ABC/D's of Business: Marketing...The Most Misunderstood Word in Business
05/01/2009 03:59 PM Filed in: John DiPietro
Marketing...The Most Misunderstood Word in Business!
In this crazy business climate we are currently experiencing, business owners need to look beyond traditional methodologies and right into the mirror to see how they can win more business and just as importantly, keep the business they have already worked so hard for. So often, when you mention the word " marketing" to a businessperson the first thoughts that come to mind are advertising, public relations and branding. That’s very true, but the one thread that runs through all of these phases of marketing is how you market yourself as a person - not a businessperson, but as an individual. What are the unique traits that separate you from the crowd? Regardless of your position on the corporate totem pole, you need to think of yourself as a complete entity that provides the impetus for a business relationship to flourish...or flounder! Keep some of these points in mind: 1. What influence does my personal appearance play?
Am I overweight? Do I have a sloppy appearance? Do I practice good personal hygiene? Are my teeth well kept? Are my clothes clean and pressed or do I look like I just awakened from a long winter nap? Your appearance can make or break you right from the start. 2. What influence do my business habits have on continued business?
After I have worked hard to create a sale, do I follow up with details to fulfill the terms of the sale? Do I return phone calls promptly? Do I return emails promptly? Do I become proactive when a mistake is made or do I go into hiding hoping the problem will go away? 3. What sets me apart from the competition? Do I attempt to learn the business of my clients or do I just "push" deals onto them that will earn me a trip? Do I volunteer to do extra for the client or just barely live up to the letter of the contract? Am I ahead or behind the curve in technology to make the task of communicating to the client and partners easy and pleasant? In these uncertain economic times, all of our actions and reactions need to be examined.
John DiPietro is a marketer, author and speaker and President of the Boston area based marketing firm, ABC/D. He is the author of You Don’t Have To Be Perfect To Be Great, now in its second printing. Currently he offers training in the field of “Using Social Networks as a Marketing Tool for Your Business.” More info at www.pefecttogreat.com or www.johndipietro.typepad.com.
Feel free to email him at john@johndipietro.com with any questions on this topic.
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