>
<li>18% digital newspaper, magazine, or journal articles or reports<br />
</li>
<li>16% videos, movies, or TV shows<br />
</li>
<li>15% ringtones<br />
</li>
<li>12% digital photos<br />
</li>
<li>11% members-only premium content from a website that has other free material on it<br />
</li>
<li>10% e-books </li>
</ul>Between 28 October and 1 November 2010, respondents were asked about 15 different kinds of online material that could be purchased or accessed after a payment. The online content assessed in this survey was“intangible” digital products such as software, articles, and music that need not have a physical form rather than “tangible” products such as clothes, CDs, books, or computers or tangible services such as hotel reservations or airline tickets. <br />
Nearly half (46%) of internet purchasers had bought only one or two of the types of content covered in the survey while 16% had purchased six or more types of content. <br />
<h4>How much is the typical user willing to pay?</h4>At first glance it appears the average monthly expenditure per user for content was approximately $47 per month for downloaded or accessed material, including both subscriptions (an average of $12 per month) and individual file access (an average of $22 per month). However this statistic is skewed by the purchases of some extremely high-end users. In reality, most purchasers spend about $10 per month. <br />
<h4>Preferred methods for accessing online content purchases</h4>The majority of the internet users surveyed paid for subscription services (23%) rather than downloading individual files (16%), or accessing streaming content (8%).<br />
<h4>Who purchases what online?</h4>The Pew Internet study found little gender or racial difference between online purchasers (except for software-which had more male purchasers). The majority of purchases were made by:people aged 30-49, people with college education or higher,and those in income brackets over $50K. Amongst 18-29 year olds, the most popular purchase was music, 50 to 64 - software. Podcasts and eBooks were mostly purchased by 30 to 49 year-olds, and those with college education or higher. Surprisingly those on the lowest and highest income brackets were almost tied for eBook and podcast purchases. Premium or members-only content on a website, was more likely to be purchased by those in the $75K income bracket. <br />
<h4>Who does not purchase online content?</h4>Are any of these in your target audience? Of the 35% who did not report buying online content, the majority had only high school or less education and were in the under $35K income bracket. Also those over age 50 made up a large percentage of those not purchasing online content. Non-Caucasians outranked whites by 7% in the makeup of those not purchasing online content.<br />
Although this study reflects US online buying habits (66% of whom have home broadband connections), similar results may be found in other countries. If you know of a similar study, please leave a confidential comment with the link below.<br />
Statistics and information from Pew Internet & American Life Project, Jim Jansen – “65% of internet users have paid for online content” Dec.30th, 2010 <a href="http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2010/Paying-for-Content.aspx">http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2010/Paying-for-Content.aspx</a> Accessed Dec.30th 2010Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-37489797561792796892010-11-24T09:42:00.001-05:002011-02-23T19:02:06.419-05:00Fonts: Website Enhancement through Font ChoiceImprove your website by choosing a psychologically appropriate font. Audience perception is affected by psychological impact of fonts in websites and documents. Would you deliver a doctoral dissertation in baby talk? A sports play-by-play in legalese? With so many fonts available, how can you decide which font will most effective suit your purpose? A Wichita University study recently examined the “personality traits” of several different fonts through an electronic survey. The charts below from the University of Wichita site show how different fonts were perceived and how they would be used by respondents. To illustrate the psychological impact of fonts take a look at these two passages, both with an identical message, but the blink is quite different. <br />
<span style="font-family: 'Blackadder ITC';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Improve your website by choosing a psychologically appropriate font. Audience perception is affected by psychological impact of fonts in websites and documents. Would you deliver a doctoral dissertation in baby talk? A sports play-by-play in legalese?</span> </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">(Appropriate for formal invitations)</span> <br />
<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Handwriting';">Improve your website by choosing a psychologically appropriate font. Audience perception is affected by psychological impact of fonts in websites and documents. Would you deliver a doctoral dissertation in baby talk? A sports play-by-play in legalese? </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">(An appropriate choice for a friendly scrapbooking project.)</span><br />
<a name='more'></a> <br />
To use these psychological study results, first determine your audience and the impression you want to make. Use no more than three fonts to convey that message (two preferably). In addition, keep font sizes to no more than three on a page.. Portray reliability by using the same fonts throughout your site and in all your offline publicity consistently. Want an opinion on your blink? Contact the author for a site survey.<a href="http://psychology.wichita.edu/surl/usabilitynews/81/images/POF6.gif" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to see Font Personalities from the Wichita University survey in a new window."><img height="400" src="http://psychology.wichita.edu/surl/usabilitynews/81/images/POF6.gif" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="289" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://psychology.wichita.edu/surl/usabilitynews/81/images/POF.uses.gif" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Click here to see the graph of font user opinions in a new page."><img height="313" src="http://psychology.wichita.edu/surl/usabilitynews/81/images/POF.uses.gif" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></a> <br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://psychology.wichita.edu/surl/usabilitynews/81/PersonalityofFonts.asp">http://psychology.wichita.edu/surl/usabilitynews/81/PersonalityofFonts.asp</a>Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-62130130229223940682010-11-22T16:26:00.001-05:002010-11-24T13:07:02.184-05:00Websites Search Engines Find: Make Marketable Sites<p>Market your website with effective search engine optimization and create user friendly sites. These ten tips will help your site get found. The most beautiful site isn’t worth a hill of beans if it can’t be found. Need help implementing these steps? Get free email updates by subscribing to this site. <ol> <li>Your website address needs to be memorable and easy to type. Make it clear what your site is about. Search engines don’t give points for having your product in your URL, but it can help get it can make it easier for folks to recall the name of your site. <li>Use product names and keywords when building the files for your web site. Use hyphens instead of underscores in naming the files. (ie.www.widgetworld.org/green-widgets.html.) Why? Search engine robots sometimes read hyphens and under-scores differently plus you get keyword credit when using hyphens. <li>Content COUNTS! Make sure every web site and every page you build has compelling text on each page. How much content? Opinions vary on the amount for the best site optimization, but most agree it should never be less than 200 words of text and 10% of those should be important keywords. <li>See your site through the eyes of a search engine. Follow these rules in layout and design of a web site if you want the site to market well in the search engines: <ul> <li>Use more text content than html on the home page. <li>Avoid frames. <li>Minimize javascript. (No matter how cute that little applet might be, resist it!) <li>If posting ads make sure you attach no follow tags. <li>Make it clear what the site is about the minute it comes up on the visitor's screen. <li>Keep all files close to the root directory (search engines don’t like to crawl deep for info). <li>Do not use all caps for text.</li></ul> <li>Make sure each page title is seven words or less. Avoid stopper words (of, the, this, and, etc.) in titles. Give every page a unique title on the page matched to the meta tag title. <li>Use meta tags. Are meta tags dead? Some search engines may ignore them this week, but next week that could change so put meta tags on each web site page. It certainly won’t hurt a web page to have meta tags. Use meta tags correctly: keep the title tags less than 60 characters (punctuation and spaces count as characters); keep the description tags to 150 characters; and use no more than ten keyword phrases for keyword tags. <li>Make sure each page has at least one internal link to another page on your site and add external links that help the viewer understand the site better. <li>Use alt tags for each graphic so people surfing the net with graphics turned off or the handicapped can still understand your site because of well formulated alt tags containing key words. <li>Select a topic and stay with it. One topic is best, so if your site is about widgets use that as the theme and have pages about green, blue and titanium widgets. Do not try to sell widgets and coconuts on the same site — have two sites with single themes. <li>Include a link page on your web site. Try to have 20 links to your web site from other web sites before you go live on the internet. Make sure those other sites linking to you that have web site themes that are complementary to yours. A site about baby clothes with links to a night club, just doesn’t flow. </li></ol> <p>If you use these ten tips, your site will be much easier to find and have a greater potential for success. The internet is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay on top of the latest research, and implement this knowledge. Subscribe to this site to stay informed. </p> Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8557944793290996776.post-61211454346693349162010-11-19T21:01:00.001-05:002010-11-19T21:01:53.057-05:00What’s Your HPA? Are You Marketing It?<h5>After reading <em>“Always have a Call to Action”</em> in Entrepreneurial Woman, I started questioning: How well am I presenting my call to action? What is my Highest Paying action? & How can I market it effectively? Read on for business building tips using <strong><em>your </em></strong>HPA. </h5> <p><strong>What Consumers Want</strong> <p>According to Karen Dodd. of Entrepreneurial Woman,people <em>want</em> easy-to-understand, bite-sized marketing messages and most of all,<em><strong> be told what to do next.</strong></em> <p><strong><u>3 Parts of a Compelling Marketing Message</u></strong> <p>The author advises-truly compelling marketing messages : <ul> <li>Ask critical attention grabbing questions. <li>Reassure readers there <em>is</em> a solution for their situation. <li>Tell them exactly what they need to do next.</li></ul> <p><strong><u><em>How it Works</em></u></strong> <p><strong>Targeted questioning</strong> <strong>resonates with your ideal client</strong>, forcing them to confront what is not working in their life. Questions like: “<em>are you: frustrated by, struggling with, embarrassed about…?”</em> remind them of their “pain.” <p><strong>Reassuring </strong><strong>engages them further</strong>. We all want to think we are experiencing the same thing as others, but want to discover a better way. In effect, you're saying to prospective clients, “you're normal, there is a way out of your situation and it's not your fault that you haven't been shown the solution yet.” <p><strong>Presenting the Call to Action</strong> Tell them what you want them to do next. Direct them to take your “highest payoff action” (HPA). Your HPA is the action that gives the highest likelihood of prospects becoming paying clients. What is your HPA? Call for a complimentary consultation? Fill in info and email it to you, Register for a free teleclass you're offering? <p><strong>Using Your HPA </strong>Ms. Dodd emphasizes-Put a clear, compelling<strong> “call to action” on all your prospecting material: </strong>your website, ezine, brochures, business card, special offers and mailings. If your call to action is missing from any of your marketing messages, you're wasting time, energy and money. <p>People often think of a website as only a means to establish an online presence, not realizing it can get them new business, It <em>shouldn't </em>be that way. Karen says, “All too often, (I see) entrepreneurs sacrificing <em>utility</em> for beauty. …beautiful marketing doesn't get you new clients.” <hr> <em><strong>Take Action! Karen Dodd’s 3 Steps for Maximizing HPA </strong></em> <p><strong>1. Take a really critical look at your website:</strong> (yes, now!) <p>Does the very first page remind visitors of their discomfort through compelling questions and tell them <em>exactly </em>what to do next? People visit your website for a reason. Get their attention and help them solve their problems. You're not being negative or hitting them over the head, you’re saving them time! <p><strong>2. Look at your business card:</strong> <p>Is it simply a calling card with contact information, or does it actively brings you business? <strong><em>Two must haves on your business card:</em></strong> <ul> <li><strong>Free Special Offer</strong> in exchange for their name and email, <li><strong>Minimum 3 "pull marketing questions,"</strong> and what they should do next, to see if you can be of help</li></ul> <p><strong>3. Review your marketing materials:</strong> <p>Is the HPA you want people to take clearly indicated <strong><em>every time</em></strong> you send out a mailing, newsletter, or special announcement,? This is especially critical with mailed marketing pieces, (conversion rates, even with expert marketing, are typically very low). Anything (even a warm friendly update letter) without a clear call to action, is a waste of your time, energy and money. – (Tip: Save time by putting it in your email signature.) <p><strong><u>Ms Dodd Summarizes</u></strong> If you made an in-person sales call, then didn't ask for their business or tell them the next step in the process, <strong><em>wouldn't you be disrespecting</em></strong> <strong><em>them</em></strong> <strong><em>and their time?</em></strong> When someone is interested enough to stop by our website or look at our marketing materials, they're looking for help and it’s our duty to share how we can help them. It's <em>their</em> responsibility to make their own decision, you're simply making it clear to them how to take the next step, to get the help they came looking for. <p>Related Articles: <p><a href="http://www.entrepreneurialwoman.ca/2010/08/16/always-have-a-call-to-action">The original article</a>: <em><strong>Always have a Call to Action.</strong></em>accessed16/08/2010 </p> Dalehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03009210123333391798noreply@blogger.com0