FREE GUIDE OFFERS YEAR-END MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR BUSINESS OWNERS Booklet Provides Planning Tips for 2006

New York – As business owners enter the final weeks of the year, the fourth quarter is an ideal time to market and promote their companies. Tracey Picon Communications has published Year-end Marketing Strategies for Business Owners, a free booklet which provides proven techniques designed to help business owners boost their profits, build their reputation and promote their businesses to ensure they stay top of mind among customers – without spending a fortune. A copy of the guide is available at no cost by calling 866-898-7168 or e-mailing info@traceypicon.com.

According to Tracey Picon Communications (TPC), a firm specializing in public relations and marketing for small-to-mid size businesses, smart business owners committed to a strong finish to the year should consider applying these strategies:

Leverage business and social opportunities during the holiday season. The holidays present excellent opportunities to network with existing and potential clients, vendors, trade association members and other business owners. Industry functions, receptions and community events are ideal occasions to “catch up” with business associates. Discover what’s going on among different industries and at various companies and who the “movers and shakers” are. Who knows? You may even meet people who can direct valuable leads your way or make potential client introductions.

Consider planning your own holiday event. Invite current customers, potential clients, colleagues and employees. It can be a highly effective way to announce new products or services you may be offering in 2006 or just wish everyone a “Happy New Year”. The good cheer generated by the event can enhance your company’s image and build professional relationships.

Reward customer and employee loyalty. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, it’s important to thank your clients for their business, and your employees for their dedication and service.
In a competitive marketplace, where consumers are constantly solicited for their business, reward those who have chosen to stay with your company. Send them “holiday greetings” cards or a gift basket. Be sure to include a handwritten message that will leave a favorable impression. You may also take them to lunch or dinner as a token of your appreciation. Your clients need to know that you value their business.

Plan a staff luncheon or event for your employees. Despite the fact that money is tight and raises are not what they used to be, employees will notice your thoughtfulness and recognition of their hard work.

Take advantage of favorable industry and consumer trends. Develop seasonal promotions to help your company attract more customers. For example, retail and travel-related businesses should capitalize on the busy holiday season and increased consumer shopping and traveling that occurs between Thanksgiving and the New Year.

Evaluate “what’s working” and “what’s not”. The fourth quarter is the time to review the goals and strategies your company set in the beginning of the year. Examine your entire operation to determine if your business is own track to meet its financial projections, sales goals, production targets and market share. If your “numbers” are not where they should be, assess why and decide what you’re going to do about it.


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