Let me start off by apologising for there being such large time span between my last blog and now! I have been extremely busy trying to move on to the next part of my business plan.
I have finally been able to have my samples manufactured and I am currently awaiting for the finished product to be sent to me which I am extremely excited about! I can not wait for you guys to see my garments. And now that I have my samples on the way, I have now organised my focus group which will be attended by 15 women. Mums and boutique owners!
I really am looking forward to getting their feedback on my collection and for me to learn what my customer really wants! This is one of the many keys to success.
Another aspect I have been working on is my marketing strategy for the clothing line. I had no idea about marketing so when I came across a marketing package by Chris Cardell of Cardell Media for a great affordable price, I had to grab the opportunity with both hands!
When watching the 6 hours worth of footage, my eyes were really opened to how important marketing is to a business. I mean, yes you need to have an impeccable product or service but without the right marketing strategy, you might as well be making the products for your friends and family cos they will be the only people who will know about!
Chris talks about knowing your target market and knowing where they are, the places they go to and when they go. Also to understand that the old ways of marketing such as direct marketing is still very effective and not to be disregarded.
New Marketing strategies such as Google Pay Per Click and Email Marketing were talked about in detail. I must admit I was a bit sceptical about Pay Per Click but after watching the Cardell DVD, he has managed to persuade me to at least try it. Start small and monitor my progress and how it effects my business!
There are so many different Marketing avenues ( PR, Joint Ventures, Email, Direct Mail, Referrals, SEO, Advertising) that can be taken and you just have to try the ones that you feel you can afford to lose if they do not work out. And as soon as you realise that any of them are not working, you need to stop doing them immediately!
Another section of the seminar I enjoyed was the Joint Venture presentation. They can really increase your promotion for your product as well as building a rapport with some really great people! I hope to have such great relationships with different boutique owners.
I believe in investing in myself in order to change my mindset and further equip myself for what is about to be bestowed upon me! Reading and learning as much as I possibly can about Sales, Marketing and my product are the steps I intend to take within the next few weeks to be able to then move onto finishing my business plan.
I mean let's face it, Christmas is nearly upon us so I really do not have much time!
