I have a small business, providing a generic service. There are thousands of companies who can do what we are doing. How do we stand out among the crowd? We do not have much advertising and promotional budget. Help...
2006-07-08 01:10:28 · 7 answers · asked by Mobidus Lee 3 in Business & Finance ➔ Advertising & Marketing
Branding can be bullshit, but when you've got a commodity product or service to sell, it isn't bullshit at all. The things that distinguish your company from others will essentially be elements of your brand. There's no short explanation for how to build your brand, but as a starting point you need to be sure you're meeting all of the basic expectations that customers have at least as well as your competitors AND that you're doing some of these in a unique and exceptional way. In terms of dollar for dollar tactical value, I'd focus on getting yourself any kind of press coverage possible. Nothing beats free. Next would be local marketing promotions, whether discounts, trial service, etc. If you're buying ads, keep to your very local trade area. This usually means print ads, but if you realistically serve a larger area there may be local Web portals or radio that are cost effective ad vehicles. Keep in mind that one ad usually won't do it. It generally takes time and repetition for paid advertising to be effective.
You may consider a few sources to find assistance. Local chambers of commerce, as well as local MBA programs may provide an opportunity to get some advice. Further, I've linked SCORE at the bottom of the post. It's a mentor program run by the SBA.
2006-07-08 02:37:52 · answer #1 · answered by pismocrab 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Differentiation is often very difficult in a crowed marketplace. If you can do it, then you've got something that makes you stand out from the competition. Try reading 'Simply Better' by Patrick Barwise of Harvard Business School. The main message is this: do what you do but only better than anyone else then tell the world about it any way you can.
2006-07-08 12:09:12 · answer #2 · answered by Don S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Branding requires a massive amount of cash. Branding works for companies like Coke, FedEx, UPS, Google, etc., because they have millions to invest in branding their company. Branding is a complete waste of time and money for most small businesses.
If you have tons of competitors, here's what your marketing needs to answer and reveal:
Why should I buy from you? What’s in it for me? Why do I need your product? Why should I buy right now? Can you offer me a guarantee? What benefits do I get from using your product? What makes your company different and unique?
You must differentiate yourself from everybody else.
2006-07-08 07:19:18 · answer #3 · answered by pharcydetrip 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
For your size business, yes.
Go to Amazon and read everything by Dan Kennedy.
Or get his Magnetic Marketing kit at www.dankennedy.com
2006-07-08 01:17:26 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is bs but it gives customers confidence in a company/product/range.
2006-07-08 01:17:24 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
ANNOUNCE ALL THE SALES
2006-07-08 02:06:49 · answer #6 · answered by JULIE 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
wat?
2006-07-08 01:45:22 · answer #7 · answered by Ruhua 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋