tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48803438472968725612024-03-19T12:22:59.949+00:00Henmore MarketingMarketing consultancy, social media consultancy, advertising agency, PR & marketing services, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Midlands, UK. Graphic design, web design, sales and marketing training, business development consultancy, social media support.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-18695851392994995072014-11-20T11:44:00.000+00:002014-11-20T11:44:42.011+00:00Funding for Derbyshire BusinessesAt the MBC business group meeting this week we had an interesting update from Michael Reardon, Senior Transport Officer (Smarter Travel), Derbyshire County Council Sustainable Travel team<br />
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Michael gave us an update on capital funding for cycle facilities that available to local businesses. He has sent me further details so I am sharing them with you here.<br />
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Derbyshire County Council’s Sustainable Travel team currently have capital funds available to improve cycle facilities at tourism businesses across Derbyshire.<br />
Eligible businesses include bed and breakfasts, hotels and self catering establishments, as well as visitor attractions and other tourism based facilities.<br />
Examples of typical projects:<br />
* Cycle storage, including sheffield stands and shelters.<br />
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* Associated amenities, including storage lockers.<br />
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* Improvements to gates and pathways where appropriate.<br />
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Other proposals with clear cycle related benefits – especially those which encourage longer distance cycle leisure trips and overnight stays – will also be considered.<br />
The funding is strictly limited, and available on a 50/50 basis.<br />
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If you feel that your tourism business could benefit and would like to find out more, contact:<br />
Sustainable.travel@derbyshire.gov.uk<br />
Tel: 01629 538156<br />
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Notes.<br />
* There is no specific closing date, nor any long application form.<br />
* Funds are available on a first come first served basis, up to a maximum of 50% of total capital costs (ex VAT).<br />
* There is no specific upper or lower limit of funding applications, although a typical cycle shelter costs between £1,500 - £2,500 + VAT.<br />
* Facilities could benefit both visitors and staff.<br />
* Interested parties should contact The Sustainable Travel team (as above) in the first instance.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-31110540624961349622012-11-29T19:48:00.000+00:002014-11-20T11:52:24.289+00:00Twitter Users Forum<div class="mobile-photo">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75ez46sdczbkr1-BofSZ27Pa9L1jtehwuy5oB5wsHFQgEqocMBUEtHkxFvu0n5LPs-aW84NHB9ZPY0MInhgsjYQee0bAxLjeMTQs7DLwq47ehuWmj1OgrVzyT-3gxWPQkJzYj3Fn_rHM/s1600/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FRWFzdCBTdGFmZm9yZHNoaXJlLTIwMTIxMTI5LTAwMTY1LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-739209"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75ez46sdczbkr1-BofSZ27Pa9L1jtehwuy5oB5wsHFQgEqocMBUEtHkxFvu0n5LPs-aW84NHB9ZPY0MInhgsjYQee0bAxLjeMTQs7DLwq47ehuWmj1OgrVzyT-3gxWPQkJzYj3Fn_rHM/s320/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FRWFzdCBTdGFmZm9yZHNoaXJlLTIwMTIxMTI5LTAwMTY1LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-739209" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5816323909191005746" /></a></div>
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What a great event. Brilliant input from everyone.</div>
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Catherine Doel<br />
Henmore Marketing<br />
+44 1335 289075<br />
@IdeasStrategies</div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-87614331832056494712012-09-13T14:52:00.001+01:002012-09-13T14:58:19.644+01:00Are you tempted to start a business?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/static/beyourownboss/120806_BYOB_never.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/static/beyourownboss/120806_BYOB_never.gif" width="224" /></a></div>
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This appeals to me a lot. If something seems impossible then you just need to try harder to find a way to make it work.</div>
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<a href="http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/static/beyourownboss/120806_BYOB_tip1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="36" src="http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/static/beyourownboss/120806_BYOB_tip1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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These great sentiments and graphics are from the Be Your Own Boss programme fronted by Innocent entrepreneur Richard Reed. <a href="http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/beyourownboss">http://www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/beyourownboss</a></div>
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Interestingly they have set up an investment company - so if you are struggling with funding from a bank, try these guys.<br />
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I tripped over all this on Twitter and need to share with you a first in my Twitter usage. It is the first time that I have ever paid any attention to a promoted tweet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9s13QHpP0Qdv6e2DrHemWwXdHjeumpG9V995y-mwlXxpe0F3txD7mLrP244A6y82UcAfou6wF6ONQvWlsIbbdt_b8x8rgAuW1L58ZNeUgaTUJqZqNVfen2J_ayuA8vat8Hbwc7qqjgA/s1600/Innocent+tweet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="82" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9s13QHpP0Qdv6e2DrHemWwXdHjeumpG9V995y-mwlXxpe0F3txD7mLrP244A6y82UcAfou6wF6ONQvWlsIbbdt_b8x8rgAuW1L58ZNeUgaTUJqZqNVfen2J_ayuA8vat8Hbwc7qqjgA/s320/Innocent+tweet.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I don't follow many links on Twitter, unless I know the person/business that has posted the link. So there you have it - a perfect example of how powerful a brand can be. Will I watch the programme? </div>
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Well, I missed the first one .... but I am definitely following <a href="https://twitter.com/jamjarinvest">@jamjarinvest</a></div>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-75946723290791757952012-09-10T12:38:00.001+01:002012-09-10T12:40:04.649+01:00Henmore Marketing is Social Media speaker at Business Peak District event<span style="font-family: inherit;">Henmore is very proud to be speaking at the upcoming Business Peak District event:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: purple;"><b>An Introduction to Social Media</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx_AA2KT-eofoOR8O00NJLdlubjyTIxrdr-kJJOrx26mouC8NftBdMs35Ok9Dj7NjWdUeylPWtQKi5LDnw5TaWN_Qc_ov8M0jT4WrbxsKio-oBCEGDg2Fm1RQeUb3MQDyVuGdx9rPiaE/s1600/Business+Peak+District.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx_AA2KT-eofoOR8O00NJLdlubjyTIxrdr-kJJOrx26mouC8NftBdMs35Ok9Dj7NjWdUeylPWtQKi5LDnw5TaWN_Qc_ov8M0jT4WrbxsKio-oBCEGDg2Fm1RQeUb3MQDyVuGdx9rPiaE/s200/Business+Peak+District.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Please note, this event by Business Peak District is only available for businesses located or trading within the wider Peak District.<br /><br />This seminar is designed for any small and medium-sized Peak District businesses wanting to develop online marketing who would benefit from an overview of social media to find out how it can help grow a business. No technical knowledge is required.<br /><br />This seminar is presented in a jargon-free, easy-to-understand format and includes presentations from companies that are using social media in a successful way.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Network Events organised by Business Peak District</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Wednesday 19th September (10 am - 12 noon)</b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f4f6; color: #760f72; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Royal Hotel Hayfield</span></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f4f6; color: #760f72; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'Marketing - bringing your website alive and keeping your customers happy'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://derbyshireretailhelp.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/business-peak-district-are-organising.html">details</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Wednesday 26th September (10 am - 12.30 pm)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bakewell Business & Agricultural Centre</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Bakewell, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17px;">DE45 1AH</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'Social Media - an introduction'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://conta.cc/TX12Hf">booking online</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Wednesday 10th October (10 am - 12 noon)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Buxton TBA</span></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f4f6; color: #760f72; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'Celebrating local food and drink supply and distribution'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Tuesday 27th November (10 am - 1 pm)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beechenhill Farm, Ilam</span></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f4f6; color: #760f72; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'Renewable Technologies - all you need to know and planning out business risks, a survival kit'</span></div>
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Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-39351842347222805912012-06-18T12:30:00.003+01:002012-06-22T11:57:33.300+01:00Positive comments - a lovely way to start the week!<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">I gave a talk on Social Media recently to a tourism group. It was very difficult to know how much detail I should go into because I am mindful that a proportion of the delegates were probably never going to engage with many of the tools of social media. Twitter was a 'marmite' subject to that audience. Half of the delegates were more likely to be consumers of social media than contributors, probably unwittingly at that. So with this in mind I added into my social media talk a small plea. Would everyone please make one small change to their browsing habits? After reading, leave a comment. It matters to small business owners, in particular, to receive feedback. So why do readers hold back? Does is matter so much to travel the web incognito?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">Here is this morning's reminder of my plea to the tourism group. I am running a small workshop on Thursday about blogging. This morning I was very encouraged to receive a Facebook comment from Joy, one of the registrants on the course. She wrote: </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"><i>"Very much looking forward to Blogging on Thursday. Can really recommend Catherine's Workshops @dovefarm as they are informative and helpful but at the same time friendly and relaxed."</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">I am very grateful to Joy for her testimonial. How lovely to receive positive feedback and what a great way to start the week. I am prepping the workshop with extra enthusiasm as a result.</span> <span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;">So how about it? When browsing the web today could you spare a second to leave a comment... even if you would never, ever describe yourself as a social media user?</span>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-53509049661079010142012-04-25T12:05:00.001+01:002012-04-25T12:09:47.977+01:00Analytics and marketing mathsClients know that I am a bit of a nag about testing and measuring, especially web stats. Checking your web site analytics tool in an effective way is a vital piece of marketing house-keeping. So why do so few SMBs actually do this? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ8hrUHoZJAWWwFEwC44NK6biMzMruiOGrbhdwSf1EjwrRg7JAUCZ7lLM043WsqRTF56vfXsQ-uyIGuPYDgkGIY6I6y6py0mVTzFRT-PsvK-wnvdVARBRx91L2MGYzw1RERmJF4l6Mmqo/s1600/iStock_000019931688XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ8hrUHoZJAWWwFEwC44NK6biMzMruiOGrbhdwSf1EjwrRg7JAUCZ7lLM043WsqRTF56vfXsQ-uyIGuPYDgkGIY6I6y6py0mVTzFRT-PsvK-wnvdVARBRx91L2MGYzw1RERmJF4l6Mmqo/s320/iStock_000019931688XSmall.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you need our help to understand and interpret your web stats?</td></tr>
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I am reminded of this because I just took a call from an online directory saleswoman regarding a business whose online advertising we manage. With a sales script that centred on the amount of quality traffic her directory sends to the website in question she felt confident that she was on safe ground, not realising she was talking to a marketing agency. Armed by the stats that I manage for this business, I knew she was blagging. Checking referral traffic from paid sources is a no brainer. We've put in place a sales tracking system which is rigorously followed. It is our job to keep an eye on what is working and what is not. Poor telesales lady! She finished up trying to suggest the client should pay for the directory entry out of loyalty; such a desperate attempt to play on the emotions was wasted on my role. My job is to take this pressure away from the client. Looking at the stats I am certain the client would think re-booking this entry was not best use of a tight marketing budget so I politely thanked the caller and suggested she contact us again in 6 months.<br />
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Sales calls to clients are directed to us precisely because we can make informed decisions and not be bamboozled by telesales claims about Google rankings and quality traffic etc. But clearly those sales tactics work or they wouldn't be so prevalent. (By the way, I am not against paid directory entries - far from it, if they work it is great.)<br />
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So, please, check your stats. Check them and use the information! If you don't know what all those numbers mean and how to interpret them we can train you. If you can't bear doing this sort of work then for a small fee we'll do it for you. Either way, it is time or money well spent because the information should improve your marketing focus and maybe cut some unnecessary spend. <br />
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<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-47104923263079552872012-04-12T12:01:00.000+01:002012-04-27T10:55:53.908+01:00Small business web sites - bite sized piecesYesterday I gave a workshop to a few WiRE members who wanted to get to grips with their websites. The desired outcome was a list of changes they could brief their web designer on. During the session I was reminded again how important it is that a business owner considers a web site as a three part project. <br />
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Content - Look - Build <br />
(navigation is a core consideration of each of these).<br />
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<li>content falls into the realms of 'marketing communications' . I would urge clients to bash some wording about in a word processing package before they even consider contacting a 'web designer'. Start to section it in a way that makes sense to your reader to help them navigate through your information. </li>
<li>the look of the site requires design and branding skill. Your web site is a highly visible application of your brand. Select some images or take some photos that will resonate with your readers. </li>
<li>Building the site is the techy bit, which is where most 'web designers' (in most cases web technician is a better description) are most comfortable. Web technicians are brilliant if they have a great brief they can comment on - hence the importance of business owners taking responsibility for the two points above. </li>
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A website needn't be a huge elephantine project. Break it into these bite sized chunks. Contract the support or learn the DIY toolset to help you put it together and manage it. Conduct a strategic review to ensure it meets your marketing needs.<br />
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If you would like to join our next group 2 hour strategic review workshop or have your own private review session please <a href="mailto:web@henmore.co.uk">email </a>us.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-31658901554829764452012-01-16T11:49:00.004+00:002012-02-09T11:44:41.408+00:00advertising with AIDA impact<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">We'll make your advertising work hard . . . here's how!</span><br />
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Have you heard of AIDA?<br />
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Your advertising needs to be eye-catching with something that <span style="color: red;">grabs a</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">ttention</span>, like an image or a bold statement.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">random image - made you look tho</td></tr>
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Once you've caught someone's attention, you need to <span style="color: #cc0000;">stimulate their interest</span> to delve deeper - key messages in bold text and in image captions often work well. These teasers need to mean something to the readers or they will quickly lose interest again.<br />
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The idea is that they quickly understand what it's all about and engage with what you are saying. This is the make or break moment for your copy. What you are saying has to resonate enough with the emotions of your potential buyers for them to take action. This means that you have to create a sense of <span style="color: red;">desire that motivates</span> them. You need to share the joys that the benefits of your product or service will bring. At the same time they have to have a clear understanding of all the facts. So think about exactly what they need to know.<br />
<br />
By this stage they have breezed rapidly along an emotional journey, supported by fact, and have alighted at the point of decision. To take <span style="color: red;">action </span>now, or not to take action? Yikes - you don't want to mess up now! Keep them on track . . ..What will swing the reader to jump into gear and not leave it til later? Quick, can you think of a limited offer, a consequence, some way to motivate them to start loving the thing you are offering ...soonest? If you can't quite think of something, I know for certain that we can. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0KflGgwI3_AnNEZY5ErqaDporIeCbo-omJA-DNGF6xULCnCZgTpy12qsfUbbpISrw3ZQei6W_OhL8BKGQDINm0wY7cLpt9A8QMt_mX5CFkHSk4avoILoxaxM-xdouqnCqyfQtctbXJM/s1600/san+pellegrino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0KflGgwI3_AnNEZY5ErqaDporIeCbo-omJA-DNGF6xULCnCZgTpy12qsfUbbpISrw3ZQei6W_OhL8BKGQDINm0wY7cLpt9A8QMt_mX5CFkHSk4avoILoxaxM-xdouqnCqyfQtctbXJM/s1600/san+pellegrino.jpg" /></a></div>
We have ideas aplenty, and lots of experience to back it up. So email us now at <a href="mailto:marketing@henmore.co.uk">marketing@henmore.co.uk</a> and let's put some refreshing sparkle into your advertising.<br />
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<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-72794953225520330282012-01-04T18:09:00.002+00:002012-01-16T12:02:42.685+00:00Olympic year has startedHow did 2012 creep up on us so soon? <br />
Can your business take advantage of the Olympic Games? Not all businesses will benefit and some are claiming the games will have a negative impact. Madness really that our capital city will be flooded with tourists, yet tourist businesses like London theatres will be closing during the games.<br />
Do you have plans to capitalise on Olympic fever? <br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-31582322022765100622011-11-29T10:44:00.001+00:002011-11-30T17:00:11.165+00:00Thoughts on Google +I am facilitating a training workshop this evening on Social Media Marketing, covering the basics and a bit beyond depending on the range of online marketing experience in the group. So as I put the finishing touches to the presentation, which generally means cutting back my expectations of the amount of information I can realistically share in 2 hours, I am pondering on whether to even include Google +. I suppose it would be wrong not to as it is now 'out there' like it or not. In my case, right now .... not. Obviously this will be subject to change as the market responds. <br />
<br />
My issue is that the fine line between bartering my identity in exchange for some great free gizmos has been crossed when it comes to Google +. I am generally a fan of Google products, but with Google + they aren't even pretending to know only a reasonable amount about you, your friends, family, business, preferences, habits.... It is no secret that your information is being pillaged, on the contrary we are being persuaded to get over it. Probably I will in time. Just now I am imaging a future when one day when I can't decide what to wear, up will pop my Google + app telling me that it has selected my underwear ready for me to get dressed. How is that for a nightmare scenario?Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-37975873540543315002011-10-21T11:51:00.000+01:002011-11-30T16:53:21.439+00:00Small business branding issue - where is the line between you and your business? What are you really selling?<br />
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I have just received an
email from a client who is seeking clarity on an issue she has with
her marketing. Her query is as follows:</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
“I need to get
clearer about '<my name="">'my name" or "my company name's" (footnote 1) <business 1="" below)="" name'(see=""> USP, and I am still not sure whether I am my business or not”</business></my></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
First a little bit of
context. My client is a consultant/coach working on personal and
professional development with individuals and teams. Her specialist
subject is by definition personal to people and in order to be
effective she needs people's trust. The paying
customer/decision-maker may be the direct recipient of her service or
may be an HR person who sources and arranges on behalf of the
organisation.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I hear business
advisors tell business owners “you are your business”. They
insist “you must sell 'you'. And the poor business owner, who is
likely to be at home with the operational side of their business, but
less comfortable being its marketing manager, is left unclear on what
this means. Conclusions may be drawn that you have to be a nice person,
or a popular person, to run a successful small business. Then there is the current buzzword 'authenticity', which a
lot of people are translating as sharing everything about themselves
as individuals. And, then add to that the now obligatory adjective
'passionate'. Can't you just be good at what you offer any more?</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I send out a challenge
to these business advisors. I am not satisfied that
you have to “sell yourself” and “you are your business”. I would like to offer some health warnings to small business owers
regarding this advice. </div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Back to the client query re the USP. Let's
differentiate between 'USP', ethos, brand, and 'personal selling!</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<u>USP</u> – so hard
to offer something “unique”. USP has been downgraded to “wow
factors” with good reason. A wow factor of your business could be
that it uses the latest technology, has the most comfortable
premises, has some amazing quantifiable results etc etc (nothing
personal there). If you are struggling to think of some wow factors
trying asking your customers what they think.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<u>Ethos and brand</u>
are very linked in my mind, as a brand without an ethos is in danger
of becoming just a meaningless logo device. No matter the size of
the business, there are brand values wrapped up in it. The
difficulty for micro businesses is unravelling what they are because
the business owners are so close to it and simply do things 'their
way'. In Henmore's Marketing Club we have some fun working on this
area. Have a think, what standards and values do you have that are
appropriate to share with your customers? What values do your
customers seek?</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<u>Personal selling</u>
is a marketing text book phrase for when there is a face-to-face
sales person as one of your marketing tactics (part of your
promotional mix - see 2 below). Sales reps are the essence of this
tactic.<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> So if you are the
business owner and selling your expertise you are inevitably both the
sales rep and the delivery mechanism so possibly the </span>concept
of having to sell yourself and be authentic and passionate looms
large (see 3 below).
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Could someone else sell your product/service?</span><br />
<br />
Try testing yourself
with this question. Could someone else sell your product or service
for you? There should only be one answer to that question – yes!
Imagine what information and approach this ficticious sales person
would need. Actually, don't just imagine it, write it down. What
steps would you suggest the sales rep takes to convert a prospective
customer into a paying customer? Give your ficticious salesman the
job description of having to demonstrate credibility - would you
equip her with some prepared information? How would she build
conviction? This may involve a demo or trial – so that is possibly
where the real you comes back in again. How would you make sure your
sales person sets expectations about price and service levels? I bet
your sales person wouldn't give away so much for free in the way that
small business owners do!
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If you couldn't answer
yes to the salesperson question and you are more comfortable selling
'you' then let me leave you with this thought: You may be
over-identifying with your business. You may be viewing its success,
financial or otherwise, as validating you as a person. When
something goes awry - business owners do make errors, products do
fail, markets can collapse - the disasters or failures could have an
affect on your mental well-being. Some entrepreneurs evaluate and
start again with new information, others don't. What would you do?</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
----------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<ol>
<li><i>You'll spot that
names were deleted – there's a balance between transparency and
appropriateness.</i></li>
</ol>
</div>
<ol start="2">
<li><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>Personal selling
is part of the promotional mix, which for the sake of completeness
also includes advertising, sales promotion, direct marketing, and
publicity. The promotional mix part of your marketing plan specifies
how much emphasis to apportion each of these techniques, and how
much money to budget for each. (Reality check – not many micro
businesses have a marketing plan beyond a 'to do' list unless their
bank requires one).</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
</li>
<li><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>I will publish my
blog on authenticity another time because I want to run it past a
kindred spirt in the US first. In the mean time I'd advise people to start being
wary of describing how passionate they are about their business or
product because it is fast becoming a cliché.</i></div>
</li>
</ol>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-46092970454759245162011-10-10T12:09:00.003+01:002011-10-10T12:10:49.330+01:00Which is more important - the intuitive or rational mind?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px;">"The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift." Albert Einstein </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; line-height: 15px;">Marketing and running a business requires both, I reckon . . .</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'Nimbus Sans L', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-11554573017392535142011-09-22T15:08:00.000+01:002012-04-25T12:13:15.610+01:00Facebook for business<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Setting up and managing Facebook FOR BUSINESS</span><br />
<br />
With more than 750 million users, you are likely already using Facebook; you may even fall in the 50% that log on every day. The question is: How well are you using Facebook for business … if at all? If you would like to know how to create a winning Facebook page, increase the number of “likes” and generate business leads with Facebook, this session is for you. You will learn:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>How to set up your Facebook page correctly</li>
<li>How to manage events on Facebook</li>
<li>Best practices and tips for creating engaging content</li>
<li>Communications strategies for your fan base</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Venue: Dove Studio, Dove Farm, Mill Lane, off Dove Street, Ellastone, DE6 2GY<br />
Price: £15 + VAT<br />
<br />
<a href="http://henmore.blogspot.com/p/event-booking-form.html">2012 workshop schedule and booking form</a><br />
<br />
Other details: Please bring a laptop computer if possible and a note of password information to any applications (e.g. Facebook) so that you can access and make changes to your accounts. <br />
<br />
This workshop is for a small group of people so we will do our best to answer individual questions and resolve issues.<br />
<br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">“Catherine talks common sense when it comes to marketing, which is wonderfully refreshing for a small business trying to achieve top results on a tight budget. Her practical, down-to-earth approach is both reassuring and motivating. I found her social media workshop and her general advice extremely helpful.”</span></i><br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-29803017956364142502011-08-01T20:29:00.009+01:002011-09-22T16:44:27.755+01:00Netwalking in Churnet ValleyMore opportunities to improve your work life balance!<br />
<br />
- work bit is making/strengthening your connections with local business people<br />
- the life bit is enjoying some fabulous scenery and getting some exercise by walking for an hour or so<br />
- the balance bit is the consumption of refreshments afterwards!<br />
<br />
So this is what to expect from netwalking! Plus the easy, stress-free nature of this form of networking resulting from the format that Paul arranges.<br />
<br />
<b>Next netwalking: 23rd August - Churnet Valley, Staffordshire</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDhjgYd53b5_L1VMWH_i9yAAqABez7EnBvU3fbJ7_YxiK677Bus_JMED47yUUiCyaTjCFazxDsmmuQRFFw8aZY5KlgNZ31nBxan1a_lmFvKFWCnW3dlTCr4Wtjw4u5FsLhW8vig_ZKvs/s1600/2007+-+2008+%252863%2529+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b></b></a></div>
<b>meeting in Alton at the Parish Church to set off at 12.30pm. </b><br />
Walking for about an hour with a quasi-formal facilitated networking structure. Booking via <a href="http://www.skylarkactivities.com/booking-form.html">netwalking booking form</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v-r6dktdGRh7Kor216JoCGSbMzz3EB8BBaigaO-xuXm7AQHV2UtVSkMLuFuX7-ug9l-dalTS5D9jwd9HVxM0QQsCRV8ZUPlSmAcAisS1TFQ8pYW_4Dnp8EUUuqEO9hkcPtFOGCqtUkY/s1600/netwalking+capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v-r6dktdGRh7Kor216JoCGSbMzz3EB8BBaigaO-xuXm7AQHV2UtVSkMLuFuX7-ug9l-dalTS5D9jwd9HVxM0QQsCRV8ZUPlSmAcAisS1TFQ8pYW_4Dnp8EUUuqEO9hkcPtFOGCqtUkY/s400/netwalking+capture.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comments about the network following the Carsington Water netwalk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sort of small print:<br />
Paul, the netwalking leader that we have partnered with (www.skylarkactivities.com), has a netwalker code:<br />
<br />
You are your own best medical expert.<br />
Accept the need for the group to make the journey together – being outdoors there is a shared responsibility. Alert fellow netwalkers to any hazards along the way. <br />
Share your expertise - if you spot something interesting.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDhjgYd53b5_L1VMWH_i9yAAqABez7EnBvU3fbJ7_YxiK677Bus_JMED47yUUiCyaTjCFazxDsmmuQRFFw8aZY5KlgNZ31nBxan1a_lmFvKFWCnW3dlTCr4Wtjw4u5FsLhW8vig_ZKvs/s1600/2007+-+2008+%252863%2529+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDhjgYd53b5_L1VMWH_i9yAAqABez7EnBvU3fbJ7_YxiK677Bus_JMED47yUUiCyaTjCFazxDsmmuQRFFw8aZY5KlgNZ31nBxan1a_lmFvKFWCnW3dlTCr4Wtjw4u5FsLhW8vig_ZKvs/s200/2007+-+2008+%252863%2529+%252823%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Help people over difficult patches or obstacles – like up inclines or over stiles.<br />
Set your own pace and re-group every now and then.<br />
Choose what information you want to share, who with and how.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-11571715108132661892011-07-17T10:15:00.000+01:002012-04-25T12:13:02.566+01:00Networking - the merits of connecting locally<div class="MsoNormal">
Networking locally has been a useful activity for us at Henmore, even though are clients are UK wide, in Europe and USA. As a result of local networking we have:</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
</div>
<ul>
<li>formed associations with marketing specialists to offer a wider marketing service </li>
<li>worked collaboratively on new projects with the people we’ve met </li>
<li>been invited as a guest speaker at UK events and conferences </li>
<li>strengthened relationships with existing clients </li>
<li>gained many new business referrals that have generated new customers (thank you to those that have supported us) </li>
<li>built a network of ‘champions’ who help us spread the word about our local marketing training events and programmes </li>
<li>gained insight and feedback on our ideas </li>
<li>kept abreast of issues and events taking place in our local area </li>
<li>made some new friends</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
After trying various groups and organisations I have settled on a select few groups in my local region of Derbyshire and Staffordshire that suit my style. I regularly visit these groups: WiRE, Matlock Business Club, The Business Cub, at Chatsworth, Moorlands Networking, SPDTA.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am the facilitator of Matlock Business Club, which has enabled me to observe many people’s approach and consider my own.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Here are few thoughts about networking:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Attend with an open mind, go with the flow. Some people seem to judge an event by the number of business cards they collected. After assessing the benefits to Henmore of our networking activities, I am not convinced of that as an evaluation criterion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be friendly – you would think this would be obvious! Be friendly even to your competitors. I’ve heard some horror stories of people slinging some mud at their competitors (worse still dissing them in the one minute slot). Don’t go there . . .</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be open and welcoming. Approach those on the edge of the room; invite them into your conversations. As an extravert, I have to remind myself that some powerful business people are not necessarily natural networkers, so don’t overlook those looking on from the sidelines. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stay calm. If you spot an influential business person please don’t go all gaga around them. I’ve seen this happen and it is just weird.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Allow yourself to move on. Some people will monopolise you so be kind to yourself, and to them, and move them on to someone else or request permission to continue networking in the room. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keep your business card in reserve. I am not a fan of ‘card slinging’ networking events. Some people look for quantity rather than quality, but that doesn’t suit our business model. Unless it suits yours, save yourself the hassle of unsubscribing from a million mailing lists and hold back your details until you are asked for them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Introduce people within and across your networks – be the real-life face-to- face version of LinkedIn and Facebook.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Source and share in your networks. If you need something then ask from within your network of contacts. It sounds obvious, but if it is so obvious why do so few people do it? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In conclusion, I offer a gentle reminder that your network of contacts is not just a place to push your own wares.</div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-15784876032361176652011-07-15T11:48:00.005+01:002011-07-15T16:38:18.635+01:00Marketing & Technology - Ideas into ActionReally enjoyed the discussions with everyone at the event today. Thanks for listening to Chris Woodhouse and me doing our best to share some ideas and strategies to use technology for marketing improvement. Great to listen to fellow presenters Mathew (<a href="http://www.peakdistrictcreations.co.uk/">www.peakdistrictcreations.co.uk</a>) and Paul (<a href="http://www.spinlessplates.com/">www.spinlessplates.com</a>).<br />
<br />
I promised a link to the thoughts I shared on how to <a href="http://www.box.net/shared/ccuprd31qs3lczaucz6b">make marketing work for small businesses</a>. This takes you to a tool I use for sharing documents - box.net. Can be handy for sharing. It also allows collaborators or those you share documents with to leave comments. And it is free so hey, nothing lost.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Insights, ideas, strategies, ----> actions.</span><br />
Next steps:<br />
Here are a few ideas to encourage you to take further action - some are free, some are low cost and some are regular price but attract grant funding if you get your skates on and talk to our event hosts at Live & Work Rural.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Free, anytime, LinkedIn Form:</b> Join our private delegate forum on LinkedIn and post questions and discussions. We'll answer as appropriate, and maybe others will add the benefit of their experiences as well. Click for the <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=4001157">Marketing and Technology Series</a> forum on LinkedIn.<br />
<br />
<b>2. £30 <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">+ VAT</span>: Workshop facilitated by Catherine and Chris</b><br />
<b>Date: 20th July from 9.30am at Riber Rooms in Cromford</b><br />
Half day workshop delving into the detail of online marketing and social media. Further info: <a href="http://henmore.blogspot.com/p/marketing-technology-workshop-tutorial.html">Marketing and Technology Workshop</a><br />
<br />
<b>3. £3 approx: Teleconference Q&A. </b><br />
<b>Date: Thursday 21st July from 2pm</b> for approx an hour. <br />
All delegates of the Live & Work Rural Event are invited to phone in and join some of the panellists from the event today. All you need to pay is the cost of the call which the provider states is 4.3p/minute (so an hour session is approx £3). Ask your own questions or be inspired by those of others. We are using PowWow for this event: Telephone number is <b>0844 4 737373</b> and then you'll need to enter a PIN code. If you would like to join us on that call please contact us for the PIN (email: web@henmore.co.uk).<br />
If you would like to submit your question in advance it may help get a more precise reply in the time available.<br />
<br />
<b>4. One-to-one consultancy </b><br />
£400 <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ VAT</span> for 2 x half days (eligible for grant funding). <a href="http://henmore.blogspot.com/p/training-and-advice.html">Training and Advice</a><br />
Help to get your business properly set up for effective marketing and enabling appropriate use of technology. Making sure you are on track with everything. Either/both Chris and Catherine will come over and help get your business set up right for what you need to be doing. This consultancy and training package is eligible for grant funding if you're quick :-) ><br />
<br />
<b>5. Marketing Club </b><br />
£500<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+VAT</span> pa (eligible for grant funding): With 6 x group sessions combined with 2 x one-to-one consultancy sessions and a supportive peer group of fellow members makes this programme excellent value for money. We have members of this year-long marketing programme who are grant funded; again, be quick applying. > <a href="http://henmore.blogspot.com/2011/01/marketing-club-2011.html">Marketing Club</a><br />
<br />
And here is that thought-provoking YouTube clip, complete with cheesy music.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3SuNx0UrnEo" width="560"></iframe>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-46791211416404565522011-06-20T12:45:00.001+01:002011-07-15T10:40:35.201+01:00Brand management - moment of amusement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzArSPykTUVfb9LJogwgAoGJDkALcMFuuDhwf0XoACAKUCyunJeV1Vqn5lz_hj3l3JxK0B2hWn8nZlTfqpJwkD_hvLNBEnebxPXTEjKF2NdEF2dPS-WTotTQLitThyphenhyphenudPF8ucHFU1bdA/s1600/Google+LOL.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzArSPykTUVfb9LJogwgAoGJDkALcMFuuDhwf0XoACAKUCyunJeV1Vqn5lz_hj3l3JxK0B2hWn8nZlTfqpJwkD_hvLNBEnebxPXTEjKF2NdEF2dPS-WTotTQLitThyphenhyphenudPF8ucHFU1bdA/s400/Google+LOL.PNG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This morning I received a jolly note from a client pointing out a typo in the LinkedIn event information for my business development workshop this Wednesday. I gave myself a telling off, but then I tripped over this message from Google and now I feel a whole lot better. This has to be a fundamental brand management error for a leading search engine specialist. Quite fun though.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-84939513241791241562011-06-01T11:24:00.002+01:002011-06-02T11:08:49.573+01:00Take a netwalk<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">How about this for work life balance?</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">work bit is chatting about business and making/strengthening your connections with local business people</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">the life bit is enjoying some fabulous scenery and getting some exercise by walking 2.5 miles.</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">the balance bit is eating cake afterwards!</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">So this is netwalking. Try it with Matlock Business Club on Thursday June 30 and explore an unusual part of Derbyshire. Refreshments (that's the cake bit) are included.</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Rendezvous at the secluded Cliff Farm (Peak Serenity) with walking shoes laced up for 4.30 pm. Take in the fantastic views and explore the surrounding area with its woods, stone circles and mock beggars hall. We'll return to Cliffe Farm around 5.45 pm for refreshments and to carry on networking.</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYhYzkDsVNePaPT5tiyIStLtolSpQCPM6xmmcYQ8b09ybhnPfuQeTWdMd2WJRIgJs7FL-ER_F48uWDnNhotovxAlU4ogawwv1bWfgzIRNz1cfxOg3XtwHSuohOpeYAKPPKahRpIqQa1k/s1600/Mock+Beggars+Hall+RHS+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYhYzkDsVNePaPT5tiyIStLtolSpQCPM6xmmcYQ8b09ybhnPfuQeTWdMd2WJRIgJs7FL-ER_F48uWDnNhotovxAlU4ogawwv1bWfgzIRNz1cfxOg3XtwHSuohOpeYAKPPKahRpIqQa1k/s1600/Mock+Beggars+Hall+RHS+1.JPG" /></a></div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">After a welcome briefing by netwalking leader Paul Hunt from Skylark Activities (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: monospace; white-space: pre;"><a class="moz-txt-link-abbreviated" href="http://www.skylarkactivities.com/" target="_blank">www.skylarkactivities.com</a>)</span>we'll walk 2.5 miles along well defined paths and country lanes over typical Derbyshire hill farm country and through woods. A few stiles will be encountered but these shouldn't pose a barrier as you'll be in a group that helps each other and that's determined to see the points of interest in this part of Derbyshire.</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Location and Directions : Cliff Farm is on the lane between Elton and Alport. </div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Directions : Post Code for Google Maps and satnavs : DE45 1LL</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">There is a small charge of £5 ,which includes refreshments, and is payable on the day to Matlock Business Club . Book you place by email to info@colemanbradshaw.co.uk</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Distance : 2.5 miles / 4 Kilometres</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Terrain : Hill farm countryside of grassed fields and woodland.</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Well defined paths and country lane; some wooden styles and some squeeze styles.</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Points of Interest : Cratcliffe Rocks, Hermits Cave, Robin Hood Stride, Nine Stone Close Standing Stones , Harthill moor and woods</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Join Matlock Business Club online > <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Matlock-Business-Club-2344019">http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Matlock-Business-Club-2344019</a></div><div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-37123680559279210422011-05-26T13:56:00.003+01:002011-05-26T14:03:15.726+01:00Ideas and strategies into action - Like!A few months ago I ran a day's training on improving your online presence and using social media tools for business and one of the attendees was Lucy Cufflin, foodie and Cookery Writer. In the group there were experienced social media users and total sceptics. I hope that Lucy won't mind me saying that she came to the event yet to be convinced or the merits of any of it; persuaded to come by a business associate. And look at Lucy today, my goodness. She has three Facebook business pages. And check out the comment below if you can read it. . .<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TS1Gy2loQk5mTeZ8R1J1iCSxC0uE4YRznG0ElM9ZjOQvUVJOZdv76s-8AqVmw7P-vVraeG4Q2-VJhgUYk1cymGJ8mauox72xpBFIJJruT1My0j9PHDQYVuB3Pno6WiJXy_jAXdgOO_s/s1600/post+course+Lucy+Cufflin.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TS1Gy2loQk5mTeZ8R1J1iCSxC0uE4YRznG0ElM9ZjOQvUVJOZdv76s-8AqVmw7P-vVraeG4Q2-VJhgUYk1cymGJ8mauox72xpBFIJJruT1My0j9PHDQYVuB3Pno6WiJXy_jAXdgOO_s/s640/post+course+Lucy+Cufflin.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Lucy posts"bring your friends, spread the word" and the reply posts says . . . . (I love this bit) "I already am! facebook definitely works, every Friday I get reminded its cake day and almost every week I'm trying a new cake from you . . ."<br />
<br />
Lucy has found her online voice and things are going well. I am off to check up on how the other course attendees are doing now. <br />
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Next course June 15th - Cromford Mill.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-55895660659599981602011-05-20T17:32:00.006+01:002011-06-01T17:23:29.965+01:00Training and thinking, marketing forum 15th June, DerbyshireIdeas + Strategies -----> Making Connections<br />
We are planning a new style event on 15th June at Cromford Mill. We'll facilitate IT and Marketing-based subject discussions and provide the environment for you to join other forward-thinking business owners to take a little time out to concentrate on your business, generating ideas and workable strategies.<br />
<div>Broadly, the morning session will cover strategic marketing and IT subjects, delving into some how-to and top tips for success with the tools and techniques we showcase:</div><ul><li>Ways to keep in touch with your customers and create champions and referrers.</li>
<li>Seamless ways to collaborate with associates and present work to customers.</li>
<li>The mindset and toolset to create a more marketing-led organisation.</li>
</ul><div></div><div>. . . and it will be lively and interactive with presentations, case studies, thought-provoking exercises, peer group discussion. More than that we have built into the agenda an extended 'let's take that off-line' break-out session designed to be free flowing. Choose between the opportunity to pose detailed questions to the experts or engage in discussions and networking with other attendees.</div><div></div>Ideas & Strategies – Marketing and Technology <br />
<br />
9.30am – 12.15pm Facilitated interactive sessions (as above) <br />
12.45pm – 2pm Freeflow and break out sessions - Marketing and IT questions answered and debated.<br />
£15 + VAT (book in advance cw@cwoodhouse.com)<br />
Lunch and refreshments available at the on-site cafes <br />
<br />
Why not arrive early and include some breakfast networking taking place in the same room.<br />
7.30am - 9am Matlock Business Club – networking and business support group meets <br />
£5 including breakfast payable at the door (book in advance <a href="mailto:web@henmore.co.uk">web@henmore.co.uk</a>)<br />
Call or email us to reserve your places at these events.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-11904804048111815772011-03-22T13:54:00.003+00:002011-03-22T17:32:27.913+00:00Online Marketing Conference and Exhibition, #omce2011Spent a worthwhile day yesterday at the East Midlands Conference Centre visiting the OMCE event put on by @ebizclub. <br />
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I always find with these sorts of events that you sign up to go because an aspect of it is tempting, then come the night before all enthusiasm to take a day away from the office has evaporated because a long 'to do' list is beckoning. On this occasion I stuck to my resolve because managing online marketing is a service we offer clients and social media for business is one of Henmore's popular training events. I needed to check we are on the pulse of all that is new and vibrant in social media for business. We are! <br />
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I particularly enjoyed the presentation by Andrew Grill (@AndrewGrill). He made exactly the same comment that I always use to open my presentations: "Am I a social media guru? In social media there are no gurus, just practitioners." Things evolve very quickly in social media and even quite minor-sounding changes have far reaching implications for online marketing. Take the Facebook business page change a couple of weeks ago for example. And Google's changes to its algorithm always puts the cat amongst the pigeons - watch out for Panda Farming and some Google house-keeping is coming up as @IanLockwood explained in his fab presentation on the future of search.<br />
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During the conference and presentations some of us were tweeting our thoughts. As @IdeasStrategies we were having some fun with @somecallme_Jem, @zaddleMarketing, @davedawes, @tom_geraghty, @AndrewGrill (and somewhere on another continent @hotelPRguy tweeted that his ears were burning). <br />
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I just did the #omce2011 search on Twitter again (this is the day after) and I see others have just joined the fray. I guess they are doing the same as me, blogging and sharing their views on the day.<br />
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Well, it was worthwhile. Check Andrew Grills slides and enjoy the notion of the Twitter Tax.<br />
<div id="__ss_7332354" style="width: 425px;"><strong style="display: block; margin: 12px 0px 4px;"><a href="http://www.slideshare.net/andrewgrill/andrew-grill-omce2011-march-2011" title="Andrew Grill OMCE2011 March 2011">Andrew Grill OMCE2011 March 2011</a></strong> <object height="355" id="__sse7332354" width="425"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.slidesharecdn.com/swf/ssplayer2.swf?doc=emccandrewgrill21march11-110321061645-phpapp01&stripped_title=andrew-grill-omce2011-march-2011&userName=andrewgrill" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><embed name="__sse7332354" src="http://static.slidesharecdn.com/swf/ssplayer2.swf?doc=emccandrewgrill21march11-110321061645-phpapp01&stripped_title=andrew-grill-omce2011-march-2011&userName=andrewgrill" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="355"></embed> </object> <br />
<div style="padding-bottom: 12px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 5px;">View more <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/">presentations</a> from <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/andrewgrill">Andrew Grill</a> </div></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-50675182017583761082011-03-02T17:35:00.006+00:002011-03-17T16:12:22.686+00:00Marketing & Technology Workshops - spring 2011 series<em>Please view/download the flyer for the </em><a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B1sgPP4uTFQ_NmI2MGExZDktMWUyMS00ODg3LTllM2EtOGJmMzJiODhiMTdk&hl=en"><em>Marketing and Technology</em></a><em> tutorial events</em><br />
<br />
I co-presented a workshop recently with Chris Woodhouse, an IT and technology expert. We trialled the one event to see how it went. Quite honestly we were quite pleased with it. But obviously it is not what we think it is what the delegates thought of it, and it seems they were pleased with it too. Phew!<br />
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We were delighted to receive this comment on the LinkedIn page for the event: <span style="color: #b45f06;"> "Really enjoyed this workshop and came away with lots of practical ideas. Highly recommended."</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">Since then Chris and I have put our heads together and the result is a number of workshops on Marketing and Technology working together. </span><br />
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<strong>Is your website doing its job? Let's ask Google!</strong> - we take you through the best way to analyse your site traffic and interpret findings into a plan of action.<br />
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<strong>Grow your business using loads of free stuff</strong> - we short cut delegates to low cost / no cost marketing tools that we know work and demo case studies of clients that are doing a good job.<br />
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<strong>Can you improve your online marketing?</strong> - we help you assess whether your online marketing efforts are working and throw in some alternatives to consider.<br />
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<strong>Business development using The Cloud technology</strong> - using case studies we explore how to make the most of the tools already at your disposal and the software and gadgets that you can add for smarter marketing and business development.<br />
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More details on all of these tutorial workshops >> <a href="http://henmore.blogspot.com/p/marketing-technology-workshop-tutorial.html">Marketing & Technology</a><br />
Please add your name to Henmore's mailing list to be sure to receive details of our workshops, programmes and speaking engagements. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.henmore.blogspot.com/p/event-booking-form.html">REGISTER </a>- When you are ready you can book your place online.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-39397571895588548942011-01-10T16:52:00.009+00:002012-10-05T15:43:51.209+01:00Marketing Club 2012Marketing Club is one of my favourite services. I love the enthusiastic participation of everyone in the group and I am gratified by the positive steps that the business members take as a result.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyG-AFcdrYHskXXFU1t7MrWTUsvgoX8qUIlHq-dpX8XeWROdRdTSp_eleAfpqqi6rN3Up8NaETTWTczeKKqKOKSI7v_sBhy8YI80l_9Yczqn2fsLzehWBNuO7w9Vaek-bva9x-TXWcVg/s1600/workshop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyG-AFcdrYHskXXFU1t7MrWTUsvgoX8qUIlHq-dpX8XeWROdRdTSp_eleAfpqqi6rN3Up8NaETTWTczeKKqKOKSI7v_sBhy8YI80l_9Yczqn2fsLzehWBNuO7w9Vaek-bva9x-TXWcVg/s200/workshop2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henmore's Strictly Marketing group</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Business owners say they benefit from a sustained focus on their marketing over the year. Marketing Club is designed to help you find 'clarity' and 'certainty' in all areas of your business development. The primary aims of this long-term programme are to help you to do more business and to do that business on your preferred terms.<br />
<br />
This translates to minimising wasted effort and/or budget on sales and marketing, making sure you are selling at the right price and achieving maximum customer satisfaction. We know this is aiming high, but justifiably so because our Marketing Club members are benefiting from the positive results.<br />
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In the words of a Marketing Club Member:<br />
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<em><span style="color: #134f5c;">Strictly Marketing has provided me with the know-how and motivation to develop and implement a structured and focussed marketing strategy for my business.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></em><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><em>Catherine’s step-by step approach, one-to-one mentoring and engaging group sessions enable businesses to adopt a professional approach to DIY marketing. It saves time and gets results. Highly recommended and great value.</em> </span><span style="color: black;">Chris Mills, Barlow Associates</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">What we cover in Marketing Club?</span><br />
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During the group sessions and in the one-to-one sales & marketing consultancy sessions, we build knowledge and improve techniques in the following marketing essentials:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Know the customers you want to win</li>
<li>Establish a strong brand and generate strong sales leads</li>
<li>Understand the available methods to reach your customer types</li>
<li>Position your products and services to wow your prospective customers</li>
<li>Communicate effectively with prospects and customers</li>
<li>Convert more sales, doing business on your terms</li>
<li>Evaluate what works and what doesn't</li>
<li>Help your customers become your champions</li>
<li>Extend your successes further into the market and/or enter new market segments</li>
</ul>
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Workshops are held six times a year on dates/times agreed with the group. There is networking and meeting room space available before and afterwards. We meet at Dove Studio, Ellastone, DE6 2GY.<br />
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Enjoy the extra encouragement via the peer support and feedback of other group members. Come along and address those hard, strategic questions: is your business approaching the best customers, in the best way, at the best time, with the best products? Is there more you could be doing? How will you find out what is working and what needs improvement? Make sure your ideas are put into practice in a structured way.<br />
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<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
More Marketing Club
Members' comments:</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><span style="color: #134f5c;">"Many thanks for
the speedy response - and really useful feedback. It's so hard to be
objective when promoting your own business."</span></i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><span style="color: #134f5c;">"I think there's a
lot of 'marketing tips' on offer through events and online, and
people tend miss the point - one size does not fit all, and though
general advice can be helpful, successful marketing needs to be right
for your business and you personally. In the same vein, although a
'quick hit' can be effective, keeping your marketing going is
crucial, and this is where ongoing support, that can be tailored to
your particular circumstances, is invaluable...and where Marketing
Club really fits the bill."</span></i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><span style="color: #134f5c;">"Marketing Club is
good use of my time and budget"</span></i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
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<em><span style="color: #134f5c;">“I am a member of Catherine's Marketing Club which is a fantastic opportunity to receive professional marketing advice, expertly tailored to my business, at a reasonable cost. The club consists of a group of businesses with bi-monthly meetings facilitated by Catherine. These meetings are highly practical, informative and enjoyable. Club members also benefit from regular a one to one session with Catherine. These are an excellent follow-up to the group sessions. I can really see how my business is benefiting from this regular and focussed input. I also very much value the input of the other group members and find it an ideal forum to get honest feedback on my ideas and strategies. All in all, highly recommended.”</span></em> A recommendation from Frances Taylor, Brightspark Training, posted on our LinkedIn page.<br />
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Venue: Dove Training Suite, Ellastone, DE6 2GY. To join one of these programmes please email us on <a href="mailto:web@henmore.co.uk">web@henmore.co.uk</a> or call Catherine on 01335 289075Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-90172440856315896052010-10-18T12:05:00.000+01:002012-10-05T15:46:59.097+01:00Marketing and use of Social Media<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLl1z350LPe-m2jemAGTldmFP6RhejjJLLJNXlzaeBpmK-zGlMUvkT7vQ_V1oylddU4NGIYjx2dnsfiDaJMzgDSJNf3u-qxJmpkyHAUi2dri15ObdzvG5yQk-NisOSSq8gB-BTERphQ8/s1600/Circle+Graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLl1z350LPe-m2jemAGTldmFP6RhejjJLLJNXlzaeBpmK-zGlMUvkT7vQ_V1oylddU4NGIYjx2dnsfiDaJMzgDSJNf3u-qxJmpkyHAUi2dri15ObdzvG5yQk-NisOSSq8gB-BTERphQ8/s400/Circle+Graphic.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henmore's virtuous circle of marketing communications diagram illustrates the marketing challenges businesses need to address.</td></tr>
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During the workshops this week we helped businesses with the use of Social Media in their marketing. Participants came armed with laptops and applied changes to their online presence during the workshop. I am driven by a determination to help businesses translate ideas into workable strategies, that they succeed in putting into action, gaining desired results. It is not enough for me to see people scribbling notes of their good intentions, because I have experienced those intentions myself and subsequently lost the piece of paper (or the good intentions). We all know about this inevitable loss of momentum. That's why I like interactive workshops and year plus programmes like our Marketing Club.<br />
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Last week people in the room were there to make changes. But of course we worked our way towards that part of the workshop. First of all we looked at the challenges faced by businesses in generic terms, referencing Henmore's much-referred-to trademark diagram (as shown above). Each workshop participant in the room articulated the particular marketing communications challenges that were a priority for them. Then we took action on the laptops.<br />
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I am sure someone once advised it is high risk to present live in an environment of children, animals and IT. We only had live IT, and it seemed to work OK on this occasion.<br />
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As presenter and facilitator I really enjoyed the sessions and the enthusiasm of the business owners in the room. I would like to thank everyone for all the positive comments and the reviews and recommendations that we have received as a result. And I would like to thank Jane Stretton at Dove Studios for the refreshments and the perfectly functioning IT connections.<br />
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If you would like to join one of our marketing and social media training courses in Staffordshire or Derbyshire please check our upcoming events or sign up to receive email invitations.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4880343847296872561.post-7470378600519995822010-10-11T14:26:00.001+01:002010-10-11T14:34:41.512+01:00Is the customer king, more than ever before?Do you remember that old phrase 'The Customer is King'? <br />
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It was an adage that businesses had to regard, because unhappy customers had the annoying habit of muttering their displeasure around the local community. The result was that businesses had to take note and make improvements, assuming improvements were necessary. Either that, or the community made an assessment of the mutterings, filtering out the ramblings of the odd unhappy customer on the basis they were probably maladjusted or had a personal vendetta. Easy enough to spot – then as now. <br />
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I was particularly interested in the TripAdvisor debate and the views of various commentators and phone-in participants. I was reassured that people said they'd ignore someone whose user name is something like 'ChocChipCookie' making a personally damning observation along the lines of “the hotel owner is aggressive and a sexist racist and you shouldn't stay in her/his hotel . . .”<br />
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True, Social Media does give King Customer an instant voice. These tools take us back to hyper local ways, albeit across a global economy. I was just researching the latest views on social media tools for this weeks workshops and was reading a blog article on <a href="http://www.socialmediatoday.com/arnoldwaldstein/199684/social-media%E2%80%A6few-rules-powerful-tools-endless-opportunities">Social Media Today</a> on which I just had to leave a comment. It said:<br />
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“One happy and connected customer can start a spiraling of praise which can hyper accelerate building a global brand. And one maligned (or maladjusted) unhappy customer can put the breaks on a multi-million dollar campaign and bring pain to a huge company.”<br />
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I said I thought the author was exaggerating. Huge brands have so much consumer interaction that a few negative comments are drowned out. <br />
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Many would sign off their blog criticism with #justsaying (on Twitter) or Just sayin' (on a blog comment). This always reminds me of when people say “no offence, but . . .” It's fun this social media, isn't it? A couple of opinionated people on different continents having their say, jostling for position and recognition by being slightly critical but mainly in agreement. <br />
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The author's main thought, about the struggle businesses have on Social Media in finding their voice and putting on a face, is a point on which I wholeheartedly concur.<br />
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As I said, I am meant to be researching social media views in preparation for the workshops on Wednesday and Thursday this week when I was distracted by this blog post, and just had to leave a comment. . .and then had a coffee and thought a bit more about it and decided to write this blog on the subject . . . and have it feed through to facebook, twitter and LinkedIn.<br />
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It was a time-consuming distraction . . . . a sign of the times for sure.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03736034055065533323noreply@blogger.com0