Small Business: Sales & marketing
Even in a recession, savvy retailers can boost their business.
The Flower Lady, Suwanee, Ga.
How does a florist sell more in this economy? We changed our business to designing weddings and events only, as the everyday flowers are not selling. We had to throw out too much product at the end of the week — flowers are perishable!
Sales don't just wander in your front door. Here's how to cultivate up a steady stream of shoppers.
Sanjay, Huntington, N.Y.
We have a retail shop of clothing and jewelry. I sit all day waiting for the customers. How can I utilize that time on my computer, and do something that will generate extra cash for my business?
A guide to breaking big in Apple's very crowded market.
Keeven Kuate Konga, Tempe
What steps do I take in order to make a big jump in the iPhone application industry? I have found an app designer. I know the basics, but is there any other information other than what's given on Apple's Web site?
A research study of the quintessential business dilemma has turned up some surprising answers.
Max Smith, Miami
I run a small company, and the recession is making me re-examine my advertising budget. I ran across claims that publicity may be much more cost-effective than advertising, but found no formal studies on it. I always thought PR was too expensive for small businesses, but in doing my research I posted my project on AllPublicists and got many low-cost offers from publicists. One firm, for example, doesn't charge anything unless they deliver results. However, most companies still put much more reliance on advertising than on PR. Is it because pay-for-results-only publicity such a new option, or am I missing something? Are there any studies on the subject?
How to stand out in a crowded field without spending loads of money on advertising.
Jenny, Deer Park, N.Y.
I own a small beauty shop in a mid-sized town on Long Island, New York. The problem for me is the competition: In the past five years, three more beauty shops opened around the five-mile area, and my business started to sink two years ago. How do I stand out from a crowded field without spending tons of money on advertising?
Have a hot idea for an educational software product? Here's how successful entrepreneurs have cracked the market.
Ernest L. Leisner, Buffalo
I have created a word game that I would like to transform into an educational video game. I believe it can go a long way to help improve the dismal illiteracy rate in our schools. I have many aspects of a proposal in place and I’d like to find a government grant to help. I have tried searching the Internet, but there are scams all over the place.
Our experts try to jump-start a struggling auto services venture.
Eddie Freeman II, Lube N Go Michigan!, Mich.
I started a mobile oil change business. We change your vehicle's oil at your location, work or home, for $24.95. I am having trouble launching the business – the phone is just not ringing, and I am having no luck with fleet businesses. I've tried word-of-mouth marketing and handing out fliers. I started the business with my own money when gas was $4 a gallon to save customers money and time. Everyone thinks the idea is great, but no one is using it. I quit my job as a dealership service manager to start this business. What advice do you have to get it going?
Some clients aren't worth the headaches. Advance vetting and precautions can spare you the pain.
Chris Walker, Phoenix
I started a concierge service on a tight budget. I am not looking to conquer the world in a day. I would like to attract the "right" customer and grow the business within my means. What would be the best methods to find that "right" customer?
Offering a product too cheaply can devalue it for customers. Here's how to zoom in on the right price point.
Emil G., Santa Monica
Is making a service free more counterproductive then selling the same service at a low cost? We recently put together a highly defined service in which we analyze the conversion rates of Web sites and make strategic suggestions – which we were already doing, it just wasn't separated out into its own service like it is now. Our plan was to begin offering it for free initially while we worked out the kinks, but since dropping the price to zero, it seems we've stripped the value in our clients' eyes. I expected the opposite. Any suggestions?
A good distributor can make or break your product line. Here's how to find the right one.
Deziree Williams, Sugar Free Baby, Los Angeles
I have a children's eco-friendly clothing line. We are taking it slow because we are branding our line and are in some ways picky about who we sell to. I have recently been approached by a distributor, but I'm not sure if this is the best way to launch into the market. Any advice?
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Detroit's churches are plowing millions into redeveloping local housing and businesses. More -
Winepod attracted a wait list of eager buyers and millions from investors. Then came the recession. More -
As other major banks withdrew, Wells Fargo stepped up its small business lending. More -
Designer Chuck Comeau set up his manufacturing in Plainville -- 240 miles away from a major airport. More -
As staffs shrink, business owners are taking on support duties they haven't had to handle in years. More
