Being too clever can make value a tough sell

When I put together ShopTheHood.com I decided to include quite a few features that I thought were pretty nice perks, especially given the pricing I put on it. Perhaps they were. The problem was, I'm an elevator speech kind of salesperson. I tend to do business directly with other small business owners who I know are also very busy and pressed for time. As a result, I've tried to devise marketing products that I can explain in a couple of minutes. This one didn't fit the bill. When I did try to explain it, it just sounded cumbersome and probably a bit confusing. Someone used to doing longer presentations may have made it work, but that's just not my wheelhouse.

So, I went back and tweaked the deal. (here's the new Advertiser Info page) The concept remains the same. The terms are simplified and the pricing even came down a bit. The important thing is, it's a value I can explain in a manner that makes sense for me and for the prospective customer.

Lesson learned? Make sure your value proposition is tailored, not only to your customers needs, but to your strengths as well.

Win a Holiday Gift Bag

Enter to win one of 5 Holiday Gift Bags at Easy Street Designs.
Featuring:
Kettlecorn from
Colorado Gourmet Kettlecorn
Homemade jam from
Izzie's Sweet Treats
Free 16 oz Latte from
Chick's Espresso
and lots more goodies.

Must register in person at Easy Street Designs, 109 Kiva Rd, Colorado Springs, CO
One entry per person per visit please.
Limit of one winner per household.
Drawing will be after close of business on December 22, 2011.

Christmas Basket Give-Aways, Stuff Wanted

Here at Easy Street Designs, we used to give away one large prize as part of a holiday drawing. With the down economy, we decided a couple of years ago that 5 smaller prizes would bring some good cheer to 5 times as many families, so we put together Christmas Baskets full of toys and games and coloring books and such. They've been a big hit.

This year we want to add a new twist - free goodies from our business customers (can be for kids or adults). Naturally, businesses that donate to the prize baskets will appear on the posters and in the basket itself. You may also add your business card, flyer or brochure to the prize.

Prize should be stand alone, no strings attached. It can be a gift certificate, but no coupons, no free consultations or inspections, no buy one/get ones or X% offs (this promo is aimed at generating goodwill, not necessarily an immediate sale).

If you'd like to participate, call 719-390-5080 or email easystreetorders@yahoo.com

Newsletter ads available through Nov 30th

It's short notice, I know, but I have some advertising space available on the Holiday issue of the Stratmoor Hills Newsletter from now until Wed (must deliver newsletter by Dec 1).

The newsletter comes out twice a year and is hand delivered to 540 homes in the Stratmoor Hills Neighborhood Association (north B St, south of Cheyenne Meadows Rd). Complimentary copies are also furnished to the Fire Dept, The Utilities and Water Depts and the Sherrifs Office and County Commissioners.

Cost for a black and white ad is $35 for business card size, $55 for a 1/4 page, $100 for a 1/2 page or $175 for a full page.

Space and time are limited. Call 719-390-5080 or email EasyStreetOrders@Yahoo.com to take advantage today.

Magnetic Business Card Calendar Special

Now through November 30, 2011

Magnetic Business Card 2012 Calendars, just 35 cents each. NO MINIMUM

Your business card adheres to the front, magnet on back.

Instant Promotional

Order today by calling 719-390-5080 or email EasyStreetOrders@yahoo.com

- cover choices may be limited on quantities under 300
- flat rate shipping $7 to the Continental U.S.

Local Advertising Opportunity, Security/Widefield

Newsletter ad opportunity, Security - Copperfield HOA newsletter, 425 delivered to residents (off Crawford), full color business card size ad - $35. Call or email Easy Street Designs today. Spots are limited.

Promotional Sun Shade and LED keychain light sale

Now through August 22, save big on car sun shades and LED keylights from Norwood.

To take advantage, call or email Easy Street Designs today!

719-390-5080, easystreetorders@yahoo.com

Click on the flyer image for more information.