Latest Articles
- 10 Tips for Creating a Data Goldmine
I have been working with many clients who have their information in a database but are unable to get the information they want or know where to find it. Usually the culprit is a series of issues that come together to create the perfect storm of inefficiency. The tips below will help you to prevent this storm and maximize the information in your database to increase productivity and profits.
- How to Make More Money in 2012 with Data Driven Decisions
I have mentioned in many of my articles about metrics. Things we use to measure success and how far you are from reaching your goals. Data is much more than that – it is a valuable tool to make solid business decisions. It also helps you to save as well as make money. Below are some of the metrics you can use to help grow your bottom line in 2012.
- Why Effective Reporting Makes You Money
Many organizations today rely heavily on their technology to get things done. This is something that will become increasingly important as we move into the future. Those who have learned to leverage the information they have can effectively market, close sales, produce their products or services quicker and save money on maintaining those customers. One way to achieve this is through effective reporting.
- Top 10 Reasons Why You Need a Bookkeeping System
As technology progresses it is becoming increasingly important for companies and non-profits to track their information. In a previous article I discussed how to maximize your customer relationship management software. This month I am going to talk about your bookkeeping system. These two areas tend to be neglected by a new business or existing businesses using an effective system that is too difficult to maintain. Either scenario will cost you money, time and sales. Below are the top 10 reasons why you should use a bookkeeping system.
- 7 Ways to Keep Your Database from Becoming a Digital Clothes Hanger
As part of the new reality, organizations are doing more with less. This translates into reduced staff, resources and in some cases office space. This has created the necessity to examine how organizations can use technology to be more efficient. One way is to purchase Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. Doing a thorough research process and testing prior to buying your system. Once purchased, I encourage you to take the necessary steps to avoid it becoming a digital clothes hanger – aka an unused treadmill. Here are some tips on how to avoid this dilemma for yourself.
Trade Show Prep & Post Planning
As I am doing my printing, emails and preparation for the Orange County Chamber of Commerce EXPO it is more apparent than ever that you need to be organized to get the most out of your trade show investment. The key to having a successful trade show is preparation and post planning.
Some of the items you need to consider from an organizing standpoint are the following:
PRE-SHOW
• What is the goal for having your booth at the tradeshow?
• What is your marketing plan to promote attendance?
• What is your sales pitch and strategy for getting people to come to your booth?
• How are you going to capture the data for future contact about product information?
• What booth is the best location for your business?
• What printed materials are you going to distribute before and follow up after?
• How much lead time does the printer need to have them to you on time?
• What promotional products are you going to purchase?
• What is your raffle prize going to be?
• What staff or assistants are you having work the booth with you?
• What additional equipment do you need for this and future shows?
• Do you need to rent any special equipment?
POST-SHOW
• Block out 1 to 2 days after the show to follow up with prospects.
• How are you going to follow up with your prospects?
• Do you need to hire a temp for processing work generated from attending the show?
• Make sure to have enough supplies to implement your follow up plan.
• How are you going to use the captured prospect information for future use beyond show follow up?
• Do a post mortem to see if the show was effective. This would include what sales and relationships were generated in respect to your costs.
• Do we do this tradeshow next year?
Talk to seasoned veterans of tradeshows who can fill in the gaps or give you advice on issues you did not even know existed. Find someone you trust and bounce your ideas off of that person to see if they would visit your booth. Tradeshows are a big investment and need to be chosen wisely and properly planned.
If you have any questions please feel free to email me at cmc@crollorganizing.com.