1) Your Company 2.0. What will make your clients crazy with excitement about your company? Can everyone in your company (not just your sales team) communicate your value to a friend, neighbor, or prospect? The home building and remodeling industry is populated by lots of small and mid-size companies, each struggling to maximize profitability and attract customers on their own. Dashboards make it easier to recognize and respond quickly to shifts and trends in company performance. When you see something you know you should be doing, make it a priority. MORE >>

Last fall I was invited to an open house, hosted by a Minneapolis Design-Build company at my neighbor’s house down the block. The event was VERY well attended, and everyone who saw the project was impressed by  the quality of the work. Last week I learned that this same builder is hosting a cooking demonstration at a local showroom. But he had not sent me an invitation. He hasn’t added me to his mailing list – even though I live just three doors down from one of his best projects. Here’s one way to add project neighbors to your database. Step 1. Step 2. Step 3. MORE >>

because it uses the keywords that people search for, instead of your company name. Last week a client emailed us a question about Search Engine Optimization. He was interested in improving his search engine rankings. We talked at length about the basics of SEO – especially optimizing your site using keywords and phrases, and inbound linking. We’re also wrapping up the next issue of our newsletter. This month’s article: Ten Ways to Boost Marketing Results (without spending more money). SEO is one of those things you can learn and do on your own on the cheap. Contact us. MORE >>

And it won’t change very much unless there is a major shift in the environment or company circumstances. While making final preparations for a Business Builders session on Marketing Plans, I went looking for a simple explanation of  “marketing strategy.” ” It’s a concept that gets thrown around — but without a clear definition. marketing strategy is the WAY you will create customers. Basically there are four things you need to keep in mind about marketing strategy. Marketing strategy is shaped by business goals and strategy. Referral strategy). MORE >>

The benefits of being an award-winning company are obvious: 1) Feels good — provides a much-needed morale boost for staff and owners. 3) Bragging rights — winning awards is hard evidence of your company’s prowess that you can use in your marketing. I heard through the grapevine that CoTY entries are down this year. If you can complete a binder or two, the chances of winning are really, really good. Can’t find the time? Suppose it takes 6 hours to complete an entry – that’s about 1/2 hour per day, between now and the end of the month – very doable. MORE >>