Exit strategy improves performance

In today's frenetic business climate it takes something special to succeed. It takes that something extra beyond the norm for success to happen. We cannot rely any longer on the received wisdom of today.

The traditional methods for increasing performance such as honing the creative edge, better utilisation of the talent pool, or streamlining the business processes do work to some degree. So do some of the more in-vogue ideas like enhancing culture through becoming more interdependent, enhancing client life time value through relationship marketing, and “user chooser” flexible reward schemes. They have all demonstrated their success over the years.

However, our insight into the media sector suggest that many owner managers exhibit those characteristics of the rolling stones Bob Dylan was singing about when he asks “How does it feel, to be on your own, no direction home, a complete unknown”. They have focused all their attention on doing the work of the business but lack the skills required to maximise the performance of their agency and therefore do not fully develop the capital value.

However, recent independent research in the marcoms agency sector suggests that owner managers in the marcoms sector can significantly enhance their performance by developing:

1. Belief in your own capabilities
2. An exit strategy

If you would like to know more on how an exit strategy can help you to build your agency, please call me on 0117 9047874 or email me at Exit.strategy@credence-uk.com

ABC of Growth - C = Corroboration.

High growth companies have evidence to corroborate their brand and expertise.
They have easily recognised trophy clients. They advertise their successes and promote their expertise through the skilful use of testimonials, reviews, articles and PR.

Prospective clients are looking for ways to reduce the risk of using new suppliers. One way they do this is by looking for evidence of satisfied clients. A list of names is not enough. What they want to see are recognisable names and realistic assessments of what you did for them and the benefit they derived from it.

Do you have corroborative evidence that demonstrates that you are as good as you say you are? If not, then start thinking about asking your clients for a testimonial or writing up your intervention in the form of a case study.

Finally, use every piece of corroborative evidence as many times as you can. Insert it on your website, your blog, your newsletter and so on

If you need any more information - please give me a call on 07956 532963 or email on blogresponse@credence-uk.com

ABC of Growth - B = Brand

High Growth companies recognise the value of their brand. they cherish it and nurture it. they know that it takes times to build a strong brand but only a few minutes to destroy it. It has lasting value that ensures a legacy to future employees and clients. Everything they do adds value to their brand and their reputation.

It is not enough to have a logo, or good stationery. A brand is so much more than that. Wally Olins, a noted thinker in this area has this to say "In a world that is bewildering in terms of competitive clamour, in which rational choice has become almost impossible, brands represent clarity, reassurance, consistency, status, membership. Brands represent IDENTITY".

Does your brand represent your identity. If they see your brand will they recognise you for what you are, what you stand for and what you can deliver?

Call me on 0117 9047874 if you would like to discuss how to maximise the value of your brand.

ABC of Growth - A = Activities

The clearest sign that a business is well led and managed is its ability to deliver consistent, profitable growth.

After years of working with small businesses I have worked out what they need to do to grow.

And it is as simple as ABC!

The ABC of growth – what high growth businesses do well.

High growth companies are hives of activity. They are “doing” orientated. They get it right. They do the right things with the right people to the right customers at the right price in the right place at the right time.

Are you a doing or a thinking company?

How many proposals have you sent out, how many new prospects have you seen, how many networking events have you attended?

The list of activities that will build your business goes on and on.

If in doubt, do the things that you like doing - but do them well and frequently.

The great companies are doing orientated - now go and do like wise