The way to grow your fan base to is to do more of the activities your fans like. Often the conundrum starts with trying to figure out what it is that they do like. After all, you want to keep them on your site and keep them engaged, so that they don't notice time passing and are enjoying themselves. The more time they spend with you, the less time they are spending with your competition.

Social media is best used to build relationships. You answer the ideal customer's specific problem or tickle that one person's sense of humor and you'll find that others will enjoy the benefit and come to know you as an expert in that area.

As I walk out of my front door each day, I take a moment to scan the neighborhood. For the longest time, I only saw shades of grey and white as we wait for the snow to melt. On this particular day, when I scanned up and down the street, I noticed to see the beginnings of spring:color!

The reason hype works is because of the feelings that are generated with hype. There's excitement in the spokesperson's voice, enthusiasm and energy. There's the hope that whatever is presented really IS the solution to every problem on the planet.

In today's day and age, obtaining a customer's trust is one of the biggest acquisitions any business can hope to obtain but we often let our marketing fluff get in the way of making a true connection. There is a tried and true method out there for really making a connection.... It is called sampling.

The time you spend building relationships within your professional network pays off better in long-term revenue growth than any other marketing strategy. Instead of thinking of networking events as a chore, think of them as a chance to put more money in your pocket. The old adage, "Work smarter, not harder," certainly applies when it comes to networking.

How much time should you be spending marketing your business? Do you know how much is enough? Richard Branson, owner and founder of the The Virgin Group, an empire of 350 companies that includes Virgin Atlantic airlines, said that he spends about a third of his time on promoting and talking about the businesses he has set up. What does that mean for you?

Many business owners are setting out to complete their business plans to prepare them for the upcoming year and for future success. The planning process is such a critical component in business.

One of the strongest marketing tools you have is your customers so why not use them to help get your message out and help build your business. A strong testimonial will allow you to instantaneously enhance your credibility, differentiate yourself and improve your close rate.

Being able to answer the "What do you do?" question and sum up the unique aspects of their business in a way that excites others to inquire more in a brief and concise manner is often called the elevator pitch for the intended time it takes you to ride an elevator. As long as you understand your audience, what specifically you do for them and in what unique way, you will master the elevator pitch.