Friday, 18 May 2012
Category >> MyBlog
Apr 26

OC Social Media Summit - Join Us and Learn From Orange County's Social Media Leaders

Tanya Posted by: Tanya in MyBlog | Comment (0)

 

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I am very excited to share that The Refinery at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest will host O.C.'s very first Orange County Social Media Summit on Friday, May 18, 2012. Over 300 people have RSVP'd to date and will draw in many more folks that are interested in learning, connecting and sharing with other social media advocates.

 

This event will be like no other event in Orange County. Social media pioneers will share business successes, personal growth, reports of increased web traffic, and scores of other benefits, from simply being present, and being themselves in social media.

 

The brains behind this event are the lovely @RochelleVeturis and @HaleyVeturis -- social media's sweethearts. A big heart-filled thank you for inviting me to participate as a panelist at the wonderful event. You can view all keynotes and panelists below. A shout out from the keynotes are also below for your viewing pleasure.

 

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[Click to view more panelists.]

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Apr 02

6 Points to Follow When Branding a New or Existing Business

Tanya Posted by: Tanya in MyBlog | Comment (0)
BrandingAre you working on a new idea for a business or considering a rebrand for your current business? There are the standard "must-do" items people will tell you to check off your list; a business plan, a federal tax ID number, business licenses and permits, etc.

 

When it comes to marketing and branding your business it's critical to define what your company will represent and how to tell its story. Exceptional stories can energize an audience; don't miss your chance to WOW potential customers. 

 

Do you know what makes you and your product or service unique? If you can't easily share your story, no one will be able to connect with you. Once people clearly understand what you do and how you can help them, they are more likely to buy from you.

 

Here are are some steps to help you get started in shaping your brand:

 

1) Define Goals, Values, Purpose - What makes your company unique? Tell the public how you stand apart from other companies that offer similar services. This is the time for self promotion and to express the value your products and services can offer. It's important to communicate how you are different, otherwise potential customers will base your services or product on price and not the value you bring. This information will carry over to your brand identity; It influences design elements (logo and marketing materials) and brand story.

 

2) Trademark Your Business Name - Did you think up a snazzy name for your business? Better consult with a business attorney and make sure it's available for your product or services. No matter the size of your budget, it could be a huge money-saving act to review this in the beginning. You wouldn't want to spend money on business cards, marketing materials and a website, if you can't use the business name you selected -- it would be money down the drain. 

 

3) Creating a Marketing Kit - This will differentiate you from competitors. You will also be able to use this content on your website and marketing materials. Need to get your product or service in front of a potential customer? WOW them with a kit that shares your story, stories from happy customers and other necessary items in your kit. Nine times out of 10, your competitors will not have a marketing kit. My marketing colleague, Kelly Hernandez, lists full details of a successful kit.

 

4) Create Branded Marketing Materials - Once you have clearly defined goals, you have a "green light" on your business name and your marketing kit is ready to WOW, focus on creating branded marketing materials. Not everyone needs a tri-fold or a flyer -- arrange for a consultation with a marketing and/or graphic design professional to help you determine what will work for your business. Here are a few questions that should be covered in your consultation, "Who is your audience", "Describe your direct competition", "What are the feelings you want your clients to feel when they think of your company?", "How would you describe your company/business to someone who has no knowledge of your existence?" 
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Oct 05

Using LinkedIn to Promote Your Business

Tanya Posted by: Tanya in MyBlog | Comment (0)
Tagged in: Promote , marketing , linkedin , business , branding

linkedinSocial networking has become overwhelmingly more influential both in and out of the business world. Though it’s relatively easy to interact with people about personal topics, social media has become a powerful business tool. The most specifically business-geared outlet is LinkedIn. As stated in a recent Mashable article, “Whether you’re a job seeker, consultant, entrepreneur or happily employed, LinkedIn can be an incredible asset for your career. You can connect to over 43 million professionals in over 200 countries around the world.” It would almost be wasteful for businesses not to take advantage of LinkedIn and its ability to connect infinite amounts of people to your brand.

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Aug 30

Orange County: Engage or Die with Brian Solis

Tanya Posted by: Tanya in MyBlog | Comment (0)

brianSolisLast Thursday, Orange County was fortunate to welcome Brian Solis, one of the most prominent thought leaders and published authors in new media. Organized by Bryan Elliott of LinkedOC, the event was held at SEED People’s Market in Costa Mesa and welcomed 200 people.

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