MARKETSTORM NEWS AND ARTICLES

Getting attention is great for business.
by Duncan McAdams

If marketing your business means a few flyers sent or the occasional radio advert or even an email newsletter then you going to have to do more to get more business. How do you make customers curious, excited, desperate, eager to buy your product or service? I'm sure going to the nearest tall building and yelling at passersby below will have little effect but its not a bad attitude especially if one is wearing a chicken suit. Seriously, nobody buys from a clown so getting attention must be done cleverly and even though humour can play a part.

One way of getting attention is proudly boasting that you're an expert (make sure you do know your stuff of course ). Tell this to as many people as possible; tell them you are good at what you do or that you have an excellent team behind you, broadcast this at every opportunity and you will be surprised by the results. Be excited and animated, show that you love your work - this kind of behaviour is infectious. Even though our 'cultural carrying on' is a bit reserved and we may be labeled as a "bragger" get on a do it - you will rarely find someone that is negative towards you.

"Show off" I say every time, get people believing you are good at what you do by believing it yourself and saying it. (We are brilliant at marketing and advertising by the way)

One of the best ways of getting attention is putting your hand up for everything. Do the networking, go to trade shows, do seminars, get yourself interviewed - these all help you gain attention. Also when you go to places think of something unique to do that grabs people as they walk by. Look at your industry and find something compelling that will create a stir.

At a trade show have something for the kids that will draw adults to your stand or dress your staff unusually.

During your seminars get the audience to do something odd but relevant - a physical action always works - get the audience to stand on their chairs. Ask people interesting questions about themselves when networking or wear an unusual coloured shirt/tie/scarf. Be memorable, get people talking about you afterwards - energy, energy, energy.

Ever met an insurance guy who gave out cheesecake to anyone that signed up for insurance? - bet you would remember if you had. How about the real estate agent that sends an anniversary card to the owners of a new house after 1 year, congratulating them again on a fine purchase and thanking them for their business - good time to ask for a referral.

Every time you meet some one new give them a badge (one of those circular ones) with your name in small letters and a peace sign. It really could be any thing as long as people spread the word about you and take notice. This does take some trial testing and like anything you don't give up on the first go.

We are about to launch an unusual website that is going to be a big attention getter. I will explain more next time. Am I making you curious? Will you remember in 4 days time that I have a secret to tell you? I've got your attention now - who knows?

In finishing, do whatever it takes to get yourself noticed constantly and at every opportunity. Don't act the fool and forget the chicken suit, set out on a journey to be a super star of your industry be loud, be generous and you will get lots of attention.