5 Simple Small Business Marketing Tips for 2009

2009 is going to challenging but exciting for small businesses as everyone works hard to attract and importantly retain our key customers. Here are 5 simple tips to help you maximise your marketing results during the year.

1. Focus on your Key Customers
All effective marketing strategies and tactics begin and end with the customer. It is important to find out who your most profitable customers are and how you can keep them loyal, as well as how you can attract new customers with a similar profile.

Consider how you can add more value to your key customers and don’t be shy to get them involved to give you feedback for product or service improvements or new ideas.

2. Identify your Key Points of Difference
You can gain a competitive edge in your market by knowing and communicating your key point of difference to your target market. Ask yourself:

• What makes you stand out from your competitors?
• What makes your product or service better than your competitors?
• Is your point of difference relevant to your customers’ needs and wants?

 Once you know this, you’ll be able to set yourself apart from your competitors and place emphasis on the areas of your business that will provide the most return.

3. Keep an eye on your Competitors
Your competitors are probably looking a ways to attract your customers, so if you keep a close eye on their activities you will be in better position to defend your business and keep your customers. By knowing your competitors’ weaknesses you will also find opportunities to exploit.

4. Have a Marketing Plan
Take the time to practice your thinking skills regarding your market, customers, the marketing objectives you would like to reach, your overall game plan (marketing strategy) and what marketing tactics to choose.

Don’t get hung up on producing pages and pages of words, do what suits you and your business.

Remember a marketing plan is never set in stone and the best ones are tweaked throughout the year. However if you do not have something to guide you then most likely your business will not be as successful as it could be.

5. Learn from Your Experiences
Continually speak to your customers, research your competitors and evaluate your marketing activities to ensure you are taking advantage of all opportunities available. If something doesn’t work – don’t be put off – chances are you will know what went wrong and why and you can always improve the next time.