• Sam

    Great post, Melanie. Marketing has such a stigma attached to it and yet it is so important. I think many people think marketing is just for bigger companies and automatically think of leaflets, TV ads and expense. It’s so not true though, as you rightly point out. Marketing is for everyone, whether it’s promoting your company or your own personal brand – and it can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. All it really needs to cost is a bit of time but what you get back in return could be priceless.

    • Well stated, Sam!

      Small business owners oftentimes confuse marketing with advertising and then they become very intimidated by it. Marketing really is not an overwhelming activity and it can be tons of fun!

      I like what you said about the priceless return you can get from your efforts.

      Thank you for knocking on my door and now I’m intrigued to go and read your “scary” post. 🙂

      Melanie

  • Boy oh boy! Haven’t we all used these excuses? Unfortunately, you are right. There are many more! LOL Let’s just get over them and get out there and market ourselves!!

    • I’m with you on that thought, Martha! We need to just get ourselves out there and share our talents with others! It’s not difficult at all. As a matter of fact, I think you’ll agree that marketing is fun.

      You go girl!
      Melanie

  • Thanks so much for this article Melanie. I am stuck in a bit of a marketing rut for my little business. Your points really spoke to me, and I’m now motivated to get going and actually start marketing myself properly. I’m starting with a free report for brides. Wish me luck!

    • That’s the spirit, Jessica!

      And you’re starting out the right way by offering your target audience something of value that will give them the chance to see what you’re all about. Every communication after they download your free report will help to strengthen your relationship with them. You can do it!!

      Wishing you the very best of success and all the joys in life!

      I’m here if you ever need some pointers or a listening ear,
      Melanie

  • Melanie, you’ve really hit on the top “stops” business owners have regarding marketing. And if they believe them, nothing will happen in their business. You did a good job of refuting each one in a reasonable and believable way. Love the Shoestring Marketing Kit!

    And thank you for the plug on my upcoming program – Savvy Article Marketing Success. Looking forward to playing with lots of people who want to move their businesses forward through the written word. And having the articles written is just the beginning!

    • Thanks, Lis! These may be some of the top “stops”, but, sadly, the list goes on.

      Lots of good stuff in the Shoestring Marketing Kit! Jessica Swanson is one of my mentors and she’s a really good egg. Enjoy!

      Your article marketing success weekend deserves a plug. I can already imagine the numbers of online marketers who are going to find their authentic voice and (maybe at long last!) create a business that flourishes! You shine!

      Write On!
      Melanie

  • Excellent article, Melanie. I may ‘borrow’ some of your content for my new ebook I’m writing ! Chapter 3 is on sales so it would tie right in.
    Take care. Have an awesome day.
    Joyce

    • Joyce!! Are you kidding? You don’t even have to ask. 🙂 I’d be honored to have my content in your e-book. I’m glad you liked my post and found some value in it for your target audience.

      Have a terrific Tuesday!

      Much love,
      Melanie