Do you value marketing?...

Having read some negative comments about marketing and marketeers recently (not on here) I wondered what small business owners thoughts on the value of marketing to their business is?

There seems to be a general perception amongst many that marketing is some sort of necesary evil but the benefits are hard to measure and you do it and hope for the best!

Interested to hear what people here think about marketing and marketeers?

Thomas

Re : Do you value marketing?

Marketing is essential: you can't get business without marketing. Even telling your family and them then deciding to become your first client is marketing - the act of telling them!!!

Sasha

Re : Do you value marketing?

Thanks Sasha

I'm always surprised by the lack of interest many small businesses seem to have - no other responses yet to this post perhaps proves the point

Thomas

Re : Do you value marketing?

It seems to be seen as a necessary evil by a lot of small businesses. They know they have to do it and so throw money into marketing almost in a knee jerk fashion....
we use our own service to monitor our marketing feedback by giving each campaign its own unique number so we know exactly who's called and where from even if they dont speak to someone or leave a message!

At the end of the day its not enough to be an expert in what you do and expect business to come to you!

Re : Do you value marketing?

I agree with Mike, it is a necessary evil for most businesses. Viewing it a positive light and setting realistic targets is a big help.

Tim