Ad exec offers marketing tips to rising entrepreneurs
HOUSTON, Texas – Many Americans are taking it upon themselves to help jump start the economy by starting businesses and creating new jobs. But many entrepreneurs make the same marketing missteps that can cost them time, money and success.

“Big or small, we see many businesses make the same common mistakes that can limit the success of a company,” said Bryant Price, President and CEO of Houston-based Agama Advertising. “So, I’d like to offer some advice to help these businesses grow and prosper so hopefully someday they’ll become our customers.”

Price offered the following simple points to ponder, based on his 27 years of experience in the advertising industry.

Image is Everything – Remember that the perception of your business is often judged by things that have nothing to do with your goods or services. Investing in quality business cards, a brochure, embroidered shirts and a few promotional items are inexpensive ways to look professional and give a greater appearance of legitimacy. This is vital for startups.

Know Your Client – Clearly define who your ideal client is. How big of a purchase will they make? What do they do for a living? Where do they live? What do they want? What do they value? What do they read? Where do they go online? The answer to these questions will help you more effectively target your marketing efforts.

Features vs. Benefits – Customers make buying decisions on the benefits a product or service provides, not a list of features. Communicate how your product makes customers’ lives easier, better, more efficient or more enjoyable.

Be Consistent – Try to always keep consistent colors, design styles, logo placements and typography in all your communications. Such similarity will help potential customers remember your brand and connect all the different points of contact you have with them.

One Strategy, Many Tactics – Once you develop your strategy, don’t bet the farm on any one tactic to promote a business. Use several coordinated tactics, like websites, Facebook and traditional and nontraditional advertising. Track your results through feedback and concentrate on what methods you find work best. Don’t be afraid to experiment in the beginning to find the right marketing mix.

Know When to Call in the Professionals – At some point, it is very easy for an entrepreneur to spend too much time and energy on marketing and promotions to the point that it takes away from their ability to run the business. The US economy is services based because it allows people to focus on what they do best. Entrepreneurs should always keep an eye out for the point where their best option is to hire professionals who spend all their time thinking about marketing and promotions. That will allow the entrepreneur to focus on what they do best and leave the specialists to meditate on the marketing needs of the firm.

“Great marketing isn’t rocket science, but it does take time and planning,” Price said. “If you focus on covering your basics, you can get the word out about your firm, customers into your business, and differentiate yourself from your competition early on.”

For more information and additional marketing tips, visit www.AgamaAdvertising.com or call 832-426-3810.