Give Your Web site Some TLC

 You never get a second chance to make a first impression.  For many businesses today, the opportunity to catch someone’s interest comes via your company’s Web site.  Generally, if a prospective client is serious about seeking your services, that person will have “Googled” your company before even speaking to you.  So is your Web site up to date? 

7 Reasons why RFP’s Don’t Work for Websites

I probably receive a formal request for proposal (RFP) once every week and most times I choose not to respond.  There are many reasons why I feel this traditional process does not work for web development and web marketing initiatives and what follows are my top 7.

Why Use Social Media Marketing? A 5 Minute Response

I speak with business owners and individuals every day about Social Media Marketing (SMM) – what it is, what it isn’t, why to do it and how to measure the returns. What follows is my five minute response.

The best definition I’ve heard for SMM is that is mimics face to face networking in a virtual space. It’s word of mouth marketing taken online. It’s part personality and part opinion. To be successful, it must provide value to the target audience.

Social Media Marketing is not like traditional advertising. You cannot push a marketing message out to the masses and expect it to be well received. In many cases, this practice is considered spamming and will be immediately discarded. Those who practice these techniques will find themselves on the wrong end of criticism and lose the ability to garner respect and a following. Advertisers and marketers must first engage their prospect at a personalized level. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the conversation should be about your personal life but rather that you must first establish a relationship built on trust and respect.

To Tweet or not to Tweet? That is the Question.

I get asked everyday “What is Twitter?” and “Why should I use it?”  Twitter is a micr-blogging website where users share tips, ideas, and personal experiences with their “Friends” (AKA followers.)  The message limit is 140 characters so notes are concise and frequently filled with hyperlinks to websites, blogs, etc.  I encourage everyone to find out more by visiting www.twitter.com.  I also found this video on YouTube that is worth a view: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddO9idmax0o

This recession provides time for innovation

I am so tired of bad news pertaining to the economy, especially here in metro Detroit. In financially stressed times, innovation is critical. Today, your customers are using different tools to research and purchase everything from books and electronics, to raw materials and machinery. For US retailers and manufacturers it is time to adapt or die.

The “Twipping” Point?

Over the past six months, I’ve become a fan of Twitter. I “tweet” nearly every day, sharing thoughts and optimistic quotes that I hope will inspire my followers and enhance their lives. I’m not a “just had coffee…” or “walking the dog..” kind of poster. I don’t really belive that has any value to anyone other than the stalkers who have nothing better to do than wonder what I’m doing at this exact moment (AKA no one.) Instead, I try to share various news items, tips, and more that I’ve come across during the day. If nothing comes to mind, I’ll find an inspiring quote that I hope will help others reflect on their current situation and realize how great life is.