I was searching for a marketing professional recently to do some work on my company’s website. The promises made on some of these professional sites seem to promise the moon, or at least “number 1 on Google in record time.” Things like that.
But can these marketing pros really do what they say?
I am not one to just take someone’s word for it; I like to do the homework (after all, that’s what I counsel my clients to do!).
So, when requesting business references (to make sure I was about to hire competent professionals), I was deeply disappointed:
- One resource said it was against the law to give references.
- Another gave me three phone numbers — all disconnected.
- A third said he didn’t have any references, but provided 20 year old success stories that had absolutely no relation to my needs. (Besides the fact that internet marketing from two decades ago might seem a tad bit outdated.)
What’s going on here? I’m talking a simple act of professionalism. But not in just providing real live references, but in other things, too. Responding to calls and emails on a timely basis – and letting your customers know how long it may take to respond; and really getting to know your potential customer so that your “pitch” can truly address the business needs, and project doable and desirable results.
Let’s bring professional back. Here are seven suggestions to keep in mind no matter if you’re the client, or the customer.
- Meet your client’s needs, not just your own canned solution.
- When you make a mistake – and chances are you will at some point – own up to them, and correct it yesterday.
- Include realistic actions, time frames and expected results in proposals
- Provide references and case studies that complement your clients’ market.
- Understand client strengths, weaknesses, goals and needs.
- Focus on how your client will benefit, rather than going on and on about how great you are, or repeating tired clichés, or commonly known facts.
- Be balanced in your projected cost projections, making sure not to leave any important component short-changed.
There’s lots more where these suggestions came from; visit startupconnection.net for more real live experiences, and some terrific business guidance.
Dr. Bert Shlensky is president of www.startupconnection.net. He and the Startup Connection team specialize in helping entrepreneurs and their businesses integrate programs, plans, and internet marketing to achieve success.
