Design Method
Top Tip – Databases
Most of what can make your business successful is normally incredibly simple to implement – good staff, good tools, hard work and good client relationships – oh, and a good contact list, aka a Database!
Sometimes these things can be overlooked by many. I like to think of myself as a pretty sensible chap, head screwed on and relatively bright – I am a father of 2 after all, and my kiddies seem ok under my ‘fathership’!
So I was a little put out when my own ignorance was pointed out to me, by none other than my partner in crime, better half, codirector of Pelling Marketing by Design and marketing guru Rachel!
‘Where is your database?’ she quite rightly asked me when we discussed our marketing plan on my first day as owner of Pelling way back in 2008… I can’t put down in writing my response…
needless to say I was disappointed in myself for this oversight.
Databases are the cornerstone for any good marketing plan, after all – you could have the best idea / promotion in the world, but if you have no one to send it too, what’s the point?
Keeping track of all your enquiries, leads and recommendations is essential – I keep note the old-fashioned way with a pen and paper at the side of my desk and encourage my staff to do the same. I then input my CRM (Client Relationship Manager) which in turn is linked up to email system.
We then track communications, whom we spoke too and when, and what we have sent and the response / engagement levels of certain communications.
Often, rather than sending generic emails out to a blanket base, I actually take the time to write personal emails to contacts new and old.
This is obviously a tough ask if but I have always allowed the time, and find they are received much better, and indeed engage with more than a run of the mill message.
This is no guaranteed way to gain business, but it is surely better than nothing. if you use the data efficiently and sensibly it is bound to pay dividends for your business.
So, if you need any advice on marketing, or any other creative input for your business, please do not hesitate to get in touch.