FeaturesNow

Social Media Vocabulary - What You Need to Know

Social media have become a widespread and potent marketing tool over the last few years. Used wisely, readers can use social media to help boost awareness, image and sales. This feature introduces (or reminds) readers of the most important social media techniques and tools. It presents definitions of 50 different social media features and techniques, and offers practical tips readers can use to make each of the 50 techniques work positively for them. The feature can be published "as is," or easily edited for length or reader interest. 2242 words. [Feature 1011]

Go Viral! Market by Buzz

When your readers hear the word "viral," they might cringe. "Viral" sounds sinister. But viral marketing (the term was coined about 15 years ago) is now recognized as one of the most powerful promotional tools in today's high-tech world. Viral marketing is the 21st century's version of old-fashioned word-of-mouth. When it works, viral marketing can bring a message to thousands -- or hundreds of thousands -- of people at little cost. This engaging feature explains what viral marketing is all about, and offers readers tips they can use to make their names and products reach bigger audiences than they might believe possible. 920 words. [Feature 1010]

First Contact

That first transaction with a new customer is all-important. It can cement the new relationship and lead to a lifetime of mutually profitable sales -- if it's managed right. That first transaction might be big or small, in-person or online. It might involve a purchase or it might center around a freebie. This feature explores a wide variety of "first contact" transactions, and offers power-packed tips your readers can use to turn those transactions into lasting customer relationships. 878 words. [Feature 2002]

New Media, New Opportunities

So what exactly is a "vlog?" How can your readers use a podcast to promote their products? How do readers get their businesses on Facebook?

These new media questions can seem bewildering. But when readers answer them right, they can find new markets and new sales.

New Media, New Opportunities brings readers an overview of Web-based promotional tools available right now -- and tips on when and how to use these exciting new opportunities. 946 words. [Feature 0905]

Hit "Send," and Build a Relationship

Sure, your readers use e-mail every day to transact business and exchange information.  But with some easy planning and a bit of creativity, they can turn this ordinary communication tool into a business-building arsenal.  Used wisely, e-mail can help your readers boost sales and deepen customer relationships.  Here's how.  703 words.  [Feature 0710]

What Makes a Great Sales Proposal?

Most of your readers sell products or services and, for many readers, sales proposals are part of their professional lives.  Proposals educate prospective customers, motivate them to buy, and ultimately inspire them to establish and deepen business relationships.  But what makes a great sales proposal?  This feature provides the answer.  Includes three informative sidebars, including a proposal checklist.  1345 words.  [Feature 0707]

Power Words: Sell Anything!

What words strike desire deep in the hearts and minds of other people?  The answer:  power words.  This article offers a variety of "power words" -- highly motivating terms that can pack your ads, brochures, talks and Web content with selling clout.  With each word comes an action-packed illustration of its use.  964 words.  [Feature 0508]

Web Site Magic: Eleven Ways You Can Engage Your Visitors

Your business readers know that great Web content is an increasingly important marketing tool.  But what excites visitors, and spurs them to buy?  Here, readers will learn eleven principles of outstanding Web content.  By following these principles, readers will engage and hold visitors -- and get them to buy.  884 words.  [Feature 0501]

Boost Customer Sales with an Annual Check-Up

Physicians and other professionals use annual check-ups to keep clients and patients coming back.  Whatever their fields, your readers can do the same.  The result:  a steady stream of customers.  This feature explains how.  771 words.  [Feature 0409]

Your Web Site Visitors: Hit or Miss?

When visitors first land at your readers' Web sites, one of only two things can happen:  visitors can stay, or they can leave.  This feature offers a practical summary of things your readers can do to entice visitors to stay.  685 words.  [Feature 0309]