Simple steps to make a small business stand apart from the competition
(ARA) - Every small business owner knows that it's essential to stand out, particularly in the current economy. But knowing that you need to stand out is different from knowing how to stand out. Everyone is competing to get customers' attention, and to make them to look your way, you need to get creative.
Though it might not seem the most logical place to look to for advice, take this tip from Hollywood: Image is everything. Customers are savvier than ever before, and you need to make sure that you're playing at their level. If your image has become stagnant, it's essential to change it now. A comprehensive marketing program is the key for any small business image overhaul.
No matter what target market you're trying to reach, consider how enhancing your marketing plan can help your business.
Retail businesses, perhaps one of the sectors hit hardest by the economic downturn, have been shuttering and struggling. The good news is that things seem to be slowly looking up, with increased consumer confidence and spending. So, as your customers start to think about shopping again, you want your business to be first in their mind.
One excellent way to reach out to them is by sending postcards any time you're running a sale or other promotions. If you're concerned that you're too small to have a graphic designer on staff, you can go to Web sites like Vistaprint.com that have a wide array of customizable designs to choose from.
And whether your focus is business-to-business or direct to consumers, you need to be equipped with branded correspondence. Items like business cards, letterhead, notepads and envelopes provide a professional appearance that speaks volumes to your customers. It's especially helpful to have a readily identifiable logo to put on your paper goods.
If you don't have experience in logo design, you still have a lot of options. There are good tutorials available on the Web if you've got an idea of your own. Vistaprint.com has a program that walks you through creating a logo and then applies it to your marketing collateral. Or if you just aren't sure where to start, turn to the pros - an experienced eye for design makes all the difference.
Every business owner knows all too well that a lot of the money that comes in the door goes right back out the door. Your company's attention to detail shouldn't stop at reaching customers - it should extend to the people you do business with as well. From your checks to your return address labels, present a unified look, and you'll set yourself apart from the competition. Not only will your appearance be more professional, but the more your name and logo are out in the public, the more memorable your business will be.
Courtesy of ARAcontent