So far, we’ve been discussing marketing strategies and tactics. But even the best marketing is useless if you don’t actually do what you say.

Through supporting hundreds of businesses, here at DemGen, we’ve seen and heard A LOT of horror stories… (It’s scary out there!)

The unfortunate reality is that there are a lot of charlatans – both in business and with contractors.

Chances are you’re recalling your own horror stories right now: Lofty promises that aren’t lived up to; overpriced products or services; egos without justification; bad attitudes; swindlers and scam artists. We’ve all been there at least once!

There are many out there that feel false promises are good marketing, but – the truth always comes to light.

You’re only as good as your most recent work, so be careful to protect your reputation both in the claims you make and the team you surround yourself with.

Our clients often come to us after working with shady contractors that promise the world and don’t deliver. They’re traumatized by the experience and question if we can really do what we say.

If anything, we do even more than we say! We’re a unique bunch, in that we’re entrepreneurial minded and don’t really like to brag. We prefer to let our work speak for itself and truly believe in the businesses we choose to work with.

Often, we find our prospects are in such shock, they find it hard to hand over the reins. Our expert team can only assist as much as we’re allowed to. Micromanaging and penny pinching prevent us from implementing what we know we need to. Our clients’ success is our success.

We’ve been doing this for years. Despite the horror stories we know are true, we know the value our team can add. We have no time for false promises – we’re busy building companies.

Regardless of if you work with us, it’s essential for you to be open and honest with your team to build mutual trust. The more your team understands both you and your business, the more successfully they can implement your vision and provide results.

Being great means under promising and over delivering to keep your clients happy – always and all ways. Marketing will get you the attention, but then you must actually deliver and provide excellent service to keep your customers happy. There is no quick fix – only dedication and hard work.

Your team is just as important as your marketing. They are your ambassadors. It’s essential that they understand and believe just as much as you do, or it will eventually reflect badly on both you and your business.

Avoid horror stories by surrounding yourself with the right team. Ask the right questions to ensure what’s being promised will actually be delivered. Be a fearless leader and demand the best to provide the best.

Ensure your business is truly scalable and the right people are in place before ramping up your marketing strategies to be sure you’ll be able to handle increased activity your efforts bring.

Be a success story, not a horror story!

In honor of Halloween, I leave you with the Ghostbusters theme song. “If you’re all alone, pick up the phone and call…” (We’re the ‘Ghostbusters’ for business.) “Who ya gonna call?” DemGen!


 

Tamara Smith
Director of Marketing Mojo