Introducing Green Retailer magazine - and eco-friendly displays

There are so many companies, retailers, manufactuers, etc. getting into the "green" movement. I'll be covering greenwashing in a later post because that's a separate subject, but for those retailers interested in dipping their toes into the eco-friendly movement, even if they aren't "green" retailers, can take a page from a new magazine called Green Retailer.


While this magazine is really geared to assist those retailers who are eco-friendly, there is no reason any retailer, gift or otherwise, would not benefit from reading this magazine. It's well-written, the photographs are great, and you'll get a nugget or two to help your business.


I was lucky enough to be asked to photograph some eco-friendly visual merchandise displays for this inaugural issue - here's the link to see the entire magazine: http://digital.giftshopmag.com/specialtyretail/9/. My photos are on page 42 and you can see a sample of the page on this post.


Supporting and purchasing eco-friendly and fair trade products are one option - but don't forget there are so many other ways you can do your part to help the environment!

Until next time,

-Megy Karydes
Karydes Consulting
http://www.karydesconsulting.com/

Business Cards - an under-used marketing tool

How many times have you attended a wedding, BBQ, or even a business meeting and forgot your business card? I admit it, I've done it several times. All we can do is try to remember! Keep a few in your wallet for those "just in case" situations.

But here's the other thing - how many of us take the time to design a business card that really reflects our business, our brand, and is memorable? If you're like most, you created your card to have the basics - your name, phone numbers, email and mailing address. All important information, yes, but basic as well.

A friend recently scoffed at my thought because most of us take the information from a business card, import it into our electronic databases whether that's a Blackberry or on our computer, and chuck the business card in the circular file cabinet. When I pressed her to think about a card that she remembered, she immediately pulled out a card from her purse from a restaurant. The card had a simple image on the cover of a glass carafe with red wine in it on a table (we're assuming it was red wine because the card was a pretty black and white photograph). The restaurant's contact information was on the back. Why did she keep this particular business card? She said it made her happy to see the picture - what a great marketing piece for that restaurant! A card that a customer kept in her purse and could reference anytime she wanted to smile!

Since summer is slow for some companies, take the time to re-design your business card. Pull out cards you like if you keep cards in a rolodex or pick up cards as you come across them in the next month. Then, take components from ones you like and redesign it. Use a designer or take the pieces to an office supply store near you and they can help you design one, too.

It seems like such a simple piece of your business and yet it can be so powerful when used to its maximum potential.

If your company has a neat business card it would like to share, email it to me and we might post it on our blog!

Until next time,

-Megy Karydes
www.KarydesConsulting.com

Business Meals Prove Important in Business Deals

Eight Tips for a Successful Business Meal

PJ McGuire, president of Modet, Inc. (http://www.modetinc.com/), a Chicago-based etiquette training company specializing in modern etiquette and protocal services is convinced that business meals can make or break a deal. As more of us are doing business over a cup of coffee or dinner, I asked to her share some tips on how executives can make their next business meal a successful one.

“Remember, the purpose of a client meal is to build a strong, lasting relationship…not to eat,” says PJ. “Many business executives fail to make a positive impression due to basic etiquette faux pas."

Here are her eight tips to ensure your next business lunch or dinner is a success:
1. Confirm with your client or business associate and the restaurant 24 hours before the meal.
2. Arrive early and pay the bill in advance by providing the maître d' with your credit card.
3. Greet your client with a firm handshake and a smile.
4. Give your client the best seat, facing out into the room.
5. Mind your manners – allow your client to order first.
6. Remember your bread plate is on the left, drinks are on the right. A quick way to remember? Use the “BMW” approach. Bread, then your Meal, then Water (or your drink). PJ illustrates this approach in the picture to the right (PJ is standing; Jessica, seated, is learning to the BMW method.)
7. Discuss business after the main course is cleared.
8. Follow-up with a handwritten thank you note within 24 hours.

I love #6 - it's so easy to remember and for those of us who are constantly trying to figure out which bread plate or drink is ours, this works!

For more information about PJ or Modet's services, visit http://www.modetinc.com/.

Until next time...

-Megy Karydes

http://www.karydesconsulting.com/

Chicago Home Improvement magazine editorial request

Hi there! As many of you know, I'm working with Chicago Home Improvement magazine on several editorial pieces.

I'm currently working on the October 2008 issue so if you have any new home improvement-related news in or around Chicago that would be of interest to our readers, please let me know!

The feature piece for this issue is on Home Exteriors (think wood or vinyl siding, other options, etc) and welcome home improvement experts with experience in exterior work.

Thanks!

-Megy

Things to Consider When Writing a Press Release

I often work with businesses or organizations that do not have formal training or experience in media outreach. I'm delighted that they consider media outreach as part of their overall business strategy.

However, reaching out to the media isn't about telling them all the great things you're doing and expecting them to cover it. The media, like all of us, like to learn new things or share something new and interesting with their audience.

One of the easiest ways (and not always the best - but that's for another post) is to draft and send out a press release. When writing a press release there are a few things to keep in mind:

1) What is my story? You need a story. Having a business - any business - is not a story. Creating jobs for a low-income neighborhood through an innovative program might be a story.
2) The media wants to be a resource for their readers, listeners and viewers. Think about that reader, listener and viewer – what would she want to know? Why should she care about your story? Answering these questions will help you formulate the story angle for the media.
3) Can I include a compelling quote? If so, write one! The more “quotable,” the better! If you use a quote, make sure to include the person’s title.
4) Which categories of media outlets are you targeting with the release?
5) Think about your follow-up. You must call or email to pitch your story, too. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and a member of the media will love your release and call you for more information. But, usually, you have to call and pitch it as well. And then continue to follow-up!

Another Tip: Keep your release to one page if at all possible. You’ll have the best chance of it getting read when it’s simple and concise. If the reporter wants to learn more, she’ll have your contact information on the top and will know how to contact you.

Happy Press Release Writing!