Website Marketing Plan News, June 13, 2005

Today’s feature article is in two parts. Part 1 of “Profitable Marketing Strategies” explains how to take into account both short term and long term profits when deciding on marketing programs. Part 2, “Figuring Break Even Point,” explains the break even analysis under different situations.

The WebSiteMarketingPlan.com Network News, June 1, 2005

This month I attended a seminar given by Shel Horowitz, author of Principled Profit: Marketing That Puts People First. My first thought - as I walked in the door early and saw this slightly gnome-like dude wearing a Grassroots Marketing t-shirt - was “Is that him?” Yes, it was. I was liking him already. As the evening progressed (t-shirt exchanged for sportscoat), a different gnome emerged and I liked Shel even more: Win-win marketing is all about the Golden Rule.

(I have to fess up here. I didn’t really know that second definition of gnome this morning when I got out of bed - the one that goes something like: “a saying that expresses a general truth” - By happy accident, I stumbled across it.)

Anyway, much of the Principled Profit principles involve concepts I already try to do business by. It’s hard to pull only one quote from the book as my favorite, but this one ranks up there: “Successful marketing looks for a deep and long-lasting relationship based on meeting the needs and wants of everyone involved. That means your customers, your employees, your suppliers, and yes, even your competitors!”

If you are intrigued, have a look at Shel’s Ethical Business Pledge (and sign it if you are so inclined). While you are there, check out the Principled Profit book. As FYI, I get nothing out of it if you buy the book. I just think it makes for a wonderful read and a well-spent $17.50. More about the pledge and the book are on Shel’s site here:
http://www.principledprofits.com

Pricing Strategies and Your Target Market

Today’s feature article, “Pricing Strategies in Marketing,” may give you some ideas for jump-starting profit. I explain eleven different pricing approaches and a bit about how the Internet has changed the availability of pricing information.

In the guest article “Target Market - 3 Big Reasons You Need To Know Yours,” copywriter Maggie Dennison explains how understanding the needs and wants that drive your target market affects your marketing materials.