Accentuate the positive

Now I am not from Iowa, actually never been there, but I am inspired to hear about a new campaign being run by the state to remind Iowans (and prospective Iowans) about the great features of living there.  Highlighted in blogs The Lonely Marketer and Drew's Marketing Minute, it turns out that there is a tendency for Iowans to put down their state and apologize for lack of a great singles scene or how their kids are attracted to the larger out-of-state universities.  The brilliance of the new Iowa Life Changing campaign is that it truly celebrates the strengths of Iowa: great for families, community, low crime rate and "balanced quality of living."  (I want that!)

I don't know about you, but I find it too easy to dwell on the "what I want to fix" and forget to focus on being grateful for the wonderful things in my life.  And when I shift that focus to celebrate my strengths, the things I want to change either fade in importance or are easier to fix.    As is true in life, it is true in business.  When you focus your energy on all the things that are wrong (such as: not enough customers, the wrong employees, bills are out of control) this is carried over into everything you do.  It is subtle, but it can be felt by your clients, your employees and even in your marketing communications. 

Yet, by focusing on the fabulous things about your business (such as your personal care for clients, a convenient location, a great training program and support for employees, unique and fun treatments, a tranquil environment)  this positive energy can be felt throughout the business.  (Yes, I am a fan of The Secret.)

What are one or two things you are MOST proud of about the services you provide?  If this is tough question to answer, then ask your customers what they most love about coming to you.  Or make it a team effort with your staff to agree on the top stregths that everyone is excited and enthusasitic about.  Then, celebrate your strengths on a regualar basis -- in your staff meetings, when writing an email to your clients, put notes or posters up in the breakroom, do anything that will remind you and your staff to "accentuate the positive."  And have fun...it is contagious!

Comments

[Drew McLellan]

Thanks for stopping by my blog.

You are exactly right -- all too often marketing efforts focus on the wrong things. Your customers and prospects alike will respond much better to authenticity.

They can feel "phony" a mile away!

Drew