I know, I know....2009 stunk. Sales were lagging. Customer loyalty flagged and you're tired. You cut expenses down to the bone last year but you're hoping that 2010 will be different. So you are actually thinking marketing.
Great first step.
But my guess is, you're going to aim your marketing spend in the wrong direction. Don't point your initial tactics at prospects or customers. Your first target is closer to home.
Do you want to talk to an audience that has a vested interest in your company and is motivated to see that you're successful?
Look no further than your own employees.
It is one of the most powerful and most overlooked marketing truths out there. Employees that feel appreciated will do the same for your clients. Think of it this way. For every dollar you spend on an employee, you get double your money. You make that employee feel special and appreciated and you fire them up to take even better care of your customers.
Marketing to your employees is a blend of gratitude and creating an insider's mentality. Let them be part of the dream...and thank them for sharing it with you.
Here are some ideas to get you going:
Are you thinking it's crazy to spend your marketing efforts on an internal audience? When you hear stories about Apple, Starbucks or Zappos–aren't you really hearing stories about their employees who went out of their way to create a remarkable customer experience?
Do you really think that was just a lucky accident?
