[dropcap style=”2″ color=”#f50a0a” text=”T”]he butter of any learning strategy or module focuses on a core statement that is “LEARN TO BE PROACTIVE”. Learn to anticipate mistakes so as to avoid them. In any field of work, there exists a list of “don’ts” that if smartly applied save us from falling in a slippery slope where a single seemingly innocuous mistake can without fuel drag numerous others. Here, we provide you with 20 vital mistakes that you should learn to anticipate and avoid.
20 Top Marketing Pitfalls to Avoid [First 10 – Part I]
11. Assuming you need big money to market
Even the smallest one-man business should cultivate good relations with the press and give his business a boosting energizing shot. You can make the best out of a small budget.
12. Improper targeting
Know your target customers and study their psychology. Being able to perceive the needs of your prospective customers is the first of what you should think of when starting a new marketing plan. Assess properly their expectations and needs. Try to say something to somebody or you will be saying nothing to everybody. “Narrowcast” your marketing message to a specific group who want, need, or have to buy your products. Advertise to remind rather than to impress.
13. Lack of creativity
In any marketing plan or project you initiate, be original and creative. Customers are aware of the “copy paste epidemic”. Be innovative; surround yourself with an environment that inspires you. Keep yourself updated; an article, a book, a place…can be a source of inspiration for you.
14. Incomplete customer feedback
Set up proper follow-up strategies to make sure the customer is satisfied with your services. Listen to your customers and make sure to clarify any sources of misconception. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) application is a great option to organize business between you and your customers.
15. Insufficient information
A common marketing myth is that people don’t read long passages. Keep in mind that if you tell your story in an intriguing juicy way, the readership duration will extend to ways more than 100 words. Capture with customers eyes, ears, and mind! Be detailed in every step you take. It is these minute details that make you unique and different.
16. It is not always the sooner the better!
Don’t begin marketing project thinking about the financial profits. It is true that customers search for immediate gratification and don’t have the guts to wait for a delayed one, yet take your time to plan properly and identify your goals. Use your time wisely and efficiently; in every haste there is a copy paste.
17. Lack of differentiation
Differentiation should be the initiation of any marketing/business plan. As discussed earlier, work on your unique selling proposition and make your product/service different so as to be a source of tough competition in the market.
18. Do not neglect to explain why your prices are lower
Lower prices are a source of suspicions for consumers. They will always unconsciously begin comparing and contrasting. Customers have doubts when your prices are lower than most competition. Often, they would think that they are buying something sub-standard.
19. Missing motivation
If you want your business to be successful, the ability to motivate yourself, your staff and your customers is a crucial key point. Motivation is this zesty drive that pushes you for action. Motivate your staff through bonuses, trips, special events…Implant motivation in you and your staff.
Any marketing strategy should be meticulously tracked so as to assess its flaws and drawbacks. You should not just plan and move ahead; rather you be constantly tracking what you have planned for. Assess properly your return on marketing investment/your marketing pay back.