Retail shops are one of the most common small businesses in America today. To compete with the other boutiques, mom & pop shops, and, yes, even retail chain stores, it is important to appeal visually to your customers. An appealing and motivating storefront window will grab people's attention and attract them to your store. Let's take a closer look.RecognitionTo make a name for your business, you need to be recognized by customers, potential customers, or people who were referred to your business. Without being recognized, who will notice you? You need a few simple things to be recognized. Business Name- Stating the obvious, your business name must be prominently displayed for all to see. Logo- Your logo is what will help people "brand" your image in their brain. More on logo's in a bit. Business Information- Don't go too overboard with using your business information as a part o... [Read Full Article]

Tips from January 27, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Generation Y via print media. Generation Y is unique, as in they are attracted to those ads that are wild, unique, and catchy. Something typical but with a catchy slogan will not grab their attention. The action and focal point needs to be BIG. Gen Yers are more likely to listen to ads that involve people of their age or generation that they can relate to. Try to tie in the sense of "I understand you" when targeting Gen Yers. Forget newspapers for Gen Y. Magazines are the most popular print media that they will connect with, read, or even care about. Magazines tend to have celebrities on the cover and lure Gen Y with fashion, advice, and trends. Advertisements in this medium are likely to be seen.  Gen Yers value their technology and computers. Remember this when printing your ads. If possible, make your ads formatted to be able to work online as... [Read Full Article]