You do what with that?

I know some of you may wonder what that is. It’s a QR code or "quick response" code. I talked about a blog or so back. It's my own code. I could put it on a mail, sign, web signature, or anywhere I wanted someone to scan it and get to my blog or web page. Some of you already know apparently pretty well what it is. 14 million of us scanned one in June. According to a recent comScore survey, we seem to like it. In the store, from a magazine, or even a product package. That little bugger gets people to something instantly. After all, isn’t that what it’s all about? The survey showed most people scanned the code from magazine or newspaper. Next, was a retail store. If you have a retail store or do some newspaper or magazine, shouldn't’t you look into that? I mean, what were they looking for? They were looking to connect further, find out more, and possibly follow that brand. Make it easy for them. Getting unique insights into your audience will help you market to that target and give them what they are asking for. This mobile campaign can ultimately boost page views, followers and sales. The large part of that survey audience was 18-34, male and made a 100K a year or more. Want that kind of customer? Then speak to them on what they are using to communicate. The process is simple and if used correctly can help you and your business speak to some potential clients you may not be speaking to now. Ready to get started? It all starts with a page, some good content and a strategy. If you don't have one, seek out a professional consultant. They will guide you through the process and get you going. If your marketing partner has not offered you this or has not already implemented it in your current strategy, it may be time to look for someone else.

How many people have a "smartphone?"

80 million. Yeah, 80 million, and that number is growing every day. Is your business there when they look for what you do? I mean, can someone find you from their smart phone?Maybe now is a good time to find out. Now, what are they doing with all those phones that are internet ready? Well, according to the new comScore numbers trend , they are texting, surfing, playing and searching. This is the time you should explore a mobile presence if you have a business with a website. What’s interesting is the use of mobile browsers, social media and downloaded apps. Its why some people get a smart phone. Its convient, fun, interesting and sometimes a necessity. Its a time saver, money saver and life saver all in one. You can deny it all you want, but if you dont have a strategy with your business, and you want to be there when people look, you have to have get started now.
You see, in this three month average period ending in July, 234 million Americans ages 13 and older used mobile devices. Now before you say anything about the 13 year olds, my daughter has more cash on hand right now than I do, and she isn't afraid to use it. While some of it was for fun, a lot of it is looking for something to spend money on.(This is where you come in)If you dont have a way for them to call you, find you, or see what you do...they pick someone else. So,if it's not you, in the words of Dr. Phil .."How does that make you....feel?" There is good news though. It's not too late. Linking to your social media, maps, phone numbers, reviews, specials, all are what they are looking for. So don't make them look to hard. 70% of that number up there was texting. Did you know that you could have been part of that? SMS or short message service is a great way to reach that crowd because they like it and use it everyday. So start speaking their language. Get in touch with a company that can give you both. Its affordable, easy to use, and a necessity today to stay ahead of or at least even with your competition. Are your thumbs ready? Because it looks like theirs are.

Can I find YOUR business on my phone?

Yeah, I know.., you just GOT your website done. Then you got a Facebook page and even did some updates. That's great. Now, here comes something else you need. So don't take this lightly.
25% of search on Google is done from mobile phones. Think about that. Know much search that is? If someone was using a web enabled mobile phone and went to your website or page, would they have to paw the page left and right, wait for it to load and look like they were trying to put together a puzzle? Not good. Guess what, they are already gone. You can't afford that. You need to make your site mobile friendly TODAY!
71% of smartphone users search because of an ad they’ve seen either online or offline; 82% of smartphone users notice mobile ads, 74% of smartphone shoppers make a purchase as a result of using their smartphones to help with shopping, and 88% of those who look for local information on their smartphones take action within a day. Need more facts or do you get where I goin here?
Now, there are lots of companies that can do it for you, so select one that knows what they are doing. Your after a mobile site that has the same look and feel as your site, is an effortless forward from your original site, and just the basics. It's who you are, what you do and how to contact you. The rest should be saved for the original site.
Know what a QR code is? No, it's not a playstation "get more ammo" code. It means quick response code and it's what looks like a smashed space invader on a checkerboard. You have seen them on magazines, direct mail, business cards and even some in store displays.
It's a direct link to your mobile site so it's easy for users to get there. When used right is a seamless way to get them where you what them to go. It's scanned with their phone through an application they can download and mobile friendly. The company you get to " mobilize" you should do that for you too. Pricing should be about a dollar a day. So don't sweat it. It's where search is going,so get going with it and
GET MOBILIZED!

What are they saying about your business?

You have a “situation”.

And no it's not the guy from Jersey Shore, it worse if that's possible. Someone is upset with you, your company, or your product or service. Maybe they tell a few people, or even call and speak to someone . Maybe they don’t. Maybe what they do is tell a few thousand people their displeasure….online. What’s worse, you don’t know it so you can’t try to fix it. Your reputation is now in jeopardy.

This happens millions of times a day. Customers are now finding it easier to read and do more reviews about you online. They are becoming more available and consulted before a buying decision is made. Now it is even being done with the flick of their phones. Does it mean anything? Well, you tell me.

Research shows people are more likely to do business with companies that have reviews. 70% say they consult product reviews or consumer ratings before they make a purchase. Now if they are good or bad and how the user deems them is another story. Would you still use a product or service if the reviews are bad? How about if there was no reviews at all? Which is worse?

If any of these things matter to you and your business, maybe you should look into Reputation Management. The idea is to have a place where you can go and actually see what your customers are saying about you from many different places around the web. You can address those negative reviews as soon as they happen. Stopping potential negative customer sentiment. You can also see what you are doing right, get great insight and see that your making progress as a business.This not only gives you a clue that the girl answering the phone is more worried about texting her friends instead of helping customers, but it shows your potential customers you care. It also does something else. Sharing why and where are you are mentioned when people are talking about your particular business category or even your competition. Like social media can do, and yes, it checks there too. Maybe you’re not being mentioned at all, and that’s not good either. It’s an alarm, a tool, and a time and money saver. So, whats that worth to you?The best news is there are some great services out there and they are very comprehensive and economical. These tools are probably some of the fastest growing business utilities out there because there is no erase button on the web. Finding a potential problem and at least show you’re trying to fix it can make the difference between sale or fail. Can you risk that today?