It takes time, knowledge and effort to get results. If it were an equation it would look something like this (Time + Knowledge + Effort = RESULTS). An easy way to get more results is by increasing any or all three of these things.
But we want MORE results in less time, not just results. How is that possible you say? Simple, by finding a way to duplicate your time, compensate for lack of knowledge all while using less effort, aka hiring. Hiring someone would be ideal and seems to be the obvious solution, right? Well, what can you do when hiring is not a valid option right now?
Relax! There’s a tool for that. Consider these marketing tools when trying to maximize your results.
How often do you forget about an awesome place you’ve been to eat, drink, hangout, exercise, etc. simply because you don’t pass it on your way home or don’t read, hear or see anything about it on a regular basis?
Because people are forgetful and don’t remember what they ate, where they parked, what they did… yesterday:
Remind them of who you are, what you do and why they need it today. Create a Newsletter. A newsletter will allow you to stay in front of and top of mind to your customers.
You can remind them of your services and why they chose you to help them in the past by showcasing recent work and reviews, keeping them informed of new services you offer and specials you’re running, inviting them out to events you’re hosting or attending or providing them with useful information.
Recommendation: MailChimp MailChimp
Did you know the recommendation for business social posting is at least 3 times a day? Are you currently posting industry related business information regularly on social media?
Your own personal social post assistant or minion:
Buffer and tools like it give you the ability to create future posts for all of your social media accounts in one location and schedule when you would like them to be posted. Ingenious.
To take full advantage of this wonderful tool, you’ll have to do some planning. So if you’re a procrastinator this may not work for you. If planning is your thing, you’ll be in love. A bit of effort up front will save you some stress in the long run.
Recommendation: (you guessed it) Buffer
As an entrepreneur, business or agency owner or creative, I know you're full of ideas right? But with so many ideas, it is often hard to identify what to do first.
Straight from the horse's mouth:
There is not enough time in the world to implement every business changing idea that comes to you. So, how can you determine what idea to move forward with next?
Whether you believe it to be true or not, it's simple; ask and you shall receive. Don’t guess what people want… ask (survey your current customers). Not sure what service to offer next, wondering how your new receptionist is fairing with customers, or how a newly introduced product was received; ASK.
Recommendation: Survey Monkey
Is there a place for prospects to read reviews or case studies about people you’ve helped? Are you capturing the things your customers are saying about you?
Give them a soapbox to stand on! Or a place to leave a review:
Because we all want to give our 2 cents (some more than others) and word of mouth is still one of the most powerful forms of advertising, plus, need I add; it's FREE people.
Not sure how to ask? Make reviewing a part of your sales process. Let your customer know up front that you would appreciate it if they would provide a review of their experience with you at the end of the process.
It's all about setting expectations. If they know up front, they will be more likely to accommodate your request and smile while doing it. After they leave you a raving review, spread the word, publish it.
Recommendation: Google Reviews
Tired of wearing so many hats? Are you currently using any software to help you manage your prospects, customers, marketing or sales efforts?
Auto pilot:
Get automated. Use a CRM or the creme de la creme of CRMs, HubSpot. HubSpot is much more than a CRM. It's an all encompasing InBound Marketing tool! Using HubSpot you have the ability to develop marketing campaigns showcasing your different services.
You can create blogs, landing pages, thank you pages, personas, automated workflows, etc. You can monitor site visibility, your marketing efforts, see what’s working and what isn’t, solicit feedback, compare your business with businesses in similar industries and SO MUCH more.
Recommendation: (we’re you paying attention) HubSpot
Not sure where to start with your marketing efforts or how to implement these tools on your own? We’re here to help! Let us assess your current efforts and help you reach your goals.
