Valentines Day has come and gone, so now that you’ve shown your sweetie a little love how about focusing some of that TLC on your business?

Here are 3 ideas that you can implement right away:

1. Get some feedback on your image. Choose three people that you trust and have them go to your website. Within 5 seconds can they decipher the focus of your business? Can they navigate your website easily? Process their feedback and create a stronger, more concise message!

2. Create a presence for your business online. You probably have a website, but have you looked into the idea of creating a facebook page, twitter account, or blog for your business?

3. Utilize the power of e-mail. Put together an e-mail newsletter to notify your clients of upcoming discounts, new products, helpful tips, or current news about your business.

Remember a little TLC for your business can go a long way!

2010 is just around the corner. People will be pledging to lose 10 lbs, stop smoking, learn another language, and spend more time with the family.

We get very excited about our resolutions and the possibilities that can be foreseen in the New Year!  But all too often…a month passes and we may not even remember what was pledged in the first place!

Not only can we experience this on a personal level, but this is also relevant in business.  Many of us have ideas on how to make our businesses better in the New Year, but how far will we get without a plan? How about coming up with one?

Start simple…first think of 3 resolutions to better your business in the New Year. Then, write out steps that you can take toward seeing these resolutions come to fruition.  Once you have a plan, start following the steps!  If you feel that you’re falling away from your resolutions, go back and review, maybe even modify your plan of action and press on.  Then as you look back at 2010, your business will be improved and you will feel empowered by a job well done.

Wishing you a successful and prosperous New Year!

Halloween came and went!  And it’s November– the leaves are falling; there’s briskness to the air.  Winter is almost here…and that means the HOLIDAYS will be here soon!

Not only does this mean turkey, pumpkin pie, Santa and reindeer, but it’s a great opportunity to find ways to give a little as well as promote your business. Let’s face it, you’re already planning to put in the time and effort to market your business, but why not make an effort to benefit others in the process.

A few ways that you can do this:

- Thank your clients for a great year with a customized greeting card and a personal note from you
- Create an email newsletter showcasing your new items and promotions
- Mail out a postcard highlighting a special holiday discount
- Find a local charity and give your time, money, and or talents to make someone else’s day better (Click Here for a great opportunity!)
- Update your website with some holiday cheer and a printable coupon
- Send out an invitation to a gathering at your store for some holiday goodies
- Put together a poster for a holiday event or seasonal product
- Help your customers decorate their tree with a unique ornament including your logo and a festive message

This is a season for giving, so remember, be the giver first. Think about what might benefit your clients, customers, prospective clients, and your community during this holiday season.  A little extra effort and kindness goes a long way!