Saturday, April 6, 2013

Response to Kendra's post, Market Coverage

I agree with Kendra that a selective level of distribution within the market coverage is the best option.  When it is convenient to find the product, there's a better chance the consumer buys the product and continues to in the future.  The Pandora example Kendra brought up is good because that's a perfect example of market coverage and how a product should be shown off in different places.  This makes it easier for consumers to find them and more enjoyable to buy.  I do believe market coverage varies with certain products because of the nature of sales.  For example, you wouldn't expect to see a very expensive necklace sold at a convenience store.  At times, it could be more about the exclusivity than the actual product because that attracts people to want to buy the product.

Are you attracted to a product if it's exclusive and why?

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Fundamental Principles of Small Business Marketing

Small businesses are already at a disadvantage compared to big businesses because they have less money to work with.  In order for them to be successful being the underdog in the market, they have to focus on specific things more closely.  For example, really focusing on your clients because client goals and concerns are the reason they are in business to begin with.  Clients buy your products and services to meet their needs.  Focusing on client problems and fixing them will attract future prospects and clients and will guarantee your current clients will be loyal to you.  Targeting your market is crucial for small businesses because they can't afford to waste any time as they are already playing at a disadvantage because of bigger businesses.  Marketing to people who don’t want what you provide is a waste of time and money. 

Demonstrate value is important because before a prospect becomes a client and a client becomes a repeat client, they need to be convinced of the value of your products and services. They need to feel confident that your products and services will do what they are supposed to do.  Getting your name out as a small business is important in growing your network so you have the opportunity down the road to become a big business.  Finally, building relationships is important for all of business.  People like to buy from others they know and trust and attracting new clients takes a lot more effort than selling to a repeat client. To grow your business, find ways to regularly stay in touch, educate them, and explain the ways you can help solve their problems.

Out of all these principles I just mentioned, which one do you believe is most important for small businesses and why?