http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog Tips, trends, strategies and sources for succeeding in the gift basket business Tue, 26 Aug 2008 23:33:52 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en One of the best pieces of advice I give new gift basket retailers is start where you are. This applies not just to getting your first customers. It also applies to keeping up with trends, replenishing inventory, getting marketing ideas and maintaining your enthusiasm.The more you can use vendors, suppliers and ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/08/26/what-are-you-missing/ A few  months ago I began asking readers to give me feedback about this newsletter in a survey that appears near the bottom of every issue. Here are some of their comments from the survey followed by my responses. Reader Comment--I'm finding too many links to businesses that have "ready made" ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/08/19/you-asked-for-it/ August 12, 2008--Issue 208 If your business is feeling the effects of the economic downturn, you are not alone. In a few years when the economy uprights itself and returns to good times, some businesses will still be alive. Will your business be one of them?  That all  depends on what ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/08/12/keep-your-business-alive/ Issue 198 Successful fisherman have many techniques that they often share with buddies. As I listen to their enthusiastic accounts  I realize that going after corporate clients is much like fishing. 1. Decide what type of fish you want to catch. Most gift basket designers have found that the corporate client is best. That ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/06/03/fishing-for-clients-use-the-right-bait/ ============= February 26, 2008 Issue 185 ============= Are you new to this newsletter?  Then let me welcome you.  I've prepared a personal introduction to this newsletter and what it offers. Find it here. ========================== If you don't already have a website you've surely fantasized about owning one. If you do have a website, are you cashing in ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/02/26/are-you-cashing-in-online/ =============  February 19, 2008 Issue 184 =============== You are receiving this because you signed up for it at http://www.giftbasketbusinessworld.com If you wish to unsubscribe you may do so at  the bottom of this page. ========================== Are you new to this newsletter?  Then let me welcome you.  I've prepared a personal introduction to this newsletter and what it offers. Find it here.  Gift ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/02/19/its-all-about-the-benjamins-if-you-plan-to-stay-in-business/ ========================= February 12, 2008--Issue 183 ========================== When Apple revealed its newest laptop, their commercial became another example of marketing genius. Watch it now and see if you can spot why it has appeal. Did you figure out that this ad has appeal because of its simplicity, clever use of song that helps convey its ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/02/13/what-can-we-learn-from-apple-now/ On an episode of the popular TV show "Crossing Jordan," a mysterious toxin causes the illness of the medical examiners and even the death of one. The toxin is traced back to a food item that came from a gift basket provided by one of the sales reps.   This episode may ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/01/15/cover-your-assets-insure-your-gift-basket-business/ In modern times the celebration of Valentine's Day has grown far beyond flowers, candy, cards and jewelry. Although Valentine expressions are still mainly personal, they are often exchanged in business settings as well.   If you expect to enjoy profits from Valentine's Day sales you must start your marketing immediately. Send postcards ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/01/08/embrace-valentine-profits/ It's been a wonderful year for me and I'm grateful for your support.     Here are some ways to ensure that your new year is "happy." Send New Year's greetings to your customers.  Be sure to remind them to order Valentine's gift baskets early. Review the goals you set at the beginning of last ... http://giftbasketonlinenewsletter.com/blog/2008/01/02/make-this-your-best-year-yet/