Blog

Many firms don’t know who their most profitable customers are, let alone how to keep them coming back to their business. In difficult times, customer loyalty may be your greatest weapon. Derek Bishop of Culture Consultancy explains how to get it, keep it and make it work for you I often come across businesses that struggle to […]

Twitter, Facebook, email, websites and texts – there are many ways to keep in contact with your customers. But did you know that your office phone system can improve customer service, increase sales and boost profits? Rachel Miller reports Communications technology moves fast. Social media and smartphones are transforming the way we do business. But while you’re running to […]

Branding is just as important for small businesses as it is for big names. Indeed, many corporate brands try to look more like small firms in order to appeal to consumers that prefer to support independent brands. Dan Einzig of agency Mystery explains how to develop your own brand identity Many small business owners I talk to […]

Reliable customers are the lifeblood of every business. But putting all your eggs in one basket of one or two big clients can be a risky strategy Finding loyal customers can feel like winning the lottery – it means predictable cashflow, secure profits and a platform for growth. However, having the lion’s share of your […]

While many organizations work hard at chasing and seducing new prospects, they risk missing the opportunity to grow by increasing the value of existing customers The good thing about encouraging the customers you already have to use more of your products or services is that it needn’t cost much money. Just use every bit of […]

Both direct mail and email marketing come under the general heading of direct marketing, and both have their own distinct strengths. However, if you integrate both into a single campaign, you could see even greater results. Here we look at how integrating direct mail and email can boost your campaigns. How direct mail compares to email […]

The phrase “mature market” can quickly conjure up clichéd images of retired couples strolling on the beach, or a frail elderly person in an armchair. And yet this huge and lucrative market is no niche – it encompasses consumers from all walks of life who just happen to be over a certain age. Rachel Miller […]

Marketing isn’t cheap, so it’s understandable that business owners look for value for money and often that results in a strategy that targets a large audience. But that can be a mistake. Imagine you sell petrol lawnmowers. You might be tempted to target people with an interest in gardening. But some enthusiastic gardeners live in […]

No business today can afford to rest on its laurels. Your business may be keeping up with economic and market changes but is your brand keeping pace? Sookie Shuen, digital and social media specialist, explains how to decide if your business needs a rebrand How much could your company benefit from a timely rebranding exercise? […]

An effective sales strategy is an essential part of building a growing business. A well-thought out strategy lets you make the best use of your resources and ensure a co-ordinated approach across the business. Your strategy should be underpinned by clear objectives and a thorough understanding of your customers and the market. Key issues include […]