Archive for December, 2010

Small Businesses Can Do Big Marketing: Seth Godin

Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010

Seth talks about the power of small business marketing compared to the power of big business budgets.  It’s about people and not committees or “take forever” decisions.  If you own or work for a small business, take advantage of the personality, speed, and unique attributes of a small business.  See if your marketing plan fits with some of Seth’s thoughts and tips:

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College Students On the Web: A Facinating Report

Thursday, December 16th, 2010

Jakob Nielsen understands web usability.  In fact, he has forgotten more than most “experts” will ever know.  His study on web use for college students is fascinating.  The summary, alone, is a wealth of information:

http://www.useit.com/alertbox/students.html

Your thoughts are welcome…

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So Which Search Engine Do You Place Your Ads With?

Thursday, December 16th, 2010

Google first, Yahoo and Microsoft a distant second and third. The chart below answers the question for you–in most cases.  Google AdWords works great for my business.  However, don’t forget the concept of niche markets, which some engines may focus on better than others.  Just a thought:

Google Dominates US Search

Double click on the chart for a larger image.

Your comments are welcome…

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Marketing Tip: Plan Your Small Business Content Calendar for 2011

Thursday, December 16th, 2010

In the spirit of the Holiday season, how about moving from a Holiday Calendar to a Content Calendar? I know you’re busy with shopping, business, family, and just the year-end rush. In just a few short weeks we move from 2010 to 2011. Yes, life at the speed of time. It just doesn’t slow down!

Why not take a little time to plan your content calendar for 2011? Below are some tips to help you move the message along:

  • Twelve months in the year. Twelve topics. Four quarters in the business year. Four category topics.
  • If you send out an e-mail marketing newsletter, any more than 12 is overkill. Quality, not quantity. Value not volume.
  • Make the message count and let your readers and customers walk away with the best of “take-home value.”
  • Do you want to focus on content, promotions, a combination, or just plain, practical content?
  • Integrate your social media campaigns within your 2011 calendar. What’s your plan and message? Is there a theme or a focus for the year?
  • If you blog, think of 52 topics-one per week. Keep that dynamic blog content fresh and frequent. Google will love you and it’s the most cost-effective SEO available.
  • What’s the USP for your business? You know, your Unique Selling Proposition–the one sentence or phrase that summarizes what you offer and why your customer cares. If you don’t have one, develop one for early 2011.
  • Be flexible. The above tips are not carved in stone. Life does move at the speed of change so adapt.
  • And last, remember: If you don’t plan your year, it will plan it for you.

Take control. Plan your content.

Your comments are welcome…

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Google Sent Atkins Marketing Solutions and Stuart Atkins A Thank You Video!

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

This was a unique thank you from Google.  Now, I bet this was not “just for me,” however, there was a unique and personal customization to this creative video.  As big as Google is, they still took the time to thank me for my use of Google Adwords.  Google Adwords is a tool I am am learning and liking.  It takes time, but is a cost-effective way to tell your marketing story.  View the video and have some fun:

httpv://www.youtube.com/adwords10?x=84aebc7de40f49f5bea9944fa06a1456

And yes, I did visit the moon and loved it! :)

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