ForumsAdvertising, Sales and Marketing

who's attacking who...let's all be friends and business associates there's much work ahead of us..let's all stay on track and remain positive!

http://www.val-card.org/val-cards
http://www.affordablewateralarm.com
http://www.a-partymasters.com
http://www.pottytrainerforpups.com
http://www.val-card.org

PS: Today I went to a networking function...it was awesome and I got some great tips and advice. I highly recommend that you all do the same.

On the issue of inexpensive or free advertising has anyone had any luck posting advertising on local store community boards, such as Fred Meyer or Safeway. These are free and open to the public, seems that people take the cards and use them. I have not tried them myself yet.

Tim

I forgot to mention - please advertise in more than one way.

I am a huge fan of the web but how do you reach people when they aren't on the web? The same goes for radio, tv, print, direct mail, outdoor, and mobile. None of them will reach all the people you need to get your message to.

Get a better understanding of who your customers are, what they tend to do and find better ways to reach them using an advertising mix. Invest in a good website and support that with a flyer or a direct mail piece. Create engaging radio and carry that message over into your mobile messaging or your email campaign.

Don't forget web banners, community outreach (sponsor events, sports teams, and get involved with local schools, churches and civic organizations), and get out and meet people - you are your best advertising. Hand out coupons and talk to people.

Sometimes one thing works so well that we over look or forget that there are other ways to reach people.

I should have included this when I started this post. Sorry for missing it.

Puzzleman, I don't disagree with your position at all. Discounts do help attract FIRST TIME customers for some products and services. It's up to the business owner to ensure that they become LIFE LONG customers for reasons other than price after that.

I think the correct answer lies somewhere between the views expressed. Not all products need a discount to attract first time buyers but for some it may be necessary. I think Puzzleman cannot be ignored, he has shaped a message that explains the value of his product. His market may be smaller but that is a decision he has made and seems to accept. On the other hand, if I was in the food service business I might be interested in having a Val-Card. The difference is understanding your customers and how they view your product.

What is missing is that small business owners leave it up to the customer to decide who or what the business is about - that is a mistake. I like what Puzzleman is doing because he is establishing his product as being of a higher quality. It sends a strong message to people buying for a loved one, it tells them that they are getting only the best. they may be purchasing an heirloom toy, something that can be passed down. He can charge more with this story, and should. I think the Val-Cards has great value for some and not so much for others. I don't want the store where I buy my business clothes to use it because it goes against their image in my head. But I would be happy if my favorite pizza place offered.

It doesn't have to be one way or the other. It really boils down to the business and what they are trying to say to their customers. It starts with knowing and understanding them.

It stills comes back to the message being communicated. Or at least it does for me.

Yes I was not trying to do anything but post my response to your topic, as well as your response to someone else.

I am sorry for the misunderstanding.

Dear Iwrite:

Re: I don't want the store where I buy my business clothes to use it because it goes against their image in my head. But I would be happy if my favorite pizza place offered.

I have never known anyone not to want a good merchandising deal that offers value, quality and increases sales.. I come from a menswear manufacturing family. It is my understanding that in todays economic climate all brands are offering discounts to drive in sales. However you may be a different type of consumer and I respect that.