Today’s competitive inter-connected marketplace is saturated with marketing messages. Research suggests that multiple ad exposures are required over a period of time to reach just half of the buying audience. Regular brand exposure is also needed to increase brand awareness and loyalty. The more you market your business, the greater the chances of growing your business.

Consumers have increasingly become more proactive, do their own research, and will seek out your products or services. Most sales are initiated by the customer. If they don’t know you exist, how are they going to find you? Pretty good reason to ensure your online presence is strong.

The belief that great customer service or an amazing product will be enough to grow your business is extinct. Research clearly shows that proactive marketing yields results. Offer a great product or service, provide exceptional customer service, and spread the word to people who likely have a need for your product or service.

Can I handle more business? You might be saying, of course I can! But can you handle more business with the same exceptional service you are currently providing? You run the risk of damaging your good reputation if you cannot provide the service levels that helped you develop your good reputation in the first place. It’s always best to grow your business at a pace you can manage. This means aligning your marketing efforts with these realities.

The key to effective marketing communications is to focus on the benefits that will resonate best with your target audience. Too many details about your products and services can be overwhelming to potential customers. Keep it simple.

The most common mistake businesses make in their marketing efforts is expecting people to buy before they are ready. A key part of growing your business will be to get better at learning why people buy your product or service, when they buy it, and aligning your marketing efforts with that knowledge.