Did you achieve your most successful marketing year ever?

As 2006 comes to a close, it's time to look back over your marketing plan and budget to evaluate what worked this past year, what didn’t work, and what can be done in the future to maximize the return on your marketing dollar.

Take time to ask some important questions about what happened in the past year.

  • Who saw the message?
  • What image was projected?
  • Was the marketing budget used to its best advantage?
  • Were all goals met?

Your marketing budget is a critical part of its growth, and there’s a viable marketing plan for your business no matter how much money is available. The key is to budget wisely and make sound decisions, thinking of marketing as an investment.

Invest in the Future

One of the most important things to remember when budgeting for a marketing plan is that it’s an investment. The majority of the cost for any marketing plan is spent up-front, which can be daunting. However, the effects are long-lasting and spread out over the life of the marketing campaign. Here are four important steps to follow as you build your 2007 marketing plan

  • Know your target audience and market to them.
  • Create and use a consistent campaign.
  • Be clear and concise with information and offers.
  • Stand out with quality design and copy.

It’s also important to evaluate after the campaign has had time to accomplish the goals that have been set. Set a realistic timeline to follow and take stock when it’s feasible. Decide whether your marketing is meeting the needs of your company and adjust accordingly.

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