Marketing - Open Your Mind Before You Close Your Doors!





Last week, while out for a stroll on my lunch break, I couldn't help but notice that most of the local "mom and pop businesses" are closed (for good) on just about the whole block.  Sadly, lately, this is not an uncommon site, especially in Manhattan.  The rent is through the roof in NYC and a lot of business are struggling to survive.  One common thread stood out among a lot of these businesses and that was lack of marketing. While some of the businesses had great promotional deals, they relied way too heavily on "word-of-mouth" advertising.  Many of them offered deals to the local University students while totally ignoring the rest of their customers. These failed businesses are prime examples of why believing the old myth that marketing is for big business is a huge no no!

Marketing is important even in small business

No business is too small for marketing; whether social media, e-mail or flyers, something is always better than nothing. There are tons of informational sources to assist in beginner-level marketing, with publications that address everything from "How to create a Twitter account" to "How to interpret analytics".  Don't be fooled there are cost-effective ways to market your small business or service. 

How do you plan to market your business in 2017? Let us know in the comments below or pop over to our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

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Beware of What's Bubblin'

The title of this post may suggest that this post will be an affirmation on the importance of vigilance when it comes to your next business deal or client well, it's not!

It's about the importance of being vigilant when it comes to your current clients and their activities.  For example, a current client of Bubblin' Banter recently landed a spot in an Ad Campaign, had we not kept our eyes open we would have missed an opportunity; an opportunity to promote.  The key word in that last sentence is promote because in this article it refers to the promotion of Bubblin' Banter and not the client.  While we only consult with this client on Branding, the fact that he landed this campaign not only speaks wonders about the clients but also about BB. 

Most businesses wait until a job for a client is done and will use the results of their work to promote their business/services to acquire new clients. However, living in the microwave society that we live in BB realized that it wouldn't be a faux pas to promote the work of our client while we're stilling building their brand.   With the help of social media it is totally possible to show the growth at every stage giving a total appreciation for the end result when you reach the finish line.  So "Beware of What' Bubblin'" at all times so that you too can maximize on current opportunities to promote your business/service.  Happy Friday!

Do your clients know you're thankful?

By Renee Jamerson

There is a lot to learn in business from the non-profit sector, particularly their #1 rule, "always say thank you".  It is imperative that non-profits thank their donors but is it necessary in business as well?

The answer is absolutely! Some businesses think a deal is complete after payment receipt, but if this is your way of thinking be prepared for that to possibly be your last job for that client.  Just as in the non-profit sector, business relationships have to be cultivated and nurtured if you want to build an ongoing working relationship. Plus, there is nothing to lose, just the gain of a loyal client.

If you still don't see where we're coming from try this example; you own start-up graphic design firm X. Firm X has completed 4 jobs for a client this year and they "love, love, love" your "stuff".  Meanwhile, Firm Y is prospect hunting and takes your client out for lunch, while providing them with samples of jobs with the exact same quality as yours.  Whether or not you've shown appreciation for their business or even tried to establish a relationship could make all the difference between your next job and the loss of a client.

You have to remember, the same clients you're completing jobs or consulting for are being solicited constantly by your competition.  So, even if it's nothing more than an E-card take the time out to say "Thank You".