Sandra Lee

A simple definition of marketing is engaging people to “Know, Like and Trust You,” so that you may help solve their problems - or help them have what they want – so they buy from you, and ultimately become your referral champions.

I spent five hours on Sunday, focusing on a love of mine, photography.  And, it reminded me of a very important marketing lesson for business, current economic issues and much more.

A new perspective on focus:  Did you know that when you photograph something through a wire care, the wire disappears when you put your focus on the subject?  Yes, it does.  I was a certain “doubting Thomas” at first.  Still, amazing!  It is true.  Take a look.  This beautiful bald eagle was shot through wire cares at the Fort Worth Zoo.  Amazing!!!

read more

If you’ve cracked a newspaper or turned on the news lately, it’s all doom and gloom about the economy, market volatility and outlooks on business.  The continuing financial crisis has left business owners on edge, causing many to do just the opposite of what they should be doing.  Hopefully, you are not one of those frightened ones … making emotional versus rational, practical decisions to propel your business forward in any economy.

Looming financial questions have negatively impacted economies around the world.  No country or region has been completely isolated from the financial storm.  Here at home, companies large and small are scrapping plans to introduce new products.  Cutbacks on marketing are some of the first considered.  This is exactly the wrong thing to do. Now is the time to be bold and take action to grow your business — especially small businesses.  This economy demands that you become known, liked and trusted enough for people to buy from you.  Trusted enough for them to allow you to become their solution.

Now is the time, more than ever, to have an actual marketing plan to ensure this is the case.  And then work the daylights out of that plan.  Think about it.  When are your prospects more likely to see and respond to your marketing?  In boom times, when they’re being bombarded with advertising and promotions from all of your competitors … or, in lean times when your competitors stop contacting them? Now is the best time to grow your business. read more