The Personal Touch

In this digital age, when emailing, texting, tweeting and posting on a friend's Facebook wall are the primary ways of communicating for most people, a personal touch can go a long way. This especially holds true for companies that offer a high ticket product or service. When you're making a sales call, actually make a phone call. Even better, set up an in-person meeting or take your prospect out for lunch. That doesn't mean you shouldn't leverage more technological means of communication; a periodic email to check in with your current customers or to follow up on a recent meeting is always a good idea, and if you can connect with them via social media, go for it. But it's important not to forget the power of actual human contact.

Why Controversy Isn't A Bad Thing

When most people think of "controversy", they have a negative connotation of the word. Controversial topics are taboo, and controversy is thought of as something to be avoided. However, people are also attracted to controversy. It makes ordinary things more interesting, and more importantly for businesses, it garners attention and gains exposure. Just like the saying goes, "There is no such thing as bad press" (up to a point, of course).

How to Utilize Permission Marketing

I recently finished Seth Godin's book "Permission Marketing". Written in the pre-social media days, the book was way ahead of its time. In short, it's all about obtaining increasing levels of permission from existing and prospective customers in order to more effectively build a relationship with them. For example, a low level permission may be a Facebook like or a Twitter follow, while a slightly higher level could be providing an email address or other contact information, with another level being the completion of a survey on an individual's interests or preferences. As you learn more about these consumers and earn higher levels of permission, you can then target them with sales pitches or ads that are more relevant, anticipated and personal. 

The Allure of Exclusivity

Everyone wants to be on the inside. They want to be part of the inner circle, a member of the in-group. When companies create an environment of exclusivity, they are appealing to this innate desire for inclusion.

Taking A 'Startup' Approach To Marketing

"Startup" and "entrepreneur" have recently become buzzwords in the lexicon of American culture. Most people associate these terms with the latest Internet and mobile technology companies. They think of people like Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Jack Dorsey of Twitter (and more recently Square), Dennis Crowley of Foursquare, etc. However, these terms really describe a particular approach to business, not any specific industry type. Any retail store, service provider, or small business can fit the bill if they're in the right mindset.

What happens in Vegas shouldn't stay in Vegas - How to make the most of trade shows

I've been to Las Vegas for two different trade shows in the past month. Although the city has a notorious reputation for debauchery, it's also an unparalleled hub for business. If you're going to any trade show, whether in Vegas or at your local VFW hall, there are a few things to consider to ensure a successful experience.

How To Make An Impact With Your Marketing

At Harbortouch, it is our M.O. to shake up the industry on a fairly regular basis. We have been widely acknowledged for our ground-breaking initiatives since 2004, when the company forever changed the credit card processing industry with the launch of the first free credit card terminal program.