You might be saying, “Hey Schubert…enough about the content already!” I hear you. We’ve been blogging about it quite often lately. But, that just means it’s something we believe in. And, according to the recent “2010 Content Marketing Spending” study, we aren’t alone.
B2B Magazine’s article states that 56% of surveyed marketers plan to increase their budgets this year. The percentage of total marketing budgets going to content increased also, up to 33% this year.
Social media tactics, namely Twitter, are the latest craze, but already people are claiming to be burned out. Is that possible? YES.
I jumped on the Twitter wagon with a personal account in February 2009 full speed ahead, no holds barred, tweeting every day. By the end of summer I was burned out. But, instead of wisely slowing to a steady, more manageable pace, I threw up my hands and pulled away from the Twitterverse. So, all the hard work I’d done to build followers and create some influence in the Twitter world went swirling down the social media toilet.
With so many new resources available to and applicable for B2B Marketing, it’s SO easy to get caught up. Blogs and Twitter and Facebook oh my! But, what about older, yet reliable technologies? What about forums?!
We recently started a marketing campaign for a new client that includes almost everything in the “new media toolbox.” But it also includes a forum. Why? Because they work. This client wants to offer its users a common ground to discuss technical issues and new solutions. A forum is the perfect solution.
So, I have to admit, I don’t use forums often. But I stand by the fact that they are still relevant, especially for B2B. For a similar opinion, see Kipp Bodnar’s recent post on Social Media B2B, “Yes, Forums Still Matter, Especially in B2B.”
It’s that time of year again…every other commercial is for the series premiere of this or the season premiere of that. So, what’s in your fall line up?
Are you opting to keep it simple with something a bit outdated, but very trustworthy and predictable such as direct mail (the TV equivalent of CSI)? Or how about Public Relations — a traditional tactic that can deliver some rewarding twists and turns (Grey’s Anatomy)? Then, there’s always the push to indulge in something new and completely unpredictable, like Twitter (Fringe).
No matter what your marketing fall line up includes, remember to keep a balance. It’s important to outline your goals and objectives, weighing which tactics will deliver the outcome you seek.
Is your Web site a Delta Leader instead of a leader in sales and marketing? If you’re having trouble harnessing the power of your Web site, send it on a date with your public relations team – you’ll get great results!
Today’s online newsroom can be a high-value, low-cost springboard to media coverage. But, nearly 40% of journalists say it’s difficult to locate the information they need on corporate Web sites, according to a recent survey by The Bulldog Reporter. It is exceedingly important to provide appropriate, easy-to-find information for journalists, customers, prospects and investors.
Our first blog post about Twitter came from Deb Yemenijian, a trusty Schubert PR Exec., almost exactly two years ago (Twitterpated, May 17th, 2007). But, only within the past few months has a true Twitter explosion occurred – jumping to more than 9.3 million users and the third most used social network (behind Facebook and MySpace).
Many Schubert team members have found Twitter useful to build relationships with editors, prospects, clients and peers. I personally have found it a great research tool. Twitter is my new google (in some cases).
I’d love to hear how you are using Twitter – please comment. I’d also like to take this opportunity to formally introduce the Schubert staff who tweet regularly. Join the conversation and follow us!
The percentage of sales closed based on a variety of criteria, including leads, suspects, prospects, offers, etc.
An offer pitched to 10 prospects resulted in two closed orders — close ratio is 20 percent. Maintaining a strong close ratio is improved when calling on the right prospects, there is a compelling reason, a comfort level and a level of consistency. You are much more likely to land an appointment — and the deal — if you introduce yourself and the prospect says, “I have heard of your company.”
The value of a company’s brand in the mind of the market, directly related to the number of positive or negative impressions they receive.
Brand equity goes hand-in-hand with being the preferred brand. You brand is only as valuable as buyers perceive it to be. Marketing communications helps put your message in front of prospects to get the attention you deserve.
