DISQUS

Dan Blank: Publishing, Innovation & the Web: The Barriers to Reaching Your Audience & Customers

  • Karen · 7 months ago
    Being that I spend much of my time sitting in front of my computer with my short legs, I designed a more comfortable and completely portable footrest or ottoman that's adjustable, too.

    Good design is critical today -- in my case I needed comfort and support, too, to get through the routine of the day. Being comfortable gives me a bit more energy and endurance to sort through it all.

    All the tips Dan offers are right on target -- especially his last point. In my case, I love hearing how the Redema makes others' days easier.

    How have you eased someone's day today?
  • DanBlank · 7 months ago
    Hi Karen - thanks! And you're right, a good ottoman is a highly underrated part of a productive work day. Enjoy yours...
  • Billy Hass · 7 months ago
    this is exactly why I have gone back to doing business the old fashioned way -- handwritten notes in the mail. Using email to sell is useless.
  • RenaR · 7 months ago
    This year was the first year that I got holiday greetings emails instead of cards. I have to say that, as a customer, I found it very impersonal. It has always made an impression on me when I see a hand signed card with a pretty picture that can pick me up.

    On the other hand, I hate getting a ton of literature in the mail about why I need to buy x or y. I may browse through them, but they get just as overwhelming as emails.

    Why do the cards work on me? Because someone thought of me as a person. They are sending the card to create a relationship. If you want to stick out of the crowd, let the customer know that you are a person. That's the key.
  • DanBlank · 7 months ago
    Great point. I think that I am usually willing to invest time with a business proposition if it is obvious that someone is taking real time and effort to reach out in a meaningful way.

    Thanks!
    -Dan
  • DanBlank · 7 months ago
    Great point Billy - thanks!
  • onlinedesign · 7 months ago
    Understanding technology is vital because we are not the only ones leveraging it. We have to stay up to date and encourage our clients to do the same so as not to get left behind. We have entered a new era. We ARE "The Jetsons".
  • DanBlank · 7 months ago
    I seem to remember the Jetson's being VERY dysfunctional, with robots breaking down all the time, and that darn tooth-brush never seemed to work correctly! But your right. The only thing I would add is that technology is just a tool, much like a pencil. What you do with it that is authentic and helpful is the difference between someone writing an elegant letter, and someone who is just scribbling.
    Thanks!
  • onlinedesign · 7 months ago
    Well spoken indeed. (I am really glad I found your blog. It's quite inspiring).