Where Do You Start?

Posted by Jerry Smith · February 25, 2009 · Print This Article

Every day there seems to be a new marketing tool appearing. Many, many of these are online but there are frequent calls to you as a business owner to attend the latest networking event, join a newly formed group, listen to a webinar and so on.

These all look interesting, don’t they? Some are even compelling, especially the new social media sites that are getting more and more press,each seemingly hailed as “the New Facebook” or something similar. As a business owner how are you to make sense of all this opportunity without becoming overwhelmed?

How much have the rules changed, really?

It can seem overwhelming for sure and the speed and reach of the internet has certainly changed how you can get your message out there. However the basic rules are still the same and may help to make sense of things.

You still need to identify your ideal client profile – this is key in all marketing activity. You need to identify for whom your message is intended – your ideal client
Where do they hang out? – before the internet this was, maybe, easier but the same rules apply. If you are looking to connect with business owners you went to an appropriate Chamber of Commerce or business networking group. The same rule applies – internet tools cater to specific audiences too.
Do some research – there is some trial and error involved on or offline. Go to some events, try them out to see if they work. Most sites offer free trials or are completely free – give them a try. Many groups allow you to come a couple of times as a guest.

Of course, you still need to have a clear marketing message but so much of this is a mindset issue.

Beware a mindset that assumes because you don’t understand all that the web has to offer it is not for you or impossibly confusing – that leads you to avoiding action.

A mindset that demands you “get online” at all costs will lead you to a load of unconnected activity, none of it linked together.

Try thinking of the internet as a new (and often better) way to play by the old rules. The fundamentals of marketing still apply, this is just an exciting way to get the message directly to your ideal client. It can even be fun!

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