Editor's Picks
Tehran online#Iran Election blogMeagan Wheeler, H&K New York, 2009
At the peak of the crisis following the Iranian election, Twitter saw more than 200,000 tweets an hour mentioning ‘Iran’ while more than 21 million blog posts and 193,000 videos relating to the events were uploaded. The power of social media to bypass state control and connect citizens in such crises is unprecedented, and highlights the urgent need for the public relations industry to make social media a core part of communications strategy.
Beijing bilateralThe Obama Administration and China: what does the future hold?Scott Kronick, 2009
The Obama presidency is hardly short of tough and important issues to confront in its early days, and here’s another one: what to do about China? The relationship between the two is “arguably the world’s most significant trading alliance” but it’s changing fast as China finds itself the largest owner of US debt, to the tune of some $2 trillion, and has the opportunity to snap up assets in America’s waning economy. The two countries must also face up to some serious trade and geopolitical issues. Ogilvy’s Scott Kronick looks at how each of these might pan out and sketches the key players on the US side.
Also in Public RelationsSee all
PR Professional of the Year 2009PRWeek US, 2009Marcia Silverman is a leader, an advocate, and a pioneer. Since she was named CEO of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide in 2002, Silverman has pushed for growth at every level. Fittingly, during her 27 years at the agency, Ogilvy PR has more than tripled revenues and US staff.
Crisis Management and the Half-Second News CyclePaul Walker, 2007Before the Internet, companies had the relative luxury of managing crises in 24-hour news cycles since that is how the media operated. Today, business issues and corporate crises escalate instantaneously because hundreds of thousands of posts on blogs, and within forums, social networks, newsgroups and wikis are created every half second, sometimes to report on corporate issues and crises. We call this phenomenon the "half-second news cycle."
PR: What to Do When the Public Does Most of the RelatingJohn H. Bell, 2007John H. Bell of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide argues that definition of "media" has exploded, and that effective communications has as much to do with building relationships through conversations and word of mouth as it does with marketing campaigns and message delivery. But how do we create effective communications programs when peer-to-peer recommendations are the new form of "earned media"?
The PR Opportunity In IcelandGudjon Palsson, 2006Gudjon Palsson of GCI Iceland examines how until the present time, the Icelandic PR style has been more of a "shoot-from-the-hip" approach, but as the exposure of Icelandic companies to international markets has increased so dramatically over the past years the demand for more cultivated PR has risen. GCI Iceland's view is that the Icelandic PR market possesses vast possibilities for PR firms that apply the methodological approach.
Monday, September 28, 2009
MARKETING
Editor's Picks
Beyond price What is a real recession response? Roz Calder, 2009
The kneejerk response from marketers during the downturn is to focus on price and offer a better deal; yet the best response would be to examine the emotional and psychological needs of consumers, and how their customers value the products and services they deliver. What consumers are looking for can be characterized by a series of archetypes – and successful marketers will be those who understand where they fit in to the picture.
Islamic insightsUnderstanding the Islamic consumerMonita Vohra, Gagan Bhalla and Aurobindo Chowdhury, 2009
Of the world’s untapped consumer markets, the Muslim world, with its 1.4bn people making up a fifth of the global population, has to be one of the most significant. This research project conducted jointly by JWT and AMRB across 10 countries, goes a long way towards finding out what Muslim consumers want. Marketers should avoid stereotypes and treating this enormous group as if they are all the same, the study argues. Like all consumers, Muslims can be segmented according to their values and attitudes –so it’s as well to know if your target is a New Age Muslim or a Religious Conservative.
Also in MarketingSee all
Why the rural market is differentJWT, 2009First in a series of articles on rural markets by Ratan Malli, strategic planning director, Northeast Asia, JWT.
Join 'em, fight 'em, or move away from 'em: three approaches to beating low-price competitors at their own gameLandor, 2008Low-cost, 'value-plus' brands could be the toughest competiton your brand has to face. Here are three strategies for taking them on.
Polishing apples to Posh Spice (assorted essays)Jeremy Bullmore, 1997-2009Jeremy Bullmore’s essays for the WPP Annual Report have become an eagerly-awaited and much-referenced source of insight into the practice of marketing.
Marketing Is Dead; Long Live MarketingMartin Bishop, 2009The era of the beat-the-consumer-into-submission marketing approach is over. Companies are better served by focusing on innovation, customer experience, and a focused value proposition.
A Modest ProposalRachel Carpenter, 2008"As the world wakes up to the perils of excess consumption, is the marketing discipline condemned to be principal villain?" That was the question tackled by Atticus essayists around the world last year. Read Rachel Carpenter's ingenious response.
DigiMarketing: The Essential Guide To New Media & Digital MarketingKent Wertime & Ian Fenwick, 2008DigiMarketing provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the major digital channels being used. This includes explanations of the key trends in mobile marketing, blogging, games, digital media, digital point-of-sale, Web 2.0, and consumer created content.
Getting Serious About 360 CommunicationsSue Elms, 2008Sue Elms of Millward Brown examines the significant but elusive promise of 360 communications.
Beyond price What is a real recession response? Roz Calder, 2009
The kneejerk response from marketers during the downturn is to focus on price and offer a better deal; yet the best response would be to examine the emotional and psychological needs of consumers, and how their customers value the products and services they deliver. What consumers are looking for can be characterized by a series of archetypes – and successful marketers will be those who understand where they fit in to the picture.
Islamic insightsUnderstanding the Islamic consumerMonita Vohra, Gagan Bhalla and Aurobindo Chowdhury, 2009
Of the world’s untapped consumer markets, the Muslim world, with its 1.4bn people making up a fifth of the global population, has to be one of the most significant. This research project conducted jointly by JWT and AMRB across 10 countries, goes a long way towards finding out what Muslim consumers want. Marketers should avoid stereotypes and treating this enormous group as if they are all the same, the study argues. Like all consumers, Muslims can be segmented according to their values and attitudes –so it’s as well to know if your target is a New Age Muslim or a Religious Conservative.
Also in MarketingSee all
Why the rural market is differentJWT, 2009First in a series of articles on rural markets by Ratan Malli, strategic planning director, Northeast Asia, JWT.
Join 'em, fight 'em, or move away from 'em: three approaches to beating low-price competitors at their own gameLandor, 2008Low-cost, 'value-plus' brands could be the toughest competiton your brand has to face. Here are three strategies for taking them on.
Polishing apples to Posh Spice (assorted essays)Jeremy Bullmore, 1997-2009Jeremy Bullmore’s essays for the WPP Annual Report have become an eagerly-awaited and much-referenced source of insight into the practice of marketing.
Marketing Is Dead; Long Live MarketingMartin Bishop, 2009The era of the beat-the-consumer-into-submission marketing approach is over. Companies are better served by focusing on innovation, customer experience, and a focused value proposition.
A Modest ProposalRachel Carpenter, 2008"As the world wakes up to the perils of excess consumption, is the marketing discipline condemned to be principal villain?" That was the question tackled by Atticus essayists around the world last year. Read Rachel Carpenter's ingenious response.
DigiMarketing: The Essential Guide To New Media & Digital MarketingKent Wertime & Ian Fenwick, 2008DigiMarketing provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the major digital channels being used. This includes explanations of the key trends in mobile marketing, blogging, games, digital media, digital point-of-sale, Web 2.0, and consumer created content.
Getting Serious About 360 CommunicationsSue Elms, 2008Sue Elms of Millward Brown examines the significant but elusive promise of 360 communications.
Finding Customers
Finding Customers
Article Archive
Growing Green Revenues
How alligning value with values can win sales in the office supply industry
Harness the Power of 'Freemium'
Learn when--and how--to start charging for your web service without starting a riot.
The Human Approach
Focus less on making your pitch and more on listening to what your customers need.
Get Back to Basics--and Bricks
Stand out in a crowded online marketplace by opening a traditional storefront.
Frustration Fuels a New Business Idea
This entrepreneur hit it big by sharing her problem--and the solution--with the world.
A Journalist’s Melting Pot
Helium helps online writers' voices be heard above the noise.
4 Ways to Boost Business With a Blog
Share information, interact with customers and boost your brand--blogs are the perfect way to keep you on top of your industry.
Young and in Charge
Young entrepreneurs can earn client trust and establish credibility.
Look Good Online
The only way to control what people say about your company is to be part of the conversation.
Girl Power
Want to grab a powerful niche market with growing potential? find out what women want.
Specialists Win More Referrals
If you claim to do everything, your clients won't rely on you for anything.
Generating More Referrals
There are plenty of opportunities to develop quality referrals--you just have to look for them.
Taking Customers With You When You Start a Business
If you've decided to break off on your own and launch a business that's competition to your former employer, heed these words of wisdom from a business law expert.
Marketing to Other Entrepreneurs
If you're marketing to other business owners, you need to offer the 7 things they want most--and learn how you can deliver them.
23 Hours to a Great Marketing Plan
The countdown has started: With these simple steps, you're less than a day away from creating marketing magic.
Get PR for Your New Business
Follow these smart tips to get PR coverage for your new business.
8 Ways to Improve Your Visibility
Your business may be on a budget, but you can still pump up your visibility. These 8 proven tactics will get you noticed on the cheap.
21 Ways to Bring in the Business
Despite your desperate hopes and prayers, business isn't just going to wander into your business. You need to get out there and hustle, and we've got the tips to help you do it.
99 Tips for Direct-Mail Marketing
Kick your marketing into high gear with these 99 ways to get customers to open your mail.
Building Buzz in a New Market
Ready to grow your business? Follow this step-by-step approach to winning new customers.
33 Tips for Marketing Success
Make a point of practicing three to five marketing activities every day, and you'll soon develop a successful marketing habit.
Finding Customers Fast
Use these four smart ways to increase leads and sales this summer.
Promote Your Business With Coupons and Contests
Find out why offering customers coupons or giving them free products is beneficial for your business.
Promote Your Business With Coupons and Contests
Find out why offering customers coupons or giving them free products is beneficial for your business.
Neighborhood Marketing Tactics
Use your creativity and marketing smarts to attract a loyal following of local businesspeople and residents.
7 Relationship-Building Strategies for Your Business
Try these tactics to get customers to think of your company first.
Credibility is King
In markets where every customer is an expert, authenticity is the key to success.
Figuring Out Your Competive Advantage
Boost sales by selling customers on your competitive advantage.
Back to top »
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
* Help a small business win $100,000 in grant and marketing support from American Express
Create a Marketing Plan
Plan for Success
Get your marketing off on the right foot by creating a comprehensive marketing plan. Our how-to will show you the step-by-step process.
* Marketing Plan Basics
* Researching Your Market
* Ingredients of a Marketing Plan
* Planning Checklist
Research Your Market
Time to Meet Your Customers
Don't let a lack of reseearch ruin your marketing efforts. Learn who your customers really are:
* Gathering Competitive Intelligence
* Market Research on a Shoestring
* Test Your Product or Service First
More on Market Research »
Marketing
Marketing
with Kim T. Gordon
Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
Instead of jumping from trend to trend follow these 6 steps for marketing that really works.
Selected articles by Kim T. Gordon
* Reverse Your Fortune With Sound Marketing
* Target Moms' Buying Power
* 3 Tips for Successful Green Marketing
More articles »
Resource Nation
Find Pre-Screened Startup Experts
* Incorporation
* Web Design
* Online Marketing
* SEO
* Appointment Setting
* Credit Card Processing
* Business Plan Services
View all 80 categories »
[Business Startup Kits]
Looking to start a business? Get industry overviews of 30 different businesses you can start today.
Startup Kits Menu
# Food Businesses Bar/Club
# Restaurant
# Retail Ideas Day Spa and Hair Salon
# Retail Business
# Clothing Store
# Mail Order
# Bed and Breakfast
# Pet Business
# Kid-Focused Business
# Wholesale Distribution Business
# Travel Service
# Home Design Business
# Maintenance Cleaning Service
# Coin-Operated Laundry
# Lawn Care or Landscaping Service
# Internet Business Home Design Business
# Personal Services Child Care
# Wedding Consultant
# Personal Concierge
# Gift Basket
# Event Planning
# College Planning Consultant
# Business Services Consulting
# Medical Claims Processing
# Personal Concierge
# Import/Export
# Information Consultant
# Freight Brokerage
# Seminar Production
# Staffing Service
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Increase revenue with cutting-edge marketing advice
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The bestselling marketing series of all time, in one great package!
Learn more »
Article Archive
Growing Green Revenues
How alligning value with values can win sales in the office supply industry
Harness the Power of 'Freemium'
Learn when--and how--to start charging for your web service without starting a riot.
The Human Approach
Focus less on making your pitch and more on listening to what your customers need.
Get Back to Basics--and Bricks
Stand out in a crowded online marketplace by opening a traditional storefront.
Frustration Fuels a New Business Idea
This entrepreneur hit it big by sharing her problem--and the solution--with the world.
A Journalist’s Melting Pot
Helium helps online writers' voices be heard above the noise.
4 Ways to Boost Business With a Blog
Share information, interact with customers and boost your brand--blogs are the perfect way to keep you on top of your industry.
Young and in Charge
Young entrepreneurs can earn client trust and establish credibility.
Look Good Online
The only way to control what people say about your company is to be part of the conversation.
Girl Power
Want to grab a powerful niche market with growing potential? find out what women want.
Specialists Win More Referrals
If you claim to do everything, your clients won't rely on you for anything.
Generating More Referrals
There are plenty of opportunities to develop quality referrals--you just have to look for them.
Taking Customers With You When You Start a Business
If you've decided to break off on your own and launch a business that's competition to your former employer, heed these words of wisdom from a business law expert.
Marketing to Other Entrepreneurs
If you're marketing to other business owners, you need to offer the 7 things they want most--and learn how you can deliver them.
23 Hours to a Great Marketing Plan
The countdown has started: With these simple steps, you're less than a day away from creating marketing magic.
Get PR for Your New Business
Follow these smart tips to get PR coverage for your new business.
8 Ways to Improve Your Visibility
Your business may be on a budget, but you can still pump up your visibility. These 8 proven tactics will get you noticed on the cheap.
21 Ways to Bring in the Business
Despite your desperate hopes and prayers, business isn't just going to wander into your business. You need to get out there and hustle, and we've got the tips to help you do it.
99 Tips for Direct-Mail Marketing
Kick your marketing into high gear with these 99 ways to get customers to open your mail.
Building Buzz in a New Market
Ready to grow your business? Follow this step-by-step approach to winning new customers.
33 Tips for Marketing Success
Make a point of practicing three to five marketing activities every day, and you'll soon develop a successful marketing habit.
Finding Customers Fast
Use these four smart ways to increase leads and sales this summer.
Promote Your Business With Coupons and Contests
Find out why offering customers coupons or giving them free products is beneficial for your business.
Promote Your Business With Coupons and Contests
Find out why offering customers coupons or giving them free products is beneficial for your business.
Neighborhood Marketing Tactics
Use your creativity and marketing smarts to attract a loyal following of local businesspeople and residents.
7 Relationship-Building Strategies for Your Business
Try these tactics to get customers to think of your company first.
Credibility is King
In markets where every customer is an expert, authenticity is the key to success.
Figuring Out Your Competive Advantage
Boost sales by selling customers on your competitive advantage.
Back to top »
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
* Help a small business win $100,000 in grant and marketing support from American Express
Create a Marketing Plan
Plan for Success
Get your marketing off on the right foot by creating a comprehensive marketing plan. Our how-to will show you the step-by-step process.
* Marketing Plan Basics
* Researching Your Market
* Ingredients of a Marketing Plan
* Planning Checklist
Research Your Market
Time to Meet Your Customers
Don't let a lack of reseearch ruin your marketing efforts. Learn who your customers really are:
* Gathering Competitive Intelligence
* Market Research on a Shoestring
* Test Your Product or Service First
More on Market Research »
Marketing
Marketing
with Kim T. Gordon
Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
Instead of jumping from trend to trend follow these 6 steps for marketing that really works.
Selected articles by Kim T. Gordon
* Reverse Your Fortune With Sound Marketing
* Target Moms' Buying Power
* 3 Tips for Successful Green Marketing
More articles »
Resource Nation
Find Pre-Screened Startup Experts
* Incorporation
* Web Design
* Online Marketing
* SEO
* Appointment Setting
* Credit Card Processing
* Business Plan Services
View all 80 categories »
[Business Startup Kits]
Looking to start a business? Get industry overviews of 30 different businesses you can start today.
Startup Kits Menu
# Food Businesses Bar/Club
# Restaurant
# Retail Ideas Day Spa and Hair Salon
# Retail Business
# Clothing Store
# Mail Order
# Bed and Breakfast
# Pet Business
# Kid-Focused Business
# Wholesale Distribution Business
# Travel Service
# Home Design Business
# Maintenance Cleaning Service
# Coin-Operated Laundry
# Lawn Care or Landscaping Service
# Internet Business Home Design Business
# Personal Services Child Care
# Wedding Consultant
# Personal Concierge
# Gift Basket
# Event Planning
# College Planning Consultant
# Business Services Consulting
# Medical Claims Processing
# Personal Concierge
# Import/Export
# Information Consultant
# Freight Brokerage
# Seminar Production
# Staffing Service
Related Products
Marketing Made Easy
Increase revenue with cutting-edge marketing advice
Learn more »
Guerrilla Marketing in 30 Days
The bestselling marketing series of all time, in one great package!
Learn more »
Get Back to Basics--and Bricks
Not too long ago, an aspiring entrepreneur opened a business in an office or storefront and if things were going well, expanded the business by launching a website to attract customers beyond the immediate market. An online presence helped a business to stand out from the crowd. Today, the first step many entrepreneurs take is to create a website, as a business cannot survive without an online presence anymore.
However, the internet is quickly becoming a crowded marketplace and a number of small business owners have actually decided to reverse the trend of the past few years by going back to brick-and-mortar.
An internet business selling jewelry for weddings--bridal pieces and bridesmaid gifts, for example--can very easily get lost in the crowd. An online search for bridal jewelry returns over 66 million results. Silverland Jewelry owner Ray Paquette decided the odds were strong he would not be found in a simple online search. He worked to optimize his website so his business landed in the top page or two of search results and his online business has done quite well since he launched it in 2005. However, he wanted to do more.
Paquette made the decision to open a brick-and-mortar store for a number of reasons. With 98 percent of his online orders coming from out-of-state, Paquette--based in Raleigh, N.C.--wanted more local foot traffic and to keep a closer eye on his inventory. Not to mention that a centralized production area gives him “better control of the product.”
A storefront also gives his customers the opportunity to see the jewelry in person--sometimes to even see the jewelry being made. Several of Silverland’s artisans work out of the store, so customers can see how custom jewelry is made. One of Paquette’s concerns about his online offerings was that a webpage did not give the customer a true sense of scale and proportion, something easily rectified with a display case in a store.
For many of the same reasons, online clothing retailer Chan Namgong also opened a brick-and-mortar location after building a successful internet business. Namgong’s site, for his online women’s clothing business Bevello provides the models’ measurements and corresponding sizes for customers to compare with their own measurements, he decided the time was right to open a store to increase foot traffic, and cash flow, to “nurture the online business.”
Both entrepreneurs saw an opportunity in the real estate market and realized that this was the time to secure a physical location for their growing businesses. With many businesses closing and commercial property emptying, they were able to secure deals on their new stores that certainly contributed to their decisions. Both Paquette and Namgong said that they would not have been able to open their brick-and-mortar locations without the solid foundation of successful online businesses already in place.
The consensus seems to be that retailers must maintain their online presence since most shoppers begin with a search online, even for local stores. As Namgong pointed out, “some people are never going to shop online but some people want to shop online only.”
However, with a crowded internet growing even more competitive by the day--just a few months ago, a search for “bridal jewelry” turned up a third of today’s results--a physical presence may be necessary now to set a business apart from its virtual competition. As Paquette described the situation, “you can have the best product at the best price but if they can’t find you…” He added that “being found online is a major effort.” Being found in a brick-and-mortar location may well be the new way for entrepreneurs to get their businesses noticed.
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Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
* New online printing with The UPS Store®, send documents from anywhere. Click to find out more.
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* Drive Sales With Tutorials
* Turn Design-on-Demand Into Profits
* Learn From Your Mistakes
* Manage Debt Effectively
* Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
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What Happened to My Line of Credit?
Business and personal lines of credit are being reduced or eliminated at alarming rates. What can business owners do to overcome this formidable challenge?
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However, the internet is quickly becoming a crowded marketplace and a number of small business owners have actually decided to reverse the trend of the past few years by going back to brick-and-mortar.
An internet business selling jewelry for weddings--bridal pieces and bridesmaid gifts, for example--can very easily get lost in the crowd. An online search for bridal jewelry returns over 66 million results. Silverland Jewelry owner Ray Paquette decided the odds were strong he would not be found in a simple online search. He worked to optimize his website so his business landed in the top page or two of search results and his online business has done quite well since he launched it in 2005. However, he wanted to do more.
Paquette made the decision to open a brick-and-mortar store for a number of reasons. With 98 percent of his online orders coming from out-of-state, Paquette--based in Raleigh, N.C.--wanted more local foot traffic and to keep a closer eye on his inventory. Not to mention that a centralized production area gives him “better control of the product.”
A storefront also gives his customers the opportunity to see the jewelry in person--sometimes to even see the jewelry being made. Several of Silverland’s artisans work out of the store, so customers can see how custom jewelry is made. One of Paquette’s concerns about his online offerings was that a webpage did not give the customer a true sense of scale and proportion, something easily rectified with a display case in a store.
For many of the same reasons, online clothing retailer Chan Namgong also opened a brick-and-mortar location after building a successful internet business. Namgong’s site, for his online women’s clothing business Bevello provides the models’ measurements and corresponding sizes for customers to compare with their own measurements, he decided the time was right to open a store to increase foot traffic, and cash flow, to “nurture the online business.”
Both entrepreneurs saw an opportunity in the real estate market and realized that this was the time to secure a physical location for their growing businesses. With many businesses closing and commercial property emptying, they were able to secure deals on their new stores that certainly contributed to their decisions. Both Paquette and Namgong said that they would not have been able to open their brick-and-mortar locations without the solid foundation of successful online businesses already in place.
The consensus seems to be that retailers must maintain their online presence since most shoppers begin with a search online, even for local stores. As Namgong pointed out, “some people are never going to shop online but some people want to shop online only.”
However, with a crowded internet growing even more competitive by the day--just a few months ago, a search for “bridal jewelry” turned up a third of today’s results--a physical presence may be necessary now to set a business apart from its virtual competition. As Paquette described the situation, “you can have the best product at the best price but if they can’t find you…” He added that “being found online is a major effort.” Being found in a brick-and-mortar location may well be the new way for entrepreneurs to get their businesses noticed.
Print ShareThis Get the Mag Weekly Updates
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
* New online printing with The UPS Store®, send documents from anywhere. Click to find out more.
RSS FEED
Today on Entrepreneur
* Drive Sales With Tutorials
* Turn Design-on-Demand Into Profits
* Learn From Your Mistakes
* Manage Debt Effectively
* Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
More Stories »
Entrepreneur Connect
What Happened to My Line of Credit?
Business and personal lines of credit are being reduced or eliminated at alarming rates. What can business owners do to overcome this formidable challenge?
Resource Centers
Tech Advisor
Tips and trends for taking your business on the road.
Startup How-To Guides
Step-by-step guides to launching your business.
Commercial Vehicle Center
Get the right ride for your business.
Sign Up for the Latest in:
e-Business & Technology
Franchise News
Business Book Sampler
Starting a Business
Sales & Marketing
Growing a Business
E-mail*
Zip Code*
Work-Life
Work-Life
Secrets of Surviving Bankruptcy
Anger and shame are natural byproducts of bankruptcy, but these 3 women discovered they could reinvent themselves and be entrepreneurs again.
* Take Charge of Your Financial Stability
* Don't Fear Failure
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Fast-food nightmares abound, but some airports have surprisingly good eateries.
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Touring Our Roots
Travel through wine country in North Carolina, New York, and Virginia.
European Style in Washington State
Brian Carter, founder of Brian Carter Cellars, strives to handcraft European-style blended wines with Washington State grapes.
A Sonoma Classic
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Art in a Bottle
At Thumbprint Cellars, the art just isn't on the walls. . . it's in the bottle.
A Napa Legacy
St. Clement Vineyards is a small premium winery, whose history parallels the rich winemaking legacy of the Napa Valley.
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Health and Fitness Advice
The Psychology of Stress
You've managed to keep your business afloat, but how are you managing the stress?
An Unexpected Key to Business Success
Your capacity for delayed gratification increases your likelihood to succeed.
All Well and Good
A healthy workplace means keeping your employees' minds and bodies happy.
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10 Tips for Balancing Work and MotherhoodÂ
There's no magic formula for making sure you have enough time for both, but these 10 smart tactics can help.
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* The Mom Entrepreneur Juggling Act
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Success Stories
Master Minds Master Minds
How these ultra-entrepreneurs took on the titans of advanced-degree training--and scored.
Greenbox's Gurus Are the New Power Rangers
They're just your average tech moguls--saving the world, one power strip at a time.
Happy Babies, Happy Planet
Bored while her baby slept, this mother created organic, cloth diapers.
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The Triangle of Entrepreneurial Finance
Learn how to manage your business and personal finances together.
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Recent Features
Where to Find Great Food at Airports
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Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
Secrets of Surviving Bankruptcy
Anger and shame are natural byproducts of bankruptcy, but these 3 women discovered they could reinvent themselves and be entrepreneurs again.
* Take Charge of Your Financial Stability
* Don't Fear Failure
Browse by Topic
* Entrepreneur Automotive
* Entrepreneur Bookshelf
* Health and Fitness
* Personal Finance
* Success Stories
* Travel Center
* Work/Life Balance
Travel Guide
Where to Find Great Food at Airports
Fast-food nightmares abound, but some airports have surprisingly good eateries.
Better Business Trips Made Simple
Social networking sites take some of the work out of business travel.
More Travel articles:
* 9 Ways to Save on Rental Cars
* A Mobile Future
* Airport Hotels Up Their Ante
Visit the Travel Guide Center »
Wine Guide
The Complete Package
At The Meritage Resort & Spa in the Napa Valley, guests sometimes joke that it is so completer they are tempted never to leave.
A Vinifera Pioneer
Visionary Dr. Konstantin Frank brought the European vinifera grapes to New York's Finger Lakes region.
Touring Our Roots
Travel through wine country in North Carolina, New York, and Virginia.
European Style in Washington State
Brian Carter, founder of Brian Carter Cellars, strives to handcraft European-style blended wines with Washington State grapes.
A Sonoma Classic
Chateau St. Jean Winery and Vineyards, in Sonoma Valley, is always embarking on something new.
Art in a Bottle
At Thumbprint Cellars, the art just isn't on the walls. . . it's in the bottle.
A Napa Legacy
St. Clement Vineyards is a small premium winery, whose history parallels the rich winemaking legacy of the Napa Valley.
Wine Guide Archive »
Health and Fitness Advice
The Psychology of Stress
You've managed to keep your business afloat, but how are you managing the stress?
An Unexpected Key to Business Success
Your capacity for delayed gratification increases your likelihood to succeed.
All Well and Good
A healthy workplace means keeping your employees' minds and bodies happy.
More on Health and Fitness »
Finding Balance
10 Tips for Balancing Work and MotherhoodÂ
There's no magic formula for making sure you have enough time for both, but these 10 smart tactics can help.
More Work/Life Balance articles:
* The Mom Entrepreneur Juggling Act
* Shape Up
* The Inspiration of Stress
Work/Life Balance »
Success Stories
Master Minds Master Minds
How these ultra-entrepreneurs took on the titans of advanced-degree training--and scored.
Greenbox's Gurus Are the New Power Rangers
They're just your average tech moguls--saving the world, one power strip at a time.
Happy Babies, Happy Planet
Bored while her baby slept, this mother created organic, cloth diapers.
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Personal Finance
The Triangle of Entrepreneurial Finance
Learn how to manage your business and personal finances together.
More Personal Finance articles:
* Budget Strategically to Stay on Course
* Liquid Assets Keep the Credit Flowing
* Can You Handle the Risk?
Personal Finance »
Recent Features
Where to Find Great Food at Airports
Fast-food nightmares abound, but some airports have surprisingly good eateries.
An Unexpected Key to Business Success
Your capacity for delayed gratification increases your likelihood to succeed.
Home Based Business Reality Check
Questions to ask yourself before diving in.
How You Can Leverage a Layoff
Jobless? Take this as an opportunity to start your own business.
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Innovate Every Day
You need to be able to think innovatively beyond the startup stage. Here are 3 ways to stay creative.
By Allison Gergley | Entrepreneur Magazine - March 2009
Print ShareThis Get the Mag Weekly Updates [-] Text Size [+]
In the sink-or-swim environment of startups, daily innovation can weigh heavily on your mind. Here are three ways to think creatively--well past your startup stage.
1.
Since the mid-1990s, small businesses have created 60% to 80% of the net new jobs.
(Source: SBA)
Ask better questions. Write down present and future goals for your business, then simplify strategies on how to get there. "It takes effort to think clearly in terms of what's simple, what's practical and what works," says Scott Jeffrey, managing partner at creative problem-solving think tank Nonbox Consulting. Jeffrey and his team asked, "Do we really need an office?" and through brainstorming created a virtual office, giving each member freedom of creative space.
2. Utilize every facet of your resources to reach a larger audience. A little goes a long way when your assets are constrained, explains Jon Chait, partner at VC firm Dace Ventures. Use free technologies, such as online videos, social networking and discussion forums, to get your name out when you're in a crunch. Also, pick and choose when to splurge on a big advertisement in a media outlet.
3. Seek feedback. Your main goal is to benefit your customers, so go directly to the source and ask what they're looking for. Keep your eyes and ears open with online surveys, research your competitors' moves and successes, and put yourself in the customer's shoes. Jeffrey says focusing on a core customer group can make you strong competition for the dominant players in that industry.
Print ShareThis Get the Mag Weekly Updates
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* Help a small business win $100,000 in grant and marketing support from American Express
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* Turn Design-on-Demand Into Profits
* Learn From Your Mistakes
* Manage Debt Effectively
* Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
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Tony Hawk Carves a New Niche
The master of the half-pipe and creator of skateboard empire is about to introduce his latest trick: a skateboard without wheels.
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Business and personal lines of credit are being reduced or eliminated at alarming rates. What can business owners do to overcome this formidable challenge?
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By Allison Gergley | Entrepreneur Magazine - March 2009
Print ShareThis Get the Mag Weekly Updates [-] Text Size [+]
In the sink-or-swim environment of startups, daily innovation can weigh heavily on your mind. Here are three ways to think creatively--well past your startup stage.
1.
Since the mid-1990s, small businesses have created 60% to 80% of the net new jobs.
(Source: SBA)
Ask better questions. Write down present and future goals for your business, then simplify strategies on how to get there. "It takes effort to think clearly in terms of what's simple, what's practical and what works," says Scott Jeffrey, managing partner at creative problem-solving think tank Nonbox Consulting. Jeffrey and his team asked, "Do we really need an office?" and through brainstorming created a virtual office, giving each member freedom of creative space.
2. Utilize every facet of your resources to reach a larger audience. A little goes a long way when your assets are constrained, explains Jon Chait, partner at VC firm Dace Ventures. Use free technologies, such as online videos, social networking and discussion forums, to get your name out when you're in a crunch. Also, pick and choose when to splurge on a big advertisement in a media outlet.
3. Seek feedback. Your main goal is to benefit your customers, so go directly to the source and ask what they're looking for. Keep your eyes and ears open with online surveys, research your competitors' moves and successes, and put yourself in the customer's shoes. Jeffrey says focusing on a core customer group can make you strong competition for the dominant players in that industry.
Print ShareThis Get the Mag Weekly Updates
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
* Help a small business win $100,000 in grant and marketing support from American Express
RSS FEED
Today on Entrepreneur
* Drive Sales With Tutorials
* Turn Design-on-Demand Into Profits
* Learn From Your Mistakes
* Manage Debt Effectively
* Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
More Stories »
Current Issue
Tony Hawk Carves a New Niche
The master of the half-pipe and creator of skateboard empire is about to introduce his latest trick: a skateboard without wheels.
Read this issue »
Magazine Resources
* Manage Your Subscription
* Renew Your Subscription
* Article Reprints
* Issue Archive
* Subscribe
* Buy Back Issues
* Give a Gift
Strategic Research
Taco Time
Homes and Land
Unshippers Global
American Leak Detection
Entrepreneur Connect
What Happened to My Line of Credit?
Business and personal lines of credit are being reduced or eliminated at alarming rates. What can business owners do to overcome this formidable challenge?
Resource Centers
Tech Advisor
Tips and trends for taking your business on the road.
Startup How-To Guides
Step-by-step guides to launching your business.
Commercial Vehicle Center
Get the right ride for your business.
Sign Up for the Latest in:
e-Business & Technology
Franchise News
Business Book Sampler
Starting a Business
Sales & Marketing
Growing a Business
E-mail*
Zip Code*
Grow Your Business
Grow Your Business
Innovate Every Day
You need to be able to think innovatively beyond the startup stage. Here are 3 ways to stay creative.
* Five Great--and Necessary--Marketing Makeovers
* Take Charge of Your Financial Stability
Browse by Topic
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* Franchising Your Biz
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Charting Your Business Timeline
[Charting Your Business Timeline] Unsure where you should be focusing your energies? Our business timeline series will help you keep your eyes on the prize, no matter what stage you're in.
* Years 2 to 5: Time to Grow
* Years 5 to 10: Growing to the Next Level
* Years 10 to Retirement: Managing Maturity
Time to Expand
Grow Without Growing Pains
From outsourcing to renting conference space as-needed, create a big-biz feel for your small biz.
* Build Your List, Grow Your Business
* When Is It Time to Grow?
* Create an Action Plan Now
* Don't Just Hope for Traffic--Find It
Exploring New Markets »
International Growth
Compliance to New International Trade Rules
U.S. trade policy is changing. Are you ready?
* Reaching Beyond Borders
* Time to Test Foreign Waters
* Trade Policy: The Road Ahead
* The Evolution of Protectionism
More International Growth »
Selling Your Biz
Is Your Business Fit to be Sold?
Consider these 4 characteristics before putting your business on the market.
* Financing a Business Acquisition in a Recession
* Why Do Franchisors Fail?
* Why You Should Buy a Business
* Bringing in the Right Buyer for Your Business
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Franchising Your Biz
Finding Expert Franchising Help
Choosing the right experts during your early franchising phase can translate to long-term success.
* Signing Your First Franchisee
* Get the Best Price for Your Business
* Know The Present Value of a Franchise
* Finding Expert Franchising Help
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Business Strategies
Real-World Cost-Cutting Practices
These 4 companies are saving money in day-to-day operations. And they're doing it without affecting the customer experience.
Liquid Assets Keep the Credit Flowing
Entrepreneurs with asset liquidity will be able to get loans in a tough environment.
* 10 Rules for Quick and Easy PR
* Why Should Your Employees Like You?
* Find Your Purpose
* Keep Up Appearances
More Business Strategies »
Marketplace
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Sprint
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Find the Right Work Van for Your Business
The new crop combines the usual brawn with some serious brains.
Visit the Commercial Vehicle Center »
Make the Sale
Make the Sale
with Barry Farber
Close With Confidence
3 ways to boost your courage under pressure
Selected articles by Barry Farber
* Close the Deal With Urgency
* Selling Cost vs. Price
* Stay Strong When Business Gets Rough
More articles »
Resources from SCORE
SCORESCORE, an SBA resource partner, offers free counseling and low-cost workshops to prospective and current entrepreneurs. We're proud to present the following SCORE resources on Entrepreneur.com:
* Top 5 Business Tips. Keep it simple. Follow SCORE's series of top 5 business tips to make your business smarter.
* 60-Second Guides. Get smart information in just a minute with 31 of SCORE's 60-second guides.
Related Products
Million Dollar Habits
Proven power practices to double and triple your income
Learn more »
Mastering Business Growth and Change Made Easy
Take charge of your business' growth
Learn more »
Innovate Every Day
You need to be able to think innovatively beyond the startup stage. Here are 3 ways to stay creative.
* Five Great--and Necessary--Marketing Makeovers
* Take Charge of Your Financial Stability
Browse by Topic
* Business Strategies
* Exploring New Markets
* Franchising Your Biz
* International Growth
* Selling Your Biz
Charting Your Business Timeline
[Charting Your Business Timeline] Unsure where you should be focusing your energies? Our business timeline series will help you keep your eyes on the prize, no matter what stage you're in.
* Years 2 to 5: Time to Grow
* Years 5 to 10: Growing to the Next Level
* Years 10 to Retirement: Managing Maturity
Time to Expand
Grow Without Growing Pains
From outsourcing to renting conference space as-needed, create a big-biz feel for your small biz.
* Build Your List, Grow Your Business
* When Is It Time to Grow?
* Create an Action Plan Now
* Don't Just Hope for Traffic--Find It
Exploring New Markets »
International Growth
Compliance to New International Trade Rules
U.S. trade policy is changing. Are you ready?
* Reaching Beyond Borders
* Time to Test Foreign Waters
* Trade Policy: The Road Ahead
* The Evolution of Protectionism
More International Growth »
Selling Your Biz
Is Your Business Fit to be Sold?
Consider these 4 characteristics before putting your business on the market.
* Financing a Business Acquisition in a Recession
* Why Do Franchisors Fail?
* Why You Should Buy a Business
* Bringing in the Right Buyer for Your Business
More Selling Your Biz »
Franchising Your Biz
Finding Expert Franchising Help
Choosing the right experts during your early franchising phase can translate to long-term success.
* Signing Your First Franchisee
* Get the Best Price for Your Business
* Know The Present Value of a Franchise
* Finding Expert Franchising Help
More Franchising Your Biz »
Business Strategies
Real-World Cost-Cutting Practices
These 4 companies are saving money in day-to-day operations. And they're doing it without affecting the customer experience.
Liquid Assets Keep the Credit Flowing
Entrepreneurs with asset liquidity will be able to get loans in a tough environment.
* 10 Rules for Quick and Easy PR
* Why Should Your Employees Like You?
* Find Your Purpose
* Keep Up Appearances
More Business Strategies »
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
Find the Right Work Van for Your Business
The new crop combines the usual brawn with some serious brains.
Visit the Commercial Vehicle Center »
Make the Sale
Make the Sale
with Barry Farber
Close With Confidence
3 ways to boost your courage under pressure
Selected articles by Barry Farber
* Close the Deal With Urgency
* Selling Cost vs. Price
* Stay Strong When Business Gets Rough
More articles »
Resources from SCORE
SCORESCORE, an SBA resource partner, offers free counseling and low-cost workshops to prospective and current entrepreneurs. We're proud to present the following SCORE resources on Entrepreneur.com:
* Top 5 Business Tips. Keep it simple. Follow SCORE's series of top 5 business tips to make your business smarter.
* 60-Second Guides. Get smart information in just a minute with 31 of SCORE's 60-second guides.
Related Products
Million Dollar Habits
Proven power practices to double and triple your income
Learn more »
Mastering Business Growth and Change Made Easy
Take charge of your business' growth
Learn more »
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Sprint
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* Trade Publication Directory
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Financial Management
Break Even Calculator
Break Even Analysis is an expected component of most business plans, especially for startups. This calculator shows how much revenue you need to cover both fixed and variable costs.
Investment Offering Calculator
Use this calculator to view both sides of the investment table. See what an investor gets and what a company gives up all in one easy tool.
Starting Costs Calculator
This calculator helps you evaluate how much capital you'll need to start your business.
Online Business
Conversion Rate Calculator
This calculator shows you what impact improving your website conversion rate has on your total online sales. Enter your visitors and total orders, and you can see what an increase in conversion can do.
E-Mail ROI Calculator
Use this calculator to determine the ROI (return on investment) of your e-mail campaign. You can test different scenarios to see the results.
Pay-Per-Click ROI Calculator
Use this calculator to determine the ROI (return on investment) for your pay-per-click advertising campaigns.
Investing
Discounted Cash Flow
Analyze how much your cash is worth today vs. in the future.
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
* Help a small business win $100,000 in grant and marketing support from American Express
Trade Publication Resources
Take advantage of these free trade publication resources, including subscriptions, white papers and podcasts, that cover a range of topics and industries, from accounting to architecture.
* Trade Publication Directory
FormNet Menu
Download these free forms for your business.
* Accounting
* Collection/Credit
* Franchises
* Human Resources
* Insurance
* Inventory
* Leasing
* Legal
* Marketing
* Office Management
* Purchasing
* Sales
* Shipping
* Starting a Business
Financial Calculators
Analyze your business numbers with our handy calculators:
* Scrutinize cash flow
* Determine starting costs
* Analyze your break-even point
Online Business
Online Business
How to Make Your Website Really Sell
The best advice for converting visitors to your company's website into real revenue.
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You can't do business online without one--make sure you get it right.
Site Design
Online Operations
5 Questions to Ask Your Web Develope
5 Questions to Ask Your Web Developer
If you want your site to work properly, consider these factors before you build it.
Wipe Out Shopping Cart Abandonment
Wipe Out Shopping Cart Abandonment
These tips will help you turn clicks into cash.
More on Building a Website »
Selling Online
Find a site to sell your stuff--from eBay and beyond.
Inside an Online Bazaar
Artisans and consumers converge at Etsy.com, a perpetual global art festival.
The Evolution of eBay
Despite some unpopular changes, entrepreneurs still see it as the king of online sales channels.
More on Selling Online »
Expanding Your Web Presence
Get your business's message to the masses.
Social Media
Sharpen Your Social Media Intelligence
Proactively monitor how your company is represented in blogs, Facebook or Twitter.
Blogs
The Twittering Class
How social media can elevate your company's online cred
Search Engine Optimization
5 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Website for Bing
If you've never used Microsoft's search marketing, now's the time to start.
Online Marketing
Spend Local--Online
Reach a younger, hipper market for a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising.
More on Expanding Your Web Presence »
Success Stories
These entrepreneurs have created online empires. Let them inspire you.
The Man Behind the MemesThe Man Behind the Memes
Internet content connoisseur Ben Huh explains our fascination with cat photos, cheeseburger hats and misspelled words.
840 Million Reasons to Celebrate840 Million Reasons to Celebrate
Fresh off his mammoth deal with Amazon, Zappos.com CEO Tony Hsieh shares the secrets of his online empire.
Playing to WinPlaying to Win
Gamefly's Sean Spector gives us a peek inside his game-rental empire.
More Success Stories »
Recent Features
Take Your Video Viral
Potential viewers: millions. Potential cost: next to nothing. Online videos are worth a look.
Bringing Social Sites Together
If you can't keep up with your social media goings-on, check out these 3 sites.
Downtime Deterrent: 24/7 Web Monitoring
Just Uptime's small web monitoring application makes a big difference to clients like Comply Serve Limited.
A Roundup of Apps and Tools
Whether it's payment options or collaboration that's on your mind, we've got you covered.
SEO: Essential to Survival
Companies that rely on the web for sales have two choices. Embrace SEO or don't embrace SEO. And one's not really a viable option.
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
Web Metrics Guru
Web Metrics Guru
with Marshall Sponder
Find Your Audience Now
Use free tools to bring people together around your brand--online or off.
Selected articles by Marshall Sponder
* Track Your Tweets
* Turn Conversations Into Sales
* Learn to Measure Your Web Presence
More articles »
More Expert Columnists
Jennifer Shaheen: Technology Therapist
5 Questions to Ask Your Web Developer
If you want your site to work properly, consider these factors before you build it.
Danielle Babb : The Online Professor
Wow Investors With a Web-Savvy Business Plan
In a tight credit market, use expertise to stand out from the crowd.
Allen Moon: E-Business
5 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Website for Bing
If you've never bothered with Microsoft's search offerings before, now's the time to start.
Resources
12 Free Tools for Online Businesses
If you're looking for ways to save money and make your e-business more profitable, check out these free tools and resources.
Web 2.0 Payment Apps
Whether it's payment options or collaboration that's on your mind, we've got you covered.
Web Smarts
Tips and tools to transform your business.
Keyword Research Tool
This tool shows the ranking of any word you enter as well as related popular keywords on the internet so you can gauge which to use on your site.
Online Business Books
Design and Launch an Online Web Design Business in a Week
Turn your passion into your next paycheck—-in just a few clicks and few days!
More Info »
The Online Professor's Practical Guide to Starting an Internet Business
From internet startup to internet success, let The Online Professor take you step by step!
More Info »
Resource Nation
Find Pre-Screened E-Business Experts
* Web Design
* Online Marketing
* SEO Marketing
* Pay-Per-Click Advertising
* E-mail Marketing
* Graphic Design
* E-commerce Web design
How to Make Your Website Really Sell
The best advice for converting visitors to your company's website into real revenue.
* 5 Questions to Ask Your Web Developer
* The Purpose-Driven Website
Browse by Topic
* Building a Website
* Expanding Your Online Presence
* Selling Online
* Success Stories
Building a Website
You can't do business online without one--make sure you get it right.
Site Design
Online Operations
5 Questions to Ask Your Web Develope
5 Questions to Ask Your Web Developer
If you want your site to work properly, consider these factors before you build it.
Wipe Out Shopping Cart Abandonment
Wipe Out Shopping Cart Abandonment
These tips will help you turn clicks into cash.
More on Building a Website »
Selling Online
Find a site to sell your stuff--from eBay and beyond.
Inside an Online Bazaar
Artisans and consumers converge at Etsy.com, a perpetual global art festival.
The Evolution of eBay
Despite some unpopular changes, entrepreneurs still see it as the king of online sales channels.
More on Selling Online »
Expanding Your Web Presence
Get your business's message to the masses.
Social Media
Sharpen Your Social Media Intelligence
Proactively monitor how your company is represented in blogs, Facebook or Twitter.
Blogs
The Twittering Class
How social media can elevate your company's online cred
Search Engine Optimization
5 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Website for Bing
If you've never used Microsoft's search marketing, now's the time to start.
Online Marketing
Spend Local--Online
Reach a younger, hipper market for a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising.
More on Expanding Your Web Presence »
Success Stories
These entrepreneurs have created online empires. Let them inspire you.
The Man Behind the MemesThe Man Behind the Memes
Internet content connoisseur Ben Huh explains our fascination with cat photos, cheeseburger hats and misspelled words.
840 Million Reasons to Celebrate840 Million Reasons to Celebrate
Fresh off his mammoth deal with Amazon, Zappos.com CEO Tony Hsieh shares the secrets of his online empire.
Playing to WinPlaying to Win
Gamefly's Sean Spector gives us a peek inside his game-rental empire.
More Success Stories »
Recent Features
Take Your Video Viral
Potential viewers: millions. Potential cost: next to nothing. Online videos are worth a look.
Bringing Social Sites Together
If you can't keep up with your social media goings-on, check out these 3 sites.
Downtime Deterrent: 24/7 Web Monitoring
Just Uptime's small web monitoring application makes a big difference to clients like Comply Serve Limited.
A Roundup of Apps and Tools
Whether it's payment options or collaboration that's on your mind, we've got you covered.
SEO: Essential to Survival
Companies that rely on the web for sales have two choices. Embrace SEO or don't embrace SEO. And one's not really a viable option.
Marketplace
Learn how to distribute a press release
Sprint
Get the Now widget
Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
Web Metrics Guru
Web Metrics Guru
with Marshall Sponder
Find Your Audience Now
Use free tools to bring people together around your brand--online or off.
Selected articles by Marshall Sponder
* Track Your Tweets
* Turn Conversations Into Sales
* Learn to Measure Your Web Presence
More articles »
More Expert Columnists
Jennifer Shaheen: Technology Therapist
5 Questions to Ask Your Web Developer
If you want your site to work properly, consider these factors before you build it.
Danielle Babb : The Online Professor
Wow Investors With a Web-Savvy Business Plan
In a tight credit market, use expertise to stand out from the crowd.
Allen Moon: E-Business
5 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Website for Bing
If you've never bothered with Microsoft's search offerings before, now's the time to start.
Resources
12 Free Tools for Online Businesses
If you're looking for ways to save money and make your e-business more profitable, check out these free tools and resources.
Web 2.0 Payment Apps
Whether it's payment options or collaboration that's on your mind, we've got you covered.
Web Smarts
Tips and tools to transform your business.
Keyword Research Tool
This tool shows the ranking of any word you enter as well as related popular keywords on the internet so you can gauge which to use on your site.
Online Business Books
Design and Launch an Online Web Design Business in a Week
Turn your passion into your next paycheck—-in just a few clicks and few days!
More Info »
The Online Professor's Practical Guide to Starting an Internet Business
From internet startup to internet success, let The Online Professor take you step by step!
More Info »
Resource Nation
Find Pre-Screened E-Business Experts
* Web Design
* Online Marketing
* SEO Marketing
* Pay-Per-Click Advertising
* E-mail Marketing
* Graphic Design
* E-commerce Web design
Finding Customers
Article Archive Growing Green Revenues
How alligning value with values can win sales in the office supply industry Harness the Power of 'Freemium' Learn when--and how--to start charging for your web service without starting a riot. The Human Approach Focus less on making your pitch and more on listening to what your customers need. Get Back to Basics--and Bricks Stand out in a crowded online marketplace by opening a traditional storefront. Frustration Fuels a New Business Idea This entrepreneur hit it big by sharing her problem--and the solution--with the world. A Journalist’s Melting Pot Helium helps online writers' voices be heard above the noise. 4 Ways to Boost Business With a Blog Share information, interact with customers and boost your brand--blogs are the perfect way to keep you on top of your industry. Young and in Charge Young entrepreneurs can earn client trust and establish credibility. Look Good Online The only way to control what people say about your company is to be part of the conversation. Girl Power Want to grab a powerful niche market with growing potential? find out what women want. Specialists Win More Referrals If you claim to do everything, your clients won't rely on you for anything. Generating More Referrals There are plenty of opportunities to develop quality referrals--you just have to look for them. Taking Customers With You When You Start a Business If you've decided to break off on your own and launch a business that's competition to your former employer, heed these words of wisdom from a business law expert. Marketing to Other Entrepreneurs If you're marketing to other business owners, you need to offer the 7 things they want most--and learn how you can deliver them. 23 Hours to a Great Marketing Plan The countdown has started: With these simple steps, you're less than a day away from creating marketing magic. Get PR for Your New Business Follow these smart tips to get PR coverage for your new business. 8 Ways to Improve Your Visibility Your business may be on a budget, but you can still pump up your visibility. These 8 proven tactics will get you noticed on the cheap. 21 Ways to Bring in the Business Despite your desperate hopes and prayers, business isn't just going to wander into your business. You need to get out there and hustle, and we've got the tips to help you do it. 99 Tips for Direct-Mail Marketing Kick your marketing into high gear with these 99 ways to get customers to open your mail. Building Buzz in a New Market Ready to grow your business? Follow this step-by-step approach to winning new customers. 33 Tips for Marketing Success Make a point of practicing three to five marketing activities every day, and you'll soon develop a successful marketing habit. Finding Customers Fast Use these four smart ways to increase leads and sales this summer. Promote Your Business With Coupons and Contests Find out why offering customers coupons or giving them free products is beneficial for your business. Promote Your Business With Coupons and Contests Find out why offering customers coupons or giving them free products is beneficial for your business. Neighborhood Marketing Tactics Use your creativity and marketing smarts to attract a loyal following of local businesspeople and residents. 7 Relationship-Building Strategies for Your Business Try these tactics to get customers to think of your company first. Credibility is King In markets where every customer is an expert, authenticity is the key to success. Figuring Out Your Competive Advantage Boost sales by selling customers on your competitive advantage. | Create a Marketing Plan Plan for Success
Get your marketing off on the right foot by creating a comprehensive marketing plan. Our how-to will show you the step-by-step process. Research Your Market Time to Meet Your Customers
Don't let a lack of reseearch ruin your marketing efforts. Learn who your customers really are: Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times
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Marketing
Starting a Business
Making the Best of a Bad Situation
nemployment levels have been unpredictable lately, but three web-based startups are doing their part to help. All launched within the last year, a generally risky business move that makes more sense given their recession-friendly focus--connecting people with jobs.TransitionConcierge.com
Sanjay Sathe’s personal experience as both a laid-off employee and an executive who managed layoffs led him to start Transition Concierge--one of the first outplacement agencies to operate solely online.
“I was prompted to look at the outplacement industry that has been offering the same type of service and the same quality of service over the last 20 or 30 years while the rest of the world has changed,” Sathe says.
The San Jose, Calif.-based organization launched in August 2008, shortly before receiving $3 million in venture capital funding. It seeks to merge a high-tech approach with personal attention by using “transition specialists,” who facilitate customized professional resume and cover letter writing, career-related web seminars, weekly job leads e-mails and information on local career-related events.
“They kept tabs on me. I was really impressed,” says Jann Heringer, a Sacramento, Calif. resident whose employer contracted with Transition Concierge after a round of layoffs.
“It was important because I was jobless and I’m older and I was horrified,” says Heringer, who found another healthcare job by browsing the HR pages of companies featured in her job leads e-mails.
Perhaps the most noticeable difference between Transition Concierge and its more traditional industry counterparts is the absence of grief counseling or any physical gathering space. The company halves typical outplacement service fees by eliminating these services, which Sathe says market analysis indicated little need for anyway.
“We went back to the drawing board and asked people what they were looking for,” he says. “They were often looking to reposition themselves, so they needed a new resume and cover letter, and they needed a job fast, so all the office space and grief counseling wasn’t necessary.”
Sathe admits it’s challenging to bring corporations on-board with the idea of “Outplacement 2.0,” let alone the idea of parting ways with outplacement firms used in the past. Nevertheless, Transition Concierge managed to sign several Fortune 500 clients in the past nine months, largely through referrals and social media networking.
FastLaneHires.com
When the U.S. real estate market headed south and infrastructure became a governmental buzzword, FastLane Hires CEO Lori Gale got a wakeup call. Formerly a happy and successful recruiter in commercial real estate, Gale decided to start a job board for transportation and infrastructure employment. It didn’t hurt that Gale worked 14 years as the fourth-generation owner of a family printing business that dealt only with the transportation industry.
“The real estate recruiting just dried up, so there was no choice but to get really innovative or find something else to fall back on,” Gale says. “In my case, it was so natural to step back into transportation with my recruiting skills.”
She has been bootstrapping since the site launched in June, but Gale is preparing to pitch investors soon. The site has seen traffic from 40 countries, a pleasant surprise that Gale hopes to develop further. The company’s short-term plans include developing a volunteer network of professional mentors and recruiting college graduates into the transportation industry.
“There’s a real vacuum in the industry right now in terms of talent,” Gale said. “It’s not like kids say, ‘When I grow up, I want to be a train inspector.’ The industry hasn’t done a good job of attracting new talent, and with retiring baby boomers, there’s a real lack of solid upcoming talent.”
The company will also become certified as a female-owned business, placing it in the minority and making it more attractive for quota-driven government funding.
“The amount of money they’re going to spend on job board postings is like a drop in the bucket in terms of the quota, but it helps,” Gale says. “It’s an opportunity.”
When discussing the future, Gale says opportunities abound. Transportation is a “green” industry that reduces gas emissions and urban sprawl, and infrastructure is a government priority. It all adds up to bright prospects for FastLane Hires and the professionals it serves.
Startuply.com
If starting one business during a recession seems risky, how about 1,150 businesses? That’s the number of startup organizations currently listed on Startuply.com, a site that links jobs at new companies with gutsy job seekers willing to take a chance.
“We had all worked at startup companies before, and this industry is kind of our world,” says co-founder Luke Groesbeck. “There weren’t really any good options for finding jobs at startup companies and offering a good user experience where you can learn more about the companies themselves.”
Startuply is run using revenue from sister company Job Syndicate and parent company Job Alchemist and backed by venture capital firm, Y Combinator. It’s no-cost approach to job ads and searches is gold in the cash-strapped startup community, as is the ability to connect with like-minded people.
“In the future, I think Startuply should support itself. It’s gotten a pretty strong community involved around it,” says Groesbeck, adding that the site saw a record high of 75,000 visitors and almost 9,000 job applications in July. “Even in a recession, it’s hard to find good people, so if you can deliver good value, there will always be people willing to pay for it.”
According to a recent study by the Kauffmann Foundation, over half of this year’s Fortune 500 companies began during a recession or bear market. So while it’s not the worst time for a startup, Groesbeck thinks the field has taken a hit. He expects to see many more launches after the economy recovers, funding is more available and fear less prevalent. In the meantime, however, there are plenty of businesses seeking workers on Startuply, a company that remains firmly committed to helping these young companies succeed.
“If we could get one person hired at one great company that is going to change the world in some way,” Groesbeck says, “then we could play a little role in doing something great in the world.”
Start a Blog For Your Business
Business blogs attract search engines, display your startup’s personality and encourage customer participation--a form of marketing that startups crave and money alone can’t buy.
| Blogging Platforms Free hosted platforms Blogger LiveJournal Vox These enable you to launch a blog in minutes, but limit your ability to customize it and host it in your own environment. Premium hosted platforms WordPress.com offers free and premium hosted solutions. Premium service is more customizable and allows your blog a unique domain name. TypePad offers a free 14-day trial and simplifies setup, maintenance and customization. Stand-alone platforms WordPress.org provides free downloads of its platform along with instructions, templates and plug-ins, and user support. Movable Type features a downloadable development platform as well as plug-ins and documentation. |
Every blog needs a hosting environment and a content management platform. The hosting environment is the server connected to the internet that stores all your blog’s files, code and content. The content management platform is the software used to post content, customize and organize its appearance and more.
Deciding whether to host a blog within your own hosting environment or link to an externally hosted blog depends on which blogging platform you feel is best for your company. Posting content to your blog is easy, but setting up and maintaining it can be a challenge, so choose a platform that’s best suited to your startup’s budget and technical expertise.
- Free developer-hosted platforms: These easy-to-use, low-cost options allow you to set up and launch a blog quickly, with features for customizing your blog’s appearance, address and functionality.
- Premium developer-hosted platforms: Here, you pay the blog’s developer to host and maintain your company’s blog, and you use their online tools to customize its design and functionality.
- Stand-alone platforms: You pay to download a platform or use a free platform and host the blog yourself, typically on your own web server. While this option provides the greatest degree of customization, it’s also the most challenging.
As you blog, keep in mind that content is king. Always post fresh, original and relevant content, and your blog will soon build a loyal following.
Mikal E. Belicove is a market positioning, social media and business management consultant specializing in website usability and corporate blogging. When he’s not working or ghosting blog entries for clients, Mikal can be found musing about the world on belicove.com. Contact him atmikal@belicove.com.
Content Continues Below
Breaking Into the Career Field of Marketing
A career in marketing is enjoyable and fun. Most people who work in marketing will tell you it provides them with the challenge they have always wanted. The reason being is marketing is always changing; there are always techniques to learn, cases to study, and strategies to research.
Do you have what it takes?
- Can you communicate your thoughts, ideas, and information clearly and concisely both in writing and verbally?
- Are you able to recognize problems and devise an appropriate plan of action to resolve that problem?
- Can you organize and interpret complex data?
- Are you good at generating new ideas? Can you then take and organize those ideas and communicate them verbally?
If you possess the qualities above then you could be a good candidate for entering and being successful in the career of marketing. Marketing offers various career opportunities, so it's easy to choose one that reflects your interest, values, and personal style.
As a marketing major you can gain experience in your chosen career by participating in an internship or volunteering in service learning and community projects. Samples of potential experiences include:
- Conducting Market Research for a Fortune 500 Company.
- Promoting products through development of Point-of-Purchase displays.
- Spending time reviewing potential cost, price, and market research for service programs.
- Learning how to research customer base potential using available data.
- Designing an advertising or promotional campaign to promote new services.
- Developing a marketing plan for a global business.
What if you don't have a college degree in marketing?
Don't worry. I think you will find the statistics in the chart to the right not only interesting, but encouraging. The table below shows the percentage and the degree background of new graduates that have begun a career in marketing.
So now that I've given you hope, how do you get your foot in the door? It will take determination and persistence, but it can be done. You will find that a start in marketing will normally put you in an entry position as a market research assistant, print buyer, general management trainee, or you can enter a program as a graduate trainee.
A few companies that offer marketing graduate trainee programs include:
Mars
Mars does not have a specific marketing training program for graduates. They run a cross-functional management development program, through which graduates have access to opportunities in marketing. Recruits to the program are typically given three to four assignments, the first of which may be related to their experience or studies. The remaining assignments will be in other areas, and one may be overseas. Their goal is to broaden trainees' experiences.
Nestle
Nestle has recently changed its approach to hiring graduates. Nestle recruits in a similar fashion as to how they recruit other employee levels. Each department now recruits graduates throughout the year on an 'as-required' basis. Vacancies will be posted and advertised throughout the year.
Procter and Gamble
Procter & Gamble's graduate training program recruits graduates into one of eight career tracks, including consumer and market knowledge and marketing. Consumer and market knowledge involves sophisticated and proactive market research-based work to identify business opportunities, including new product development. The marketing function involves growing the value of brands within the P&G product range. Marketing trainees will learn about advertising, PR, consumer bonding, direct marketing and project management within their first two years. The applicants are selected according to application form, a problem-solving test, interview, and site visit, where they will meet prospective managers and colleagues.
If you decide that the graduate training program route is not for you; you can still break into the field of marketing by being persistent. You will need to be willing to take on an entry-level position in most marketing agencies and work your way up. If this isn't a problem then it's time to begin your first marketing assignment, which is marketing you by developing that resume.
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The following books are recommended because of their highly practical nature and often because they include a wide range of information about this Library topic. To get more information about each book, just hover your cursor over the image of the book. A "bubble" of information will be displayed. You can click on the title of the book in that bubble to get more information, too.
Basics, Planning and General Information
The following books are recommended because of their highly practical nature and often because they include a wide range of information about this Library topic. To get more information about each book, just hover your cursor over the image of the book. A "bubble" of information will be displayed. You can click on the title of the book in that bubble to get more information, too.
Marketing Basics
Assembled by Carter McNamara, MBA, PhD
Numerous free online resources
15 Foolproof Ideas for Promoting Your Company
Marketing Basics
Marketing Basics for the Small Business
Introduction to Marketing
Adapted from the publication Field Guide to Nonprofit Program Design, Marketing and Evaluation
Basically, you might look at marketing as the wide range of activities involved in making sure that you're continuing to meet the needs of your customers and are getting value in return. Marketing analysis includes finding out what groups of potential customers (or markets) exist, what groups of customers you prefer to serve (target markets), what their needs are, what products or services you might develop to meet their needs, how the customers might prefer to use the products and services, what your competitors are doing, what pricing you should use and how you should distribute products and services to your target markets. Various methods of market research are used to find out information about markets, target markets and their needs, competitors, etc. Marketing also includes ongoing promotions, which can include advertising, public relations, sales and customer service.
Various Perspectives
What's "Advertising, Marketing, Promotion, Public Relations and Publicity, and Sales?"Numerous free online resources
15 Foolproof Ideas for Promoting Your Company
Marketing Basics
Marketing Basics for the Small Business
Introduction to Marketing
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