The keys to successful marketing have more in common with the popular color-coated candies than most people realize.

Jumpstart your personal marketing plan by focusing on the M&Ms:

1. Message

Consider what message you want to convey about your business. What makes you unique in your marketplace?

• Is it your quality of service or product?
• Is it your delivery of those services or products?
• Is it your level of customer service?
• It is your hours of operation?

Once you pinpoint your uniqueness, condense it into one short slogan, and promote it on all your advertising materials.

2. Method

Decide which advertising method(s) are realistic for your business.

M&Ms come in a variety of colors. So, too, there are many colorful avenues to market your business. Determine what method you will use for the first contact, second contact and so forth.

Marketing is a process, and your plan should detail each step you intend to take to achieve your goal.

3. Market

The most exciting marketing method is useless if it does not reach your targeted audience.

Focus your efforts on the top prospects you want to market to. Also consider those who have a sphere of referrals to promote your services.

Master these three key areas and you’ll discover that your marketing efforts will reap rewards.

Josiah Williams is the Solutions Manager for Notation Printing and Marketing Group (www.NotationGroup.com). He helps businesses and individuals promote themselves more effectively. His focus is on developing creative ideas that generate positive results in overcoming marketing challenges.

For information on how Notation can help you with your marketing, give Josiah a call at 360.802.5750.