Insight on Business - August 11, 2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is our look at our craft of marketing, advertising  and consumer trends.  We'll share what we think works...and what doesn't and offer up some tips to help you grab a larger market share.  It's made possible through the support of NatraTurf and Bindery One and for you...it's still...free.  Let's go:

Face to Face Networking

In reality it's what we long for.  Yes, I have several thousand folks who follow me on my various social media accounts which gives me a "leg up" to know more about them when we meet face-to-face.  Some I may never meet...but it's engaging to learn from others and share experiences.  Later this morning I'm off to do some "old-school" networking.  The face-to-face type at an Urbandale Chamber function where we'll "network" with new people for two minutes, the whistle blows and we're off to meet somebody else.  I'm looking forward to putting a body with the ideas.  Should be fun.

One Million People...

But are they the right folks?  Today the gates open at the great Iowa State Fair.  Traditionally one of the best state fairs in the nation with about one-million folks attending the eleven day event.  I'm often surprised at the number of companies who fail to attend or fail to use this event to learn more about consumers. (No, I'm not normal...I view the fair as a window of learning.)  We're going for several days to test market several new items for a couple of clients.  No...not "industry insiders" but about a million consumers.  We won't get to them all but we'll learn plenty at an event that should be on the top of the list...especially for Iowa based companies.

Social Media?  Forget It...

We've been using Social Media for years and we encourage our clients to use SM to connect with consumers and customers.  Some do...and, more often than not, many fail.  Even with us harping and showing and doing.  It's astounding...but given the fact that most small business people don't see a value in SM it is not surprising.  That's why we love to post articles like this from the Globe and Mail.  It just makes our point and our job easier...if people read it.

Worried?  Don't Be

Back in 2008, when times were good and folks were flying high, we warned our clients that "times change".  And...they did about six months after we called it.  Those who listened to us and continued to market and continued to develop new products/services won a larger market share.  Those who didn't...didn't.  In the end it was their choice.  You can "listen to your doctor" or ignore the advice.  We're back at being uncertain again...  We know those companies who looked in the face of the economics of 2009 and said, "Screw you!  I'm marching forward." will again win market share.  Those who "duck and run" will continue to bleed.  We can help you understand why you should grow and build...if you want.  And it's always nice to have "back-up" so here's a quick piece from my friend Jim Connolly.  Just for insurance.

Thanks And Go Build Something!

Thanks for stopping by.  Hope some of this information helps.  If you would like to connect let's do that here or on Twitter @MichaelLibbie (personal and business) or @InsightADV (business baby...business) and here is our agency Facebook Page.  Have a great Thursday! - Michael 

 

Comments

[Denis Pepin]

Hello, I am Denis Pepin, creator and copyright owner of the photo of myself acting stressed-out and worried.

I just want to say thank you for using my photo to illustrate your article and have a happy new year!!!

Denis Pepin
http://denispepin.com

[Michael Libbie]

Denis! Love your work and so happy you were able to find our use...useful. Question: Do you find royality free sites useful for your work? Thanks again for the note and Happy New Year...back atcha! - Michael