Nailed It!

Perhaps the most hated words to our kids and really, most adults. A definite “fun sponge” effect when merely uttered.

However, to most business owners, it also signals activity. From software to signs, and everything in between, most businesses benefit from the increased activity schools generate. Especially important in tough economic times, schools and government should be an important prospect for doing business.

Take the time now to determine who does the buying at the local districts. Although the teachers may have summers off the administrative offices continue to operate and can be helpful.

Good Selling!

Good News! It’s a miracle! Got up this morning, looked into the mirror and realized most of us are still alive, though slightly bruised from fighting our way though most of the winter months. It’s like working out and using those muscles or marketing and operation tools we haven’t used in a long time – in some cases years. Sore yes, but after reading about how terrible it is from every form of media, you might think it was a foregone conclusion that our businesses were in the grave.

Spring is in sight. Days are longer, people are starting to go outdoors, and the phones are actually starting to ring a few times – certainly more than a few weeks ago. Can’t wait for the government or TARP to jumpstart our businesses or sales – of course we all know that, but had to be said.

Time to wick some of that Spring activity into February. We need to remind our current and prospective customers that it’s a good time to buy for future needs. Most manufacturers have capacity to fill before the spring activity starts to trickle in which means deals! Continue Reading »

It’s the Holiday Season – Feeling Festive?

Talk about a scary October, not to mention Halloween! The government is bailing out everyone but you-the businesses that service their debt, pay their mortgage, attempt to keep their employees employed and maybe, just maybe, grow their business in uncertain times. Oh, did I say pay taxes, hmm.

It’s the holiday season. Some businesses, skewed for the holidays, are already promoting and pushing their products as they do every year; upwards of 40% of their annual business happens, or doesn’t, in 45-60 days.

Take a chapter out of their book by joining the holiday buying mentality. The media has already prepared the market for you:

• Offer a sale or add value of specific services or products for no additional costs
• Tailor some of your products to the holiday season
• Promote products that enhance holiday festivities

Look out another 90 days and gently remind your existing and potential customers of possible upcoming needs:

• Replenishing inventory of products that have projected usage over the next few months in order to expense costs in 2008 before new, more austere budgets hit in January for 2009
• Pet projects that were approved for this year but not complete…it’s always tough to go before the “budget altar” again for a project that was already approved, especially with tight dollars
• Trade show display booths that require updating for new products or services

We can help with the consumables like decals or replenishing jobsite signs, vehicle graphics for company rigs to trade show, event signs or even customized decals for the season. Continue Reading »