Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Hollis-Testamonial
Great Video I shot of Hollis Thomas - Former Philadelphia Eagle - at the Wynnewood Fitness Station. You can check them out at http://www.myfitnessstation.com
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Outsourced Social Media
Hello! I hope you all are enjoying your Summer! For me it is my favorite time of the year. Summer means visiting the South Jersey Shore, grilling, spending time outdoors, being with friends and enjoying my Family. It is also the time that I spend reviewing my accomplishments from the first half of the year to make sure I am on track to reach my goals.
If you know me, you know I'm a goals guy. I may not always reach them, but I always try and I always learn from any shortfalls. I also spend a lot of time reviewing my clients goals. The feedback I get from many is that despite my giving them the foundation for a great social media and online marketing program, they ultimately are spending too much time on operations to "work the program".
I preach consistency. If you are going to have a social media strategy for your business, you must stick to it. I send out an inspirational message every Monday morning on FaceBook. It serves three purposes:
1. It informs
2. It inspires
3. It keeps me top of mind with those who read it.
If you want to have success with online marketing, you must have a consistent message with relevant content. People will begin to look forward to your messages.
The problem many of my clients face is having the time or the discipline to put something out there at the same time every week. "I was too busy" or "I completely spaced it" are common culprits. I suggest that they put a reminder on their calendar and make it a recurring event. That way each week, your message will go out with consistency. Still, they can "snooze" the event and hence procrastination is in full force. To that end, I have developed a program, which YOUR Company can take advantage of. Let Solstice Media be your outsourced Social Media Marketing Department! Save on payroll taxes, insurance and HealthCare costs, which come with an employee and have a business expense to write off instead! See the details below and thanks for taking the time to read this blog!
Be Awesome!!
-Pete
If you know me, you know I'm a goals guy. I may not always reach them, but I always try and I always learn from any shortfalls. I also spend a lot of time reviewing my clients goals. The feedback I get from many is that despite my giving them the foundation for a great social media and online marketing program, they ultimately are spending too much time on operations to "work the program".
I preach consistency. If you are going to have a social media strategy for your business, you must stick to it. I send out an inspirational message every Monday morning on FaceBook. It serves three purposes:
1. It informs
2. It inspires
3. It keeps me top of mind with those who read it.
If you want to have success with online marketing, you must have a consistent message with relevant content. People will begin to look forward to your messages.
The problem many of my clients face is having the time or the discipline to put something out there at the same time every week. "I was too busy" or "I completely spaced it" are common culprits. I suggest that they put a reminder on their calendar and make it a recurring event. That way each week, your message will go out with consistency. Still, they can "snooze" the event and hence procrastination is in full force. To that end, I have developed a program, which YOUR Company can take advantage of. Let Solstice Media be your outsourced Social Media Marketing Department! Save on payroll taxes, insurance and HealthCare costs, which come with an employee and have a business expense to write off instead! See the details below and thanks for taking the time to read this blog!
Be Awesome!!
-Pete
Monday, March 25, 2013
A Change of Seasons Gives Clients New Reasons!
Hello Everyone! Hope you are doing well this year! Here in the Philly area, despite being Spring, it is snowing outside. Not really conducive to planting a garden. But it is conducive to planting seeds. And I'm not talking about tomato and basil seeds in soil in egg cartons on your window sill. I'm talking about planting the seeds of consideration into the minds of your potential clients. Make them consider choosing you over their current service or products provider.
How do you do this? It's easier than you think. Use the changing of the seasons to correlate into a changing of providers. A great way to do this is to offer a seasonal promotion. Last week I took literally 10 minutes of my time to create a Spring Special Flyer on Constant Contact. You can use whichever Contact Management System works for you. I offered a basic video shoot at a special price point. I chose a category of small businesses/sole proprietors to mail the blast to. I got three calls and closed one. I mailed to 260 individuals.
I led with "Spring Has Sprung" - "Plant the Seeds to Grow Your Business". The season was my reason! And it worked. I am confident I will close a second sale from my conversations. I did reduce my price that I would normally charge, but that is why it's a special. And I am confident that once they see my work and benefit from it, they will hire me again at full invoice.
So it worked. Ten minutes of time to gain a new client. Not too shabby. It can work in any industry, just tailor your message to your recipients. Where did I get my mailing list? I developed it over time by collecting business cards at networking events and I entered names from the database of my local Chamber of Commerce. Once I created the blast, I quick-shared it onto FaceBook and LinkedIn.
So take a few minutes to earn a new client today. Give them a reason to choose YOU this season!
Happy Hunting! -Pete
How do you do this? It's easier than you think. Use the changing of the seasons to correlate into a changing of providers. A great way to do this is to offer a seasonal promotion. Last week I took literally 10 minutes of my time to create a Spring Special Flyer on Constant Contact. You can use whichever Contact Management System works for you. I offered a basic video shoot at a special price point. I chose a category of small businesses/sole proprietors to mail the blast to. I got three calls and closed one. I mailed to 260 individuals.
I led with "Spring Has Sprung" - "Plant the Seeds to Grow Your Business". The season was my reason! And it worked. I am confident I will close a second sale from my conversations. I did reduce my price that I would normally charge, but that is why it's a special. And I am confident that once they see my work and benefit from it, they will hire me again at full invoice.
So it worked. Ten minutes of time to gain a new client. Not too shabby. It can work in any industry, just tailor your message to your recipients. Where did I get my mailing list? I developed it over time by collecting business cards at networking events and I entered names from the database of my local Chamber of Commerce. Once I created the blast, I quick-shared it onto FaceBook and LinkedIn.
So take a few minutes to earn a new client today. Give them a reason to choose YOU this season!
Happy Hunting! -Pete
Monday, February 11, 2013
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Back to School means Back to Business!
Hello everyone! Summer is winding down and the addition of school buses has added to the traffic out there! Nothing is a more poignant reminder of Summer's end than sitting for 20 minutes just to get through one intersection on Route 1!
But something good comes from all this traffic and from this time of year. People are tanned, rested and ready to hit the ground running! It's the end of the heatwaves, leaves start turning colors, football begins and our utility bills go down. (for now!)
So here's what to do:
1. Send out a blast to all your past, present and potential clients that wishes them well and offers your products and services. It's a numbers game, so the more you reach out, the more hits you will get. My Summer blast yielded me 5 happy clients who took advantage of 1 great special. That's $3750 I would not have had this Summer. Not too shabby.
2. Review your goals from the beginning of the year and set a goal for the Fall. Determine what successes and failures you had earlier in the year and base your Fall goal on learning from the failures and building on the successes. For example, my Business Start-Up promotion did not work but my Social Media Package did. I realize the errors I made in the Start-Up promotion and will no longer promote that to existing business contacts. (I realize the irony of sending a start-up offer to an existing business, but I thought I would reach companies who were starting a new division or opening a new location, etc.. I was wrong.) The Social Media package was a big success, so I will spread that word to more businesses.
3. NETWORK! Join a chamber of commerce, networking group, business association or meetup group and attend functions. You will meet potential clients or individuals who can refer potential clients. Nobody is buying in your office. Get out there and press the flesh!
4. Re-educate yourself. Go online and research the latest trends and developments in your industry. Learn how the latest technologies can help you streamline your efforts and garner the highest output within your work hours.
5. Find time to relax. Find time for you. A quick walk, time outside on a park bench or even a moment in a quiet corner meditating will help you decompress, find your center and focus.
I wish you every success 'til next time!
-Pete
But something good comes from all this traffic and from this time of year. People are tanned, rested and ready to hit the ground running! It's the end of the heatwaves, leaves start turning colors, football begins and our utility bills go down. (for now!)
So here's what to do:
1. Send out a blast to all your past, present and potential clients that wishes them well and offers your products and services. It's a numbers game, so the more you reach out, the more hits you will get. My Summer blast yielded me 5 happy clients who took advantage of 1 great special. That's $3750 I would not have had this Summer. Not too shabby.
2. Review your goals from the beginning of the year and set a goal for the Fall. Determine what successes and failures you had earlier in the year and base your Fall goal on learning from the failures and building on the successes. For example, my Business Start-Up promotion did not work but my Social Media Package did. I realize the errors I made in the Start-Up promotion and will no longer promote that to existing business contacts. (I realize the irony of sending a start-up offer to an existing business, but I thought I would reach companies who were starting a new division or opening a new location, etc.. I was wrong.) The Social Media package was a big success, so I will spread that word to more businesses.
3. NETWORK! Join a chamber of commerce, networking group, business association or meetup group and attend functions. You will meet potential clients or individuals who can refer potential clients. Nobody is buying in your office. Get out there and press the flesh!
4. Re-educate yourself. Go online and research the latest trends and developments in your industry. Learn how the latest technologies can help you streamline your efforts and garner the highest output within your work hours.
5. Find time to relax. Find time for you. A quick walk, time outside on a park bench or even a moment in a quiet corner meditating will help you decompress, find your center and focus.
I wish you every success 'til next time!
-Pete
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Summertime Blues
Hey Folks! I hope you are enjoying your Summer. I know I have been. Business has been steady, but it could be better. It seems there is always a lull during the Summer. It's not for my lack of trying, but it seems like potential clients and decision makers have two speeds in the Summer - "slow" and "reverse"!
So what can you do to offset this? Here's a few ideas:
1. Expect it and plan for it. There is always going to be the challenge of trying to reach clients, but it is caused by them being away on vacation. You can't reach them if they are not near the phone. So set up a plan of action in the spring that you can work on gradually. Offer them a value and get a deposit to make sure they are committed. Then send them interim updates as your project progresses. Collect the balance in the fall!
2. Put 5% of every job aside in a vacation club. Setting aside some money in a SEPARATE account will give you the discipline needed to save for a vacation of your own! Hey - You've earned it! After vacation is over - keep the account open as a Christmas Club!
3. Offer a "Summer Blowout" or "Back to School" Special. I don't know about you, but I would rather have something than nothing. By offering a seasonal special, you can encourage new clients to try your products or services and by listing it as a seasonal special, you can maintain rate integrity during busy seasons.
4. Take a part time job. There are lots of Summer jobs available that may not pay what you want, but they could fill your income gap and help you maintain your financial commitments. Jobs at resorts, pools, camps, seasonal markets, farming co-ops, etc are available and are usually pretty flexible. Also - it may be a great way to turn that part-time boss into a full time client of your business once they see how awesome you are!
5. Clean out your work space. Get organized! Clean off you desk, sort through your files and discard what's no longer in use. Send e-mail to old prospects, follow up send notes to old clients saying "We want yo back" and offer them your seasonal special. Remove the clutter from your work and your life. You may just find that number you lost months ago!
6. Review YOUR vendor deals. Look at every supplier you have and compare prices with other vendors and negotiate better deals. Cell phone service, internet providers, cable TV, office supplies, insurance, mortgage, etc. You could save hundreds even thousands annually.
I hope these tips have helped. So go out there and be awesome and remember to take some time for your self and your Family this Summer. See you in the Fall!
-Pete
So what can you do to offset this? Here's a few ideas:
1. Expect it and plan for it. There is always going to be the challenge of trying to reach clients, but it is caused by them being away on vacation. You can't reach them if they are not near the phone. So set up a plan of action in the spring that you can work on gradually. Offer them a value and get a deposit to make sure they are committed. Then send them interim updates as your project progresses. Collect the balance in the fall!
2. Put 5% of every job aside in a vacation club. Setting aside some money in a SEPARATE account will give you the discipline needed to save for a vacation of your own! Hey - You've earned it! After vacation is over - keep the account open as a Christmas Club!
3. Offer a "Summer Blowout" or "Back to School" Special. I don't know about you, but I would rather have something than nothing. By offering a seasonal special, you can encourage new clients to try your products or services and by listing it as a seasonal special, you can maintain rate integrity during busy seasons.
4. Take a part time job. There are lots of Summer jobs available that may not pay what you want, but they could fill your income gap and help you maintain your financial commitments. Jobs at resorts, pools, camps, seasonal markets, farming co-ops, etc are available and are usually pretty flexible. Also - it may be a great way to turn that part-time boss into a full time client of your business once they see how awesome you are!
5. Clean out your work space. Get organized! Clean off you desk, sort through your files and discard what's no longer in use. Send e-mail to old prospects, follow up send notes to old clients saying "We want yo back" and offer them your seasonal special. Remove the clutter from your work and your life. You may just find that number you lost months ago!
6. Review YOUR vendor deals. Look at every supplier you have and compare prices with other vendors and negotiate better deals. Cell phone service, internet providers, cable TV, office supplies, insurance, mortgage, etc. You could save hundreds even thousands annually.
I hope these tips have helped. So go out there and be awesome and remember to take some time for your self and your Family this Summer. See you in the Fall!
-Pete
Thursday, May 3, 2012
It's been a while!
How have you been? I've missed writing to you! I have been incredibly busy...and that's a good thing! I was recently honored by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce being awarded the "Small Business Person of the Year"! It has been a boost to my business and my ego as well!
I have been doing a lot of video work lately and you can see some of it on my YouTube page which is http://www.youtube.com/petetube1965 . Please let me know your thoughts! A majority of the videos are short business podcasts produced at The Delco Chamber. By the way, joining the chamber gets you a FREE video session. Contact me for more info on that.
So again, I am sorry for not writing in a while, but my customers always come first. If you need any help with your business, please don't hesitate to e-mail me or call me at 610.529.0122.
Take care and be awesome!
-Pete
I have been doing a lot of video work lately and you can see some of it on my YouTube page which is http://www.youtube.com/petetube1965 . Please let me know your thoughts! A majority of the videos are short business podcasts produced at The Delco Chamber. By the way, joining the chamber gets you a FREE video session. Contact me for more info on that.
So again, I am sorry for not writing in a while, but my customers always come first. If you need any help with your business, please don't hesitate to e-mail me or call me at 610.529.0122.
Take care and be awesome!
-Pete
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Wow! Please forgive me for not posting in such a long while. The good news is, I have been very busy! So many exciting things are happening with my clients. We are seeing growth in all areas of business. Here's some of the ways we have helped our clients:
Web Re-Design - Re-designing and updating your website often keeps things fresh and keeps the search engines revving!
Organic SEO - Finding appropriate link sources with open content comment areas is a great way to exercise organic search engine optimization.
Video Podcasts - Google listings with a well produced video attached have a significantly higher open rate. Coupled with a quick message are super-effective!
Strategic Media Placement - If you throw a lot of darts, you will eventually hit a bulls eye. If you increase the size of the bulls eye, you will increase the likelihood of hitting your target. Choose targeted marketing sources - those that over-deliver on your desired demographic.
Networking - Joining associations such as your local Chamber of Commerce or networking associations are great ways to share your message with a captive audience. There is nothing better than a personal referral.
Database Management - Periodic blasts and blogs to your potential customers is critical to remaining top of mind.
I have been reviewing my goals for 2011 and reached my sales goal a few weeks back! Reviewing my goals was critical to my success as I was lagging after the 2nd quarter. I re-focused my efforts and eliminated the various clutters that were hindering my growth. If you would like to talk about how Solstice Media can help you reach your goals, please don't hesitate to ask.
And enjoy whatever Holiday you may choose to celebrate, but I want to wish you all a safe, healthy and blessed Christmas!
Cheers ~ Pete
Monday, September 26, 2011
Back to School Special
My kids are back in school and that's pretty special! What this means for me - a small business owner whose wife also works - is more uninterrupted time during the week. It allows me to schedule more and longer appointments without having to worry if my business fee is being offset by childcare costs!
How do other small businesses cope with these challenges? I would love to hear your story and see if we can't exchange helpful hints. I am fortunate that most of my work can be done anywhere as long as I have my laptop and web access, which I do always have. This choice to live my life a little closer to home has its challenges, but I wouldn't change it for the World. I have plenty of time for appointments with my clients as long as I plan well. As a matter of fact, my retainer clients have 7 days per week access to me. I also have time to coach my kids, volunteer at Church and sneak away for the occasional lunch with my wife.
You'll find in life - no matter what your life is like - that planning is the key to success. A major component of planning is having a clear goal in mind. Documenting your progress and re-visiting your goals along the way is also key.
So as I find myself enjoying the mandatory school day time away from my kids, I also find myself missing them. I appreciate my Family so much and I am grateful for the time I have with them every day! I know that they are the catalyst for all my goals and their well being is the ultimate success.
So if you have the gumption to go out and start your own business, know that the rewards - if you do things right - can far outweigh the risks.
Take care and let me know your thoughts.
-Pete
How do other small businesses cope with these challenges? I would love to hear your story and see if we can't exchange helpful hints. I am fortunate that most of my work can be done anywhere as long as I have my laptop and web access, which I do always have. This choice to live my life a little closer to home has its challenges, but I wouldn't change it for the World. I have plenty of time for appointments with my clients as long as I plan well. As a matter of fact, my retainer clients have 7 days per week access to me. I also have time to coach my kids, volunteer at Church and sneak away for the occasional lunch with my wife.
You'll find in life - no matter what your life is like - that planning is the key to success. A major component of planning is having a clear goal in mind. Documenting your progress and re-visiting your goals along the way is also key.
So as I find myself enjoying the mandatory school day time away from my kids, I also find myself missing them. I appreciate my Family so much and I am grateful for the time I have with them every day! I know that they are the catalyst for all my goals and their well being is the ultimate success.
So if you have the gumption to go out and start your own business, know that the rewards - if you do things right - can far outweigh the risks.
Take care and let me know your thoughts.
-Pete
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
What Beer Taught Me About Business!
I love my business and I love beer....both in moderation! I don't want to work all the time and I don't want to drink beer all the time. The reality is that I work far more than I drink beer and that is probably a good thing. It's definitely a good thing.
But there are many business lessons we can learn from beer and here are a few:
1. Too much pressure can bring things to a head. If you allow the stress and pressures of your business to overwhelm you, that is bad. Step back, consider what is causing the pressure and try to address it calmly and directly. Communication, reflection and reviews are all tools which can alleviate pressure. "Tilt the Glass" if you will!
2. One great product is not great for everyone. If you go into a bar and they only have the World's greatest Pilsner on Tap, you will probably be disappointed if you don't like Pilsners. People want a variety of products and services available to them so they fell they can make a choice based on their needs.
3. Great Marketing is essential. Knowing what a demographic desires is essential to your success. In the beer business, people want fun associated with flavor. That is why folks will order brews with names such as "Mad Elf", Wailing Wench" and "Yellow Snow". Names like this would not necessarily work for automobiles or patio furniture. So know your market and appeal to it.
4. Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Don't oversell your clients to make a quick sale. In the long run, you may have alienated them as they realize they have more than they need of a product or service and have overspent. At least in business they probably won't throw up on your shoes!
5. Sometimes mixing can be a good thing. It is good to want all of your clients' business, but sometimes you have to cooperate and work well with other service providers. Be supportive of this and as professional as possible. There are many occasions when I have to work with other Designers or Developers that a client has enlisted. I make sure to be respectful of their visions but also make sure I have a valid objection if one needs to be taken to the client. Be professional and care about the client's needs and everything will be fine. Why can't we all just get along?! Shot and a beer anyone?
So until next time, have a great business week, enjoy the Labor Day Holiday Weekend and PLEASE don't drink and drive!
-Pete
But there are many business lessons we can learn from beer and here are a few:
1. Too much pressure can bring things to a head. If you allow the stress and pressures of your business to overwhelm you, that is bad. Step back, consider what is causing the pressure and try to address it calmly and directly. Communication, reflection and reviews are all tools which can alleviate pressure. "Tilt the Glass" if you will!
2. One great product is not great for everyone. If you go into a bar and they only have the World's greatest Pilsner on Tap, you will probably be disappointed if you don't like Pilsners. People want a variety of products and services available to them so they fell they can make a choice based on their needs.
3. Great Marketing is essential. Knowing what a demographic desires is essential to your success. In the beer business, people want fun associated with flavor. That is why folks will order brews with names such as "Mad Elf", Wailing Wench" and "Yellow Snow". Names like this would not necessarily work for automobiles or patio furniture. So know your market and appeal to it.
4. Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Don't oversell your clients to make a quick sale. In the long run, you may have alienated them as they realize they have more than they need of a product or service and have overspent. At least in business they probably won't throw up on your shoes!
5. Sometimes mixing can be a good thing. It is good to want all of your clients' business, but sometimes you have to cooperate and work well with other service providers. Be supportive of this and as professional as possible. There are many occasions when I have to work with other Designers or Developers that a client has enlisted. I make sure to be respectful of their visions but also make sure I have a valid objection if one needs to be taken to the client. Be professional and care about the client's needs and everything will be fine. Why can't we all just get along?! Shot and a beer anyone?
So until next time, have a great business week, enjoy the Labor Day Holiday Weekend and PLEASE don't drink and drive!
-Pete
Monday, August 8, 2011
With friends like you....
Ah, the old adage: "With friends like you, who needs enemies?!" It speaks to the hurt you may endure when a friend does you wrong. There are many great small businesses, which were started by friends and have thrived. But you also hear horror stories about how a business and a friendship was lost.
Another angle is when you start off as a client and a vendor and become friends. The down side can be allowing receivables to slip off and guilt over charging from the "rate card".
Here's a third scenario: ignoring your friends when a client is around.
Let's address these one at a time.
If you are considering going into business with a friend, make sure you put everything in writing. Do not think your friendship puts you above security and organization. Establish your roles. Who is the idea person and who is the implementer? Who is the sales person and who is the collector? What is the revenue share and how much will be reinvested into the business? You may also want to consider taking online personality profiles to see if you would mesh in a business environment. If you think you can handle it, then go for it. But remember, money and friendship don't always mix.
It's a great thing to develop relationships with your clients. It makes it harder for them to fire you when the competition comes around with a stronger offer. But on the other side of the coin, it makes it harder for you to say no when they ask for a payment extension or some freebies/favors. It takes discipline to say no when a client/friend asks for a favor. Be flexible when you can, but remind them that this is hurting you and needs to be a one-time favor. Again - the best thing you can do is to put everything in writing. It shows up front that you are a professional and keeps everything above board.
Finally, if you really value your friends, be loyal to them. If you are out with your friends and you bump into a client, introduce them. It doesn't matter if your friends are being a drunk idiot or not. They are your friends..the ones you can count on through thick and thin. Your clients will understand if your buddy has his underwear on his head and a shoe missing because somewhere out there they have a friend who is doing the same thing!
So the moral of the story is this: Friends and business make strange bedfellows, but if handled properly and with respect and constant honest communication, can be a formula for success.
Until next time my friends,
Pete
Another angle is when you start off as a client and a vendor and become friends. The down side can be allowing receivables to slip off and guilt over charging from the "rate card".
Here's a third scenario: ignoring your friends when a client is around.
Let's address these one at a time.
If you are considering going into business with a friend, make sure you put everything in writing. Do not think your friendship puts you above security and organization. Establish your roles. Who is the idea person and who is the implementer? Who is the sales person and who is the collector? What is the revenue share and how much will be reinvested into the business? You may also want to consider taking online personality profiles to see if you would mesh in a business environment. If you think you can handle it, then go for it. But remember, money and friendship don't always mix.
It's a great thing to develop relationships with your clients. It makes it harder for them to fire you when the competition comes around with a stronger offer. But on the other side of the coin, it makes it harder for you to say no when they ask for a payment extension or some freebies/favors. It takes discipline to say no when a client/friend asks for a favor. Be flexible when you can, but remind them that this is hurting you and needs to be a one-time favor. Again - the best thing you can do is to put everything in writing. It shows up front that you are a professional and keeps everything above board.
Finally, if you really value your friends, be loyal to them. If you are out with your friends and you bump into a client, introduce them. It doesn't matter if your friends are being a drunk idiot or not. They are your friends..the ones you can count on through thick and thin. Your clients will understand if your buddy has his underwear on his head and a shoe missing because somewhere out there they have a friend who is doing the same thing!
So the moral of the story is this: Friends and business make strange bedfellows, but if handled properly and with respect and constant honest communication, can be a formula for success.
Until next time my friends,
Pete
Friday, July 8, 2011
Minnows for Sale!
So while vacationing in Avalon Manor, New Jersey, I was reminded by my Son of how traditional business principles still hold true.
1. Give a customer what they want or need for a fair price.
2. Location, location, location.
3. Prepare a marketing plan that is targeted and within your budget.
4. Create an opportunity for repeat business.
Tommy is selling minnows to people who need fishing bait. He has a goal in mind. Make enough money by the end of Summer to buy a new video game and match those funds in his bank account savings. At his current rate of sales, he should hit that goal in about 2 weeks!
So here's how he followed the four principles mentioned above:
1. Customers need bait if they want to catch fish. He sells a pint of A#1 minnows for $5. Nobody has blinked at the price. Flounder love minnows.
2. We are just down the street from a municipal fishing pier with dozens of people fishing from it every day. The Marina sells squid, but not minnows.
3. Tommy has placed signs on the main road advertising minnows for sale and pointing towards our hose. People knock up and he sells them their minnows. He printed the signs at a total cost of about 30ç TOTAL and mounted them on recycled driftwood and old plywood scraps.
4. Tommy let each customer know we would be here on the weekends and told them he would discount the next order if they re-used the plastic container he provided. They all said they would be back.
I am so proud that Tommy has a bit of the Old Man's business savvy! Nothing in this life comes to you, you have to go get it.....and this Kid's a go-getter! He has showed me that solid business principles still work and that you can't be a success without a goal and a plan.
If you need help reaching YOUR goals, please don't hesitate to e-mail me. And if you need minnows, please come to Avalon Manor!
Tune in next time to see what my Son Joey is doing to save up for an iPod Touch!
Take care - Pete
1. Give a customer what they want or need for a fair price.
2. Location, location, location.
3. Prepare a marketing plan that is targeted and within your budget.
4. Create an opportunity for repeat business.
Tommy is selling minnows to people who need fishing bait. He has a goal in mind. Make enough money by the end of Summer to buy a new video game and match those funds in his bank account savings. At his current rate of sales, he should hit that goal in about 2 weeks!
So here's how he followed the four principles mentioned above:
1. Customers need bait if they want to catch fish. He sells a pint of A#1 minnows for $5. Nobody has blinked at the price. Flounder love minnows.
2. We are just down the street from a municipal fishing pier with dozens of people fishing from it every day. The Marina sells squid, but not minnows.
3. Tommy has placed signs on the main road advertising minnows for sale and pointing towards our hose. People knock up and he sells them their minnows. He printed the signs at a total cost of about 30ç TOTAL and mounted them on recycled driftwood and old plywood scraps.
4. Tommy let each customer know we would be here on the weekends and told them he would discount the next order if they re-used the plastic container he provided. They all said they would be back.
I am so proud that Tommy has a bit of the Old Man's business savvy! Nothing in this life comes to you, you have to go get it.....and this Kid's a go-getter! He has showed me that solid business principles still work and that you can't be a success without a goal and a plan.
If you need help reaching YOUR goals, please don't hesitate to e-mail me. And if you need minnows, please come to Avalon Manor!
Tune in next time to see what my Son Joey is doing to save up for an iPod Touch!
Take care - Pete
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The First Step is the Hardest to Take
We've all been there. Planning that pet project in our head. Organize my workspace, clean out the garage, write the great American novel, start an exercise routine, etc.
I am not willing to help you with any of those things.
But if your pet project is to get started with a social media initiative for your business, then I'm your man!
Solstice Media is currently offering a Summer Special on a New Media package. I will come to your place of business and produce a video during a two hour session. We will post the video on YouTube. We'll then get your business set up on FaceBook, Twitter and LinkedIN. We'll create a blog for your business and write the first one. Then I will come out and train you how to work all of them. All for the special price of $795!!
Social Media for business is a great way to market your product or services for free and with results.
Solstice can also get you set up with an AdWords account or pay per click campaign. We can also develop a website or launch page for you.
So take that first step and call Solstice Media today!
By the way - Happy SOLSTICE!!
Pete Ricci - Solstice Media
I am not willing to help you with any of those things.
But if your pet project is to get started with a social media initiative for your business, then I'm your man!
Solstice Media is currently offering a Summer Special on a New Media package. I will come to your place of business and produce a video during a two hour session. We will post the video on YouTube. We'll then get your business set up on FaceBook, Twitter and LinkedIN. We'll create a blog for your business and write the first one. Then I will come out and train you how to work all of them. All for the special price of $795!!
Social Media for business is a great way to market your product or services for free and with results.
Solstice can also get you set up with an AdWords account or pay per click campaign. We can also develop a website or launch page for you.
So take that first step and call Solstice Media today!
By the way - Happy SOLSTICE!!
Pete Ricci - Solstice Media
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Where Have I Been?!?!
Bless me readers for I have sinned. It has been 9 months since my last posting. That is the normal gestation period for humans and although I am a male and can not be pregnant, I have been busy giving birth to a number of accomplishments!
I have partnered up with The Power Room and helped create a video studio complete with green screen. We have been mostly producing music videos, but are now offering business podcasts, web telecasts, live streaming video and infomercials. Very exciting stuff.
Solstice is also handling projects for Artist Ardeth Sobyak, The Chester City GOP, National Realty Corporation, Advanced Cleanout, Executive Health Resources and MyKidsBFit.com. A very busy couple of months to say the least.
Personally, my charitable and volunteer initiatives are in full swing as well. I am on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee for the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, where I also run the Social Media/Marketing Committee and serve on the Executive Search Committee. Our Charity, Tommy's Gifts for Kids is growing nicely, events are in full swing at St George's Episcopal Church in Ardmore, Pa, where I am the Fund Raising Chair and I am coaching The Dodgers Rookie Baseball Team at Drexel Hill Little League.
So, obviously I am busy, but that is no excuse for not keeping in touch. For that I am sorry.
Talk to you again (real) soon. -Pete
I have partnered up with The Power Room and helped create a video studio complete with green screen. We have been mostly producing music videos, but are now offering business podcasts, web telecasts, live streaming video and infomercials. Very exciting stuff.
Solstice is also handling projects for Artist Ardeth Sobyak, The Chester City GOP, National Realty Corporation, Advanced Cleanout, Executive Health Resources and MyKidsBFit.com. A very busy couple of months to say the least.
Personally, my charitable and volunteer initiatives are in full swing as well. I am on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee for the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, where I also run the Social Media/Marketing Committee and serve on the Executive Search Committee. Our Charity, Tommy's Gifts for Kids is growing nicely, events are in full swing at St George's Episcopal Church in Ardmore, Pa, where I am the Fund Raising Chair and I am coaching The Dodgers Rookie Baseball Team at Drexel Hill Little League.
So, obviously I am busy, but that is no excuse for not keeping in touch. For that I am sorry.
Talk to you again (real) soon. -Pete
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
What I Learned Down the Shore
Hello Everyone - This past weekend at My Mom's House in Avalon Manor, New Jersey, taught me a few great lessons. These lessons were so great that My wife and I both took Monday off to see if there were any other lessons to be learned! Here is what I learned:
1. Not being "Down the Shore" sucks.
2. If I have a laptop, internet access, my Droid phone, a dictation device, access to my cloud-based server and paper & pencil I can work from anywhere.
3. No matter where I am, my clients can access me. (That's a good thing!)
4. With technology as a tool, you can increase your quality of life and even improve your business.
5. Nobody knows me at my Shore Church so I don't get asked to volunteer for anything.
6. Mundane tasks such as cleaning out your e-mails, organizing your contact database, synching devices, etc are all better if you do them while sitting outside under an umbrella on a dock on the bay with a gin & tonic.
7. Recharging your batteries is critical to success. To prove this so far today I have driven home from the Shore, went to a Delco Chamber Board Meeting, visited a retainer client just to touch base and helped him with a challenge, stopped by my Church and said a prayer for those in need, signed a new client (Woo-Hoo), converted an existing client to a retainer client (2x Woo-Hoo!) and developed 2 web pages for a current project. All this by 4PM!
8. You only live once so live well.
There is so much you can learn by taking time to reflect, recharge and relax.
Until next time - Pete
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
My Birthday Blog
Happy Birthday to ME!! Today is the day. I am 45. Odds are I am half way through my life and if you count in 5-10 final years of dementia and incontinence, I probably only have about 30 lucid years left! The thing is, I was supposed to be a millionaire by now. Last time I checked my portfolio, that was not the case. So it's time for my half-time review. What has happened that has kept me from this goal and what can I do to reach it by 50? (Since 50 is the new 40, I will technically beat my goal by 5 years!) So I weighed my life's pros and cons and am definitely happy with my life as the pros outweighed the cons.
Pros:
Wonderful Family, A Son who beat Leukemia, hundreds of loyal friends, a great Church Home, My own Company, which is in it's 8th year, a Family Shore Home, flashes of decent musical ability, and a great charity - Tommy's Gifts for Kids.
Cons:
I need to be in better health if I am going to reach 90! I am not a millionaire. I am not close to being a millionaire.
Is being a millionaire THAT important. No. It is not. But I DO want to be able to provide for my children and wife, pay for the kids' college, buy the home that I will spend the rest of my life in and I want to never need the phrase "overdraft protection" in my life again!
How will I achieve this?
By continuing to give customers a great value and great service.
By being more consistent with maintaining rate integrity and collections.
By consistently reviewing my monthly, quarterly and annual goals.
By keeping my priorities in order.
By just plain continuing to work my ass off.
So Happy Birthday to me and thanks for checking in.
Future Millionaire,
Pete
Pros:
Wonderful Family, A Son who beat Leukemia, hundreds of loyal friends, a great Church Home, My own Company, which is in it's 8th year, a Family Shore Home, flashes of decent musical ability, and a great charity - Tommy's Gifts for Kids.
Cons:
I need to be in better health if I am going to reach 90! I am not a millionaire. I am not close to being a millionaire.
Is being a millionaire THAT important. No. It is not. But I DO want to be able to provide for my children and wife, pay for the kids' college, buy the home that I will spend the rest of my life in and I want to never need the phrase "overdraft protection" in my life again!
How will I achieve this?
By continuing to give customers a great value and great service.
By being more consistent with maintaining rate integrity and collections.
By consistently reviewing my monthly, quarterly and annual goals.
By keeping my priorities in order.
By just plain continuing to work my ass off.
So Happy Birthday to me and thanks for checking in.
Future Millionaire,
Pete
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Summertime!
Summer's here and the time is right for dancin' in the street! The time is also right for preparing for the Fall business surge. Most businesses experience a lag in the Summer and a big bump leading into the year's end. So what can you do now to best prepare yourself for the busy season? Here are a few tips:
1. Update your website. Making frequent changes to your site will help with search engine optimization and keeps your content fresh.
2. Organize your contacts. Prioritize your contact database by category and importance. Make sure to reach out to clients who have used your products or services previously at this time of year and see if they need you again this year. Remove dead contacts and clean out your e-mails!
3. Start a blog! A blog is a great positioning tool and a great way to reach out to potential clients. Linking your blog to FaceBook, Linkedin and twitter will optimize the effectiveness of the blog.
4. Clean out your files, desk and office space. Reducing the clutter in your life will make you a better organized and more efficient professional.
5. RELAX!!! Even if you don't have the time, MAKE the time to relax, recharge and have some fun. You only live once and there is no substitute for the value of spending time with Family and Friends and enjoying some quiet time of reflection.
So enjoy the rest of your Summer and if I can help you with anything at all, please don't hesitate to contact me!
1. Update your website. Making frequent changes to your site will help with search engine optimization and keeps your content fresh.
2. Organize your contacts. Prioritize your contact database by category and importance. Make sure to reach out to clients who have used your products or services previously at this time of year and see if they need you again this year. Remove dead contacts and clean out your e-mails!
3. Start a blog! A blog is a great positioning tool and a great way to reach out to potential clients. Linking your blog to FaceBook, Linkedin and twitter will optimize the effectiveness of the blog.
4. Clean out your files, desk and office space. Reducing the clutter in your life will make you a better organized and more efficient professional.
5. RELAX!!! Even if you don't have the time, MAKE the time to relax, recharge and have some fun. You only live once and there is no substitute for the value of spending time with Family and Friends and enjoying some quiet time of reflection.
So enjoy the rest of your Summer and if I can help you with anything at all, please don't hesitate to contact me!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Bless me Readers!
Bless me readers for I have sinned. It has been 6 months since my last submission!
The good news is that I have been very busy. When you are a one man show, sometimes you can't do anything but the jobs. So that brings me to this blog's topic. The sin that is "deviating from the plan". I had every intention of learning more about Search Engine Optimization and sharing my wisdom. But then I landed a number of great projects and I was juggling tasks like a circus performer!
So how do you do your job but still carve out time for your branding (such as this blog & networking), growth (such as cold-calling & RFP's)and company maintenance (such as bookkeeping, invoicing and collections)?
The answer? Caffeine. Copius amounts of caffeine. Sometimes you have to suck it up and pull an all-nighter. Which I have been doing a lot of lately. I told all my clients I was taking a vacation day and I cleaned house. Literally. My desk is back in order, I made 50 phone calls to past clients looking for new business. (That worked to the tune of about $2300 in business!). I got my collections in order and reviewed my quarter 1 goals. I threw out dead files (into the recycle bin & re-used the file folders). I made changes to my website and I updated my samples page.
Now my next challenge is to grow. To have a studio space and to hire someone. This will be a step back to take a step forward and I can't afford to do it! So how do I make this happen? Tune in next time and see what I have done! Have a great Summer! I hope we speak again before it has ended.
-Pete
The good news is that I have been very busy. When you are a one man show, sometimes you can't do anything but the jobs. So that brings me to this blog's topic. The sin that is "deviating from the plan". I had every intention of learning more about Search Engine Optimization and sharing my wisdom. But then I landed a number of great projects and I was juggling tasks like a circus performer!
So how do you do your job but still carve out time for your branding (such as this blog & networking), growth (such as cold-calling & RFP's)and company maintenance (such as bookkeeping, invoicing and collections)?
The answer? Caffeine. Copius amounts of caffeine. Sometimes you have to suck it up and pull an all-nighter. Which I have been doing a lot of lately. I told all my clients I was taking a vacation day and I cleaned house. Literally. My desk is back in order, I made 50 phone calls to past clients looking for new business. (That worked to the tune of about $2300 in business!). I got my collections in order and reviewed my quarter 1 goals. I threw out dead files (into the recycle bin & re-used the file folders). I made changes to my website and I updated my samples page.
Now my next challenge is to grow. To have a studio space and to hire someone. This will be a step back to take a step forward and I can't afford to do it! So how do I make this happen? Tune in next time and see what I have done! Have a great Summer! I hope we speak again before it has ended.
-Pete
Friday, November 6, 2009
Hey - I'm back from the SEMA show in Vegas where I went to support Riggio Innovations. We had a very successful trip. Here's how we did it. After deciding this was the perfect venue for showcasing the line wrench, we reserved a booth and chose appropriate supplemental marketing purchases. We paid for a banner that hung from the aisle sign for our row. It hung 20 feet up from the floor by wires. We also chose a kiosk ad that was attached to the "You are here" show directory. These purchases drove a ton of people to our booth saying "we just HAD to see this wrench!" We placed a display in the new products showcase and I held a press conference at the convention's media center for roughly 25 journalists and automotive magazine reporters. Probably the most important element was obtaining a list of attendees at the show and contacting them prior to the show with a link to our website with the video from my last post. The result was a staggering 1000+ attendees who want to buy the wrench who gave us their contact info via a lead capturing device we rented for the show. These are critical. More importantly, over 20 leading tool manufacturers CAME TO US to express their interest in manufacturing out line wrench!! We signed 11 non-disclosure agreements and are ready to begin negotiations.
This tremendous success validates the cost of participating in an event like this. It wasn't cheap, about ten grand for flights, accomodations, exhibitor space, supplemental marketing opportunities brochures, flyers displays and booth banners. However in the long run, this will prove to be a very small investment compared to the return. The lesson here is that when considering a marketing vehicle, it's OK to spend a bit as long as you are marketing to the proper market segment. Here's a shot of me and Rich Riggio at SEMA. Take care - next we'll talk about the follow ups and blogs.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Trade Shows
For the Last few weeks, I have been helping a client - Riggio Innovations - prepare for the SEMA Show in Vegas. Riggio has created a new ratcheting, retractable line wrench and we are bringing it to market. The experience has been great and we are seeing success prior to the show. We have identified attendees who it makes sense for us to meet with and have set up appointments. We have jumped onto every tool forum we can and have spread the word. That generated a nice response, which validates the strength of targeted marketing online and non-traditional marketing. We set up a demonstrative website - http://www.riggioinnovations.com - where interested parties can check out a video of the wrench in action.
The lesson here is that trade shows, expos and sampling opportunities work, if the attendees are who you want to meet. simple. Next, make sure you have supporting displays, decor, handouts and literature. Keep design elements simple, clean, eye-catching and consistent. Don't have blue signs and yellow logos and green literature. Consistency develops he brand.
Also - I am mentioning them in my blog! The video is above as well as on you-tube and the link is at the signature of my client's email.
I'll write when I get back from the SEMA show and let you know how it goes.
The lesson here is that trade shows, expos and sampling opportunities work, if the attendees are who you want to meet. simple. Next, make sure you have supporting displays, decor, handouts and literature. Keep design elements simple, clean, eye-catching and consistent. Don't have blue signs and yellow logos and green literature. Consistency develops he brand.
Also - I am mentioning them in my blog! The video is above as well as on you-tube and the link is at the signature of my client's email.
I'll write when I get back from the SEMA show and let you know how it goes.
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