Conversation: Seizing Control of My Marketing Plan

A conversation with Sasha, owner of an online giftware store providing quality, aesthetically appealing barware

“My marketing plan seemed to have a life of its own. It was always careening out of control and I was changing directions mid task.”

Hi Sasha, thanks for the opportunity to have this chat. Let me first ask a few questions to put all this in perspective. 

Tell me, what do you consider your greatest achievement?

“That would have to be transitioning successfully to the US as an adult, from another country. The language, the customs, everything different. And the opportunity! The opportunity has made all the difference.” 

And what do you most value in your business?

“I value the relationships with my customers. Our products are for the fun times in life and customers come to my space with energy and enthusiasm. it is affirming to work with them, even for just a small order. But of course, big orders are best!

 Could you please give a few sentences about your business and then tell us when you started it?

“I sell premium barware, handmade, and gift-able. I started the company in 2015. It provides  premium artisan bar ware and home décor, with a focus on aesthetics, craftsmanship and gift-giving potential.” 

And where are you with your marketing now, just generally.

“After the workshop I was reminded to stay structured and to plan ahead for marketing efforts rather than a reactional effort. Another outcome was the importance of creating and managing a marketing budget.”

Are you pleased with your current marketing program?

“Yes. It’s in its beginning stages of being organized and so far, there is progress.”

 Would you do things differently if you were just starting out? And if yes, how would

you do things differently.

“Well, I would’ve spent a lot more time doing marketing research and marketing promotions.”

What are your next goals for you and your business and how will your marketing reflect

this?

“My next goals are to expand the business through different distribution channels and planning on partnering with companies.”

If you could change one thing about yourself or your company, what would it be?

“I would change the limitations I have in my mind for the growth of my business”

Side note: The other interesting discovery that Sasha made in the workshop was the idea of partnering with other like-minded or complementary firms. Owning a small business can be isolating. Having a side-kick can help both parties; emotionally, financially and just for fun. 

Val has some afterthoughts: – entrepreneurs wear a lot of hats. There’s a cliché! But think of it. Every function supervised by a vice president in a major corporation is fulfilled by the owner in a small business. Product development, HR, Marketing, Operations, to name a few. The temptation to seize on the problem of the moment is tempting. With a plan, there can be results almost in spite of the inevitable chaos. Need some insight? Let’s connect. Marketing101Essentials@gmail.com