Before embarking on a marketing strategy you must spend time considering your realistic target market and the best way to attract their attention. Marketing campaigns are never one off - these must be spaced throughout the year to continuously attract new sales.

Look at these recent enquiries to show how Designerhelp can help you maximise your customer awareness and retention.

Question:
I have been offered sponsored space at a trade exhibition for the first time and need to know whether I should add to my collection of 12 styles or just promote these core styles.

Answer:
Trade exhibitions have many hidden costs, one of them being the cost of producing extra samples. The best advice is to visit and inspect the exhibition prior to exhibiting. If this is not possible, ask the organisers / sponsors or friends if they have any photos of previous stands. If they offer you a 10 square metre stand at least you will know what to expect. Photos of stands look very different to the floor plan that you will be given initially. Make the decision regarding number of samples once you know the amount of space allocated to you.

Our confidential advice service will help you to maximise your exhibition potential.

Question:
I am being bombarded with stuff about marketing on the Internet, should I or shouldn't I get involved?

Answer:
I need more information about your business and product before I could suggest anything.
We have learnt over the past 10 years that the Internet is more effective for promoting information about your product and service rather than selling the product itself. If you have a niche market product with set measurements (bespoke, outsize, petite, special use) you may be able to sell your product over the Net but it is very risky. We have learnt that customers want to touch the product, try it on, see how it drapes etc, etc. This is difficult to do when the customer is buying from an electronic image on a screen. The problem of returns coming back from individual customers will always be a nightmare. It may be better to talk about styles and images rather than showing them. If you are supplying retailers, feature them on a stockists list detailing where your product can be seen and purchased.

Our confidential advice service will help you make the right decision about electronic marketing.

Question:
When I launched my new collection I photographed it and produced a very expensive brochure, which I mailed out to my target customers. That was 3 months ago and apart from the odd request for a press pack, I have had no other response. I don't have any more money for marketing, any suggestions?

Answer:
All marketing and promotion activity must be spread throughout the year and budgeted for accordingly. It is never a good idea to "put all your eggs in one basket" especially regarding marketing.
Did you research the right target market? Did you follow up your brochure with a phone call? Was an "expensive" brochure the only option you had? Have you tried the direct approach? Walk into an independent retailer, arranging an appointment to show your collection? It is a low cost solution. Look at all marketing activities, just because it is expensive does not mean it is appropriate, or that it will be successful.
The essence of a good business is having low overhead. You cannot afford to waste funds so consider spending small amounts often until you crack the market.

Our confidential advice service will help you to decide on an appropriate marketing strategy.