Burt’s Bees is a great example of a small, homegrown Maine company that has grown into a giant by keeping things simple: simple products, simple packaging, even a simple marketing message. Founded by a Maine beekeeper and a graphic artist in 1984, the company has become legendary for quality and a down-home image. As the …
Have you been blacklisted?
Getting your company on an e-mail blacklist is easy. Getting off is a lot tougher. As yesterday’s New York Times illustrates, it’s easy to get labeled a spammer. “… Even people who follow the rules and do not send unwanted e-mail can find themselves in a jam. (One) company shared its server with some clients, …
A Field Guide to Freelance Writers, Designers, etc.
Thinking of doing a little freelance writing or graphic design work? Or maybe you’re thinking of hiring one. The Freelance Switch blog has compiled an amusing Guide to Freelancers. It zeros in on 13 common character flaws — oops, breeds — the highs and lows associated with each type, and a glimpse into the impact …
Vacations: To unplug? Or just keep plugging?
We all need it. We all know we need it. And every year it seems fewer of us do it. Take vacations, that is. Only 59 percent of 626 small-business owners polled nationwide said they plan to take at least one week off this year, according to an American Express Small Business Monitor reported in …
Why marketing hype ultimately fails
Hype is always a temptation when talking or writing about your company or services. Puffing up your features and benefits may seem like a good way to set yourself apart from the competition. But too much hype hurts you in the long run, when people realize that their expectations — the ones you set with …
A search engine — for products
Maybe your problem isn’t attracting more customers. Maybe you’ve already got plenty. Maybe what you really need is something new, something different to sell to all those customers. Introducing ProductBlazer, a free search engine designed to help you identify new products and locate wholesale suppliers. According to Inc.: “ProductBlazer pulls together more than 26,000 innovative …
Do you repeat yourself? Do you? Well, do ya?
You should, you know. Everyone is busy, distracted, only half-listening. They’re quite likely to miss your marketing message the first time (or two). Business Week‘s Michelle Nichols says offering your customer the same information in different ways can help get your message across and close the sale. Her sales tips (paraphrased by me): Listen for …