Playing “pretend” Pretending you have called before when you haven’t is just weird.  And is usually pretty transparent.  Don’t do it.  Instead, do some research so you have a value proposition from the beginning. Oops…didn’t mean to say all that It’s important to map out your message in advance.  Otherwise, you could hang up without […]

You don’t have or know who your target audience is – Marketing without a target audience is really just putting stuff out there and hoping someone will be interested. Fix This – Define your audience. Not the Anybody(s), Everybody(s) and Somebody(s), but a specific targeted audience. Figure out who and where they are and what […]

Definition of Networking (from the Small Business Glossary): Developing business contacts to form business relationships, increase your knowledge, expand your business base and serve the community. How to be an “effective networker”: Need a positive and supportive attitude. Belonging is not enough- you need to participate.  Be active! Effective networking requires you to develop relationships- […]

Every week in your TEAM chapter you will have an opportunity to give a “One Minute Commercial” about your business, and I have a little saying about this time of the meeting.  It is “Facts Tell…Stories Sell”.  What does that mean?  It means when we are telling stories about our business we are really painting […]

1. ATTENDANCE – It is crucial to be at every meeting (on time) to develop relationships with members and get the referrals you need. Out of sight is out of mind. 2. WELL PREPARED 1 MINUTE COMMERCIAL – You must communicate effectively to your networking partners what your needs are so you can get the […]

Why is it important? – Why should they pay attention to what you’re saying? “After this presentation, you will understand ________.” Personal experience – Bringing some real-life stories can make your presentation more interesting and memorable. Humor – Laughter reduces stress and can make listeners feel more relaxed and open to learning.  Share a good […]

By Justine Beauregard A company’s access to information, ideas, tools and other resources is at an all-time high, but it’s the ability to be decisive and apply what you learn quickly that is truly valuable. When it comes to marketing, the mantra is “measure, track and improve”. Keeping this in mind will, among other payoffs, […]

Don’t try to be everything to everyone Your business will evolve – and that’s ok A difficult client does not reflect anything Systems don’t have to be complicated There is no one-size-fits-all marketing plan Your best ideas require space – take breaks There is a solution to everyone problem Rest is necessary At the end […]

EDUCATE Answer a popular FAQ Quick tip or advice Post a customer review or testimonial ENTERTAIN Ask a fun question to your audience Holiday post Industry meme INSPIRE Company accomplishments Relevant quote Inspirational story PROMOTE Product images or video Promo a sale Share user-generated content

to make the best first impression WHO ARE YOU? WHAT ARE YOU AN EXPERT IN? WHO DO YOU SERVE? HOW CAN CUSTOMERS BENEFIT FROM YOUR SERVICES WHAT DOES YOUR CUSTOMER NEED TO DO NEXT?