Comments for Carvill Creative Marketing blog

Comment on The Twit(ch)Hikers Guide to the Twitteralaxy – Part 2 by admin

admin — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 15:25:23 +0000

Hi Julia
A simple way to find the keywords people are using to find your site is via Google Analytics. Once you’ve got your keywords then a good place to verify traffic and search levels is using Google’s traffic estimator. It’s not perfect, but good enough to give you an idea of search levels around your keywords.

Comment on The Twit(ch)Hikers Guide to the Twitteralaxy – Part 2 by Julia Skinner

Julia Skinner — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:36:32 +0000

Part 2 as brilliant as part 1! Can you suggest a good way to analyse key words please?

Comment on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone! by Caroline20

Caroline20 — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 01:30:38 +0000

GREAT story! Start-ups are tough. Going through this whole thing right now. I'm pretty sure a bald spot is begging to be formed on top of my head! Strategic Marketing Agency

Comment on Creating Social Media Guidelines for your Business by Carvill Creative Marketing blog » The Twit(ch)Hikers Guide to the Twitteralaxy – Part 2

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:22:56 +0000

[...] promised in Part 1 of the TwitHikers Guide to the Twitteralaxy – here’s part two. Another 5 Must Know Twitter Tips [...]

Comment on The Twit(ch)hikers Guide to the Twitteralaxy – Part 1 by Naomi Johnson

Naomi Johnson — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:07:31 +0000

Excellent advice – I too find that business people usually don’t “get” Twitter until they’ve had a little gentle guidance :
Looking forward to part 2!

Comment on Twitter News and a request to the Twitter Gods by torrey smith

torrey smith — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:17:10 +0000

Great work on creating such great informational content! I am impressed by your work and your views. I agree with a lot of your thoughts and hope to read more.

Comment on 5 facts that will urge you to stay or get involved with Social Media by Check Registry

Check Registry — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:45:59 +0000

Getting your point across through writing isn’t easy, but you’ve done it. I am very intrigued with the points you make and how you worded your material. Thank you for an interesting, well-written quality article.

Comment on Twitter Stats that will 100% get you tweeting by Jonathan Fagan

Jonathan Fagan — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:51:52 +0000

Hi, interesting statistics. Just wondering where they were sourced from?

Comment on Twitter Stats that will 100% get you tweeting by admin

admin — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:22:30 +0000

Hi Naomi, thank you for the response – good stats that speak for themselves!

Comment on Twitter Stats that will 100% get you tweeting by Naomi Johnson

Naomi Johnson — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:42:01 +0000

Thanks for this – plenty of great statistics to quote to anyone doubting the amazing power of Twitter! Am bookmarking your post.

Comment on 5 more very important social media tips by Brittany at Sprout Social

Brittany at Sprout Social — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:19:43 +0000

Great tips, Vikki! I think a lot of businesses don’t realize how searching for keywords can really help them find potential new customers. For example, if you’re a pizza restaurant, you can find people tweeting about craving pizza or mentioning in their bio that they’re obsessed with pizza, then suggest they stop by your shop. It’s a great way to get noticed and show customers that you’re listening!

Comment on 5 more very important social media tips by Twitted by SilverLaneMedia

Twitted by SilverLaneMedia — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 18:19:20 +0000

[...] This post was Twitted by SilverLaneMedia [...]

Comment on Google+ and Me by Chris G

Chris G — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:33:44 +0000

At this rate Google+ may outmaneuver Facebook and Twitter. The surprising this is that, not so long ago i vouched for google in every way – but now – with all the control that they have come to acquire i definitely have a bad feeling of how things might be if Facebook and Twitter were to be removed from the social media equation.

Comment on Usability testing. No lab, just good old fashioned eyes and ears! by Carvill On Marketing blog » When did you last check your website’s performance? 5 Critical Checks

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 11:39:49 +0000

[...] And those that are really savvy will have undertaken some usability testing (even very rudimentary testing using good old fashioned eyes and ears is better than nothing) with people totally unfamiliar with the site. (Sadly, the testing element [...]

Comment on What’s in a photo? Can you judge a book by its cover… by Carvill On Marketing blog » How I am using Twitter – by a relatively experienced Twitterer…

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 13:40:49 +0000

[...] marketing/whats-in-a-photo-can-you-judge-a-book-by-its-cover [...]

Comment on Blogging the Seth Godin way… by Blogging The Seth Godin Way… | Freelance and Blogger Jobs World

Blogging The Seth Godin Way… | Freelance and Blogger Jobs World — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:14:26 +0000

[...] post originally appeared on Carvill On Marketing blog and has been reposted with [...]

Comment on Practical Email Marketing Tactics by Practical Email Marketing Tactics | Email Marketing to Schools

Practical Email Marketing Tactics | Email Marketing to Schools — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 22:17:02 +0000

[...] post originally appeared on Carvill On Marketing blog and has been reposted with [...]

Comment on Tracking your brand and keywords in the ‘social media sphere’ by Carvill On Marketing blog » Cutting through the noise on Twitter – and capturing key conversations

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 05:54:58 +0000

[...] our blog post ‘Tweeters are you Tracking your Keywords’ – we suggested some of the keywords you can be ‘tracking’ – and since that time we also [...]

Comment on Facebook statistics that will convert you for life by Carvill On Marketing blog » 5 facts that will urge you to stay or get involved with Social Media

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:27:51 +0000

[...] Facebook statistics that will convert you for life [...]

Comment on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand? by Carvill On Marketing blog » In the world of social media – don’t underestimate the power of your profile picture

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:40:36 +0000

[...] related blog posts -2012 Brand – graffiti to engage younger market or not? , Is your ringtone part of your personal brand? , What’s in a photo? Can you judge a book by its [...]

Comment on 2012 brand – graffiti to engage younger market or not? by Carvill On Marketing blog » In the world of social media – don’t underestimate the power of your profile picture

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:07:48 +0000

[...] related blog posts -2012 Brand – graffiti to engage younger market or not? , Is your ringtone part of your personal brand? , What’s in a photo? Can you judge a book by [...]

Comment on Facebook For Business by Carvill On Marketing blog » Plug in the Facebook ‘like’ button

Carvill On Marketing blog » Plug in the Facebook ‘like’ button — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:55:52 +0000

[...] Facebook For Business [...]

Comment on In the world of social media – don’t underestimate the power of your profile picture by Carvill On Marketing blog » Plug in the Facebook ‘like’ button

Carvill On Marketing blog » Plug in the Facebook ‘like’ button — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:54:43 +0000

[...] In the world of social media – don’t underestimate the power of your profile picture [...]

Comment on What is #rfr – why and how should we be using it? by Carvill On Marketing blog » Twitter News and a request to the Twitter Gods

Carvill On Marketing blog » Twitter News and a request to the Twitter Gods — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:46:23 +0000

[...] What is #rfr – why and how should we be using it? [...]

Comment on Plug in the Facebook ‘like’ button by Carvill On Marketing blog » Facebook statistics that will convert you for life

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:42:02 +0000

[...] Plug in the Facebook ‘like’ button [...]

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by Carvill On Marketing blog » Blogging – a few fast tips and a definition to clear things up

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:37:59 +0000

[...] Businesslynda peggs on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone!Eva on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced bloggerAmanda Riuz on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone!Michelle Carvill [...]

Comment on Twitter Stats and Trivia by Carvill On Marketing blog » What is #rfr – why and how should we be using it?

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:34:31 +0000

[...] Twitter Stats and Trivia [...]

Comment on Blogging – a few fast tips and a definition to clear things up by Vikki

Vikki — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:30:57 +0000

Hi Julia

Good to see you are enjoying the posts

In regards to a sign off – this is the one I use to sign off all my blog posts

Vikki Mills is Social Media and Marketing Executive at Carvill Creative – the online visibility experts. A digital marketing and design agency based in Maidenhead, Berkshire. The agency covers all aspects of online visibility – covering social media marketing and social media training, user focused website planning and conversion focused website design.

For marketing and social media advice – view the Carvill Creative Blog

You can just enter your name and Company name like we do and make sure you include a couple of links back to your webpage or Twitter etc

We offer blog training/management for your business. Take a look at our blog services at http://ow.ly/5bV16

Best wishes – Carvill Creative team

Comment on Blogging – a few fast tips and a definition to clear things up by Michelle

Michelle — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 07:54:27 +0000

Glad you enjoy the posts Julia – be sure to view our Carvill Creative You Tube Channel too – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-_n2QmNsOQ as we’re going to be regularly uploading tips and advice ‘live’ too. Best wishes Michelle and the Carvill Creative marketing team…

Comment on Blogging – a few fast tips and a definition to clear things up by Julia Skinner

Julia Skinner — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 07:24:27 +0000

I love these posts – so helpful!
Can you tell me how to create one of those signature sign offs please?

Comment on Facebook For Business by admin

admin — Wed, 25 May 2011 09:10:28 +0000

We received the following query in response to our Facebook for Business blog post, we thought we’d share our answer to help any others out there having this problem -

I saw you on Tweeter and I’m located in Houston,USA. I’m a Realtor, and I am trying to add a business page. I have a page facebook.com/rwman. I want to change the name to facebook.com/……. I have 36 likes on the rwman page so I thought facebook would let me change it. When I go to setting, it says I can change the name one time. When I put in the ………. name, it says it is available. But then a pop up box comes up that says Loading. And it never gets any farther than that. It can be “Loading” for an hour. But nothing. Could you possibly help? I would so appreciate it!
Bob Manning
Tweeter/agentbobman

our response -

Hi Bob

In order to secure your Facebook URL follow this link – http://www.facebook.com/username/.

You are right in saying that because you have 36 likes you are entitled to secure your name, Facebook states that you only need 25 likes in order to change your URL so that shouldn’t be causing the problem.

I just tested it out for you as facebook.com/……. and that seemed to work fine for me, it may be that you were using Facebook at a busy time (usually late afternoon to evening). My advice would be to give it a go in the morning and see if it loads. My other suggestion would be to try changing the name in a different browser, so visit http://www.facebook.com/username in Google Chrome or Firefox (something different to the one you regualarly use) and you may find that works.

Comment on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone! by lynda peggs

lynda peggs — Tue, 10 May 2011 15:42:25 +0000

Very interesting, I think that I am absolutey one those “…I know businesses that say they are ‘doing’ social media – but really, all they are doing is ‘tweeting’ sporadically and aimlessly and have put out a Facebook page that gets little or no attention..” and will have to address the situation.

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by Eva

Eva — Mon, 09 May 2011 21:20:28 +0000

Thank you for these great tips. I am just about to start my own blog, and your article gives me some really useful pointers. I saved in my my favourites:-)

Comment on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone! by Amanda Riuz

Amanda Riuz — Mon, 09 May 2011 10:48:54 +0000

Great article Michelle.

Comment on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone! by Michelle Carvill

Michelle Carvill — Fri, 06 May 2011 11:49:07 +0000

Hi Naomi – Thanks for the comments. You’ll see that I cite MySMB in this post – and my concern is that if ‘anyone’ sets themselves up as a social media expert without understand the fabric of a business and strategic implementation of these important platforms – then some businesses and brands may be heading for a marketing disaster. I’m sure that you’ll appreciate the viewpoint – that social marketing should be integrated with all other forms of marketing – whilst the platforms are relatively simple to utilise – it’s knowing what to do with them for the best results and intention.

Comment on Social Media Marketing – Take it seriously or leave it alone! by Naomi Johnson

Naomi Johnson — Wed, 04 May 2011 13:55:57 +0000

Very helpful and informative – as a new MySMB “graduate” I’m doing as much additional reading/research as I can to ensure that I offer the best possible service to my clients. Thanks for your article!

Comment on Twitter Stats and Trivia by Julia Skinner

Julia Skinner — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:07:54 +0000

Really interesting! Is there an optimum time for tweeting URLs do you happen to know?

Comment on Twitter Stats and Trivia by Carvill On Marketing blog » Creating a personalised Twitter background

Carvill On Marketing blog » Creating a personalised Twitter background — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 09:23:28 +0000

[...] Twitter Stats and Trivia [...]

Comment on Social Media Planning – a step by step approach by Media Agency

Media Agency — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:00:10 +0000

I completely agree, marketing professionals need to understand that social media is just not creating accounts on social networks or tweeting a couple of days. It requires proper media planning and a step by step approach

Comment on 5 Social Media Myths…well and truly Busted by Marc Sokol

Marc Sokol — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 13:34:52 +0000

Myth # 2 really resonates with me. Best advice I got was to use one or two forms of social media well and don’t worry about the rest. I find Linked In provides a great way to manage my network, access to enough information and groups to stimulate thinking, and a way to test ideas when I choose to. The volume of irrelevant information on Twitter and Facebook can be just too time consuming for me -which also goes to your Myth #1.

I think the key is for each of us to figure out how to make social media work for our own needs and stop looking at it as if it were a rainbow with a pot of gold at some distant end.

Comment on 5 Social Media Myths…well and truly Busted by Sion Whellens

Sion Whellens — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 19:48:37 +0000

Like No.1, particularly! I’m on a learning curve myself and it’s a good job I enjoy writing, because using social media well and intelligently is indeed a time hungry pursuit. Other social media myths that need busting? How about the one that says you need at least 500-1,000 followers or friends before Twitter and Facebook start to give you any traction? I find them very useful for staying in ‘light touch’ contact with a select band of new and old clients, as well as current prospects. In the same vein, would appreciate your comments on my blog about choosing a print supplier – http://www.calverts.coop/blog/?p=1910
PS Howard Graham’s team must be doing some really intensive SEO stuff – I Googled my name and the top three results were from Business Made Simple. Amazing!

Comment on Are you promoting your good points? Testimonials, videos, reviews…it all counts! by Malcolm Evans

Malcolm Evans — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:37:36 +0000

I think it’s very easy to just stick up a basic profile and expect that to do the work – I’ve been very guilty of this in the past myself.
Recently I have been experimenting with Linkedin and my activity has gone from being semi-dormant and totally non-rewarding to suddenly building a seemingly endless stream of enriching contacts.
You’ve got to stand out, socialise, circulate, tell people about yourself, charm (not smarm) people, test your limits and be prepared to put in the long-game work to make things happen.
Social media is exactly like a party full of interesting people – if all you do is stand in the corner, you might as well not be there.

Comment on Are you promoting your good points? Testimonials, videos, reviews…it all counts! by Adrian Swinscoe

Adrian Swinscoe — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:37:04 +0000

Hi Michelle,
I think you are absolutely right that using the words of our customers to provide ‘social proof’ is essential. One of my customers uses http://www.feefo.com/ to help with this and it works really well.

Adrian

Comment on Social Media – 12 Q’s answered by Michelle Carvill by admin

admin — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 12:53:00 +0000

I agree Adrian – it’s way too long for a blog post really. Am going to create an Ebook / Whitepaper – and package it as something users can get from my Carvill Creative site (which is undergoing an overhaul in the coming weeks). Many thanks Michelle

Comment on Social Media – 12 Q’s answered by Michelle Carvill by Malcolm Evans

Malcolm Evans — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 22:23:29 +0000

I’ve never been able to test my natural skepticism about social media for useful marketing presence and lead generation until now.
Most of my work (and continues to) involves face to face contacts with fairly senior public sector, regional government and central government. In my experience the public sector still likes its meetings!
However, I have recently launched a new venture in a long time passion, corporate finance. I can see how social media is ripe for producing momentum in my chosen SME arena.
So, thanks, I am going to use this 12 pointer as a guide to laying out and building my social media stall.

Comment on Social Media – 12 Q’s answered by Michelle Carvill by Adrian Swinscoe

Adrian Swinscoe — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:36:45 +0000

Hi Michelle,
What a great way to synthesise your knowledge into a content format that is really easy to follow and really valuable. It really shows that you know whet you are talking about. I may ‘borrow’ the Q&A format if I may for post of my own? Also, if I were you I would consider turning the content into an ebook or presentation that you could share with your readers.

Adrian

Comment on Social Media – 12 Q’s answered by Michelle Carvill by Tweets that mention Carvill On Marketing blog » Social Media – 12 Q’s answered by Michelle Carvill -- Topsy.com

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 13:07:34 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Michelle Carvill, Julian Summerhayes. Julian Summerhayes said: Social Media – 12 Q’s answered by Michelle Carvill http://ff.im/-xvrJI [...]

Comment on Don’t forget the business basics… the product has to stand up by Tweets that mention Carvill On Marketing blog » Don’t forget the business basics… the product has to stand up -- Topsy.com

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:33:53 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Michelle Carvill, Michelle Carvill. Michelle Carvill said: Don’t forget the business basics… the product has to stand up http://bit.ly/gaUAJ8 [...]

Comment on Social Media Quick Check List for 2011 by wendy

wendy — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:23:08 +0000

Hi Michelle,

A really great check list!

If you put all these actions into place you have the foundations of a great strategy. A tool I like to use is called Nut Shell Mail http://nutshellmail.com/ it gives me updates to my inbox. I’m ok on everything but not so good at Forums so have set up my own team so I do not have to post all the time and makes the group more interesting.

Wendy

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by Wendy Kier

Wendy Kier — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:32:38 +0000

Thanks Michelle,
You have given me lots to think about!
I look forward to reading your 2011 posts
Wendy

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by admin

admin — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:09:04 +0000

Hi Wendy – I like the concept of the polls running on the blog posts – good way to engender some interaction. You’re right though about getting people to comments on blog posts. If you look at heavy commented blogs such as http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com or http://www.econsultancy.com and http://www.hubspot.com – you’ll see that blogs such as these attract a high number of comments. I think this boils down to the basic – ‘what’s in it for me’ – as there is generally recognition that those blogs and the comments are widely read and shared – and so there’s always the opportunity of getting picked up – someone liking your comments and checking you out. Another big factor is content – and content integrity. If the content of the blog fits with what you are about – then you are more likely to want to contribute. And so it’s ensuring that the right audience are seeing your blog – and that’s a lot to do with getting exposure. I’ve read a number of cracking articles on blogs which have no or low subscribers – but the content is superb – I do endeavour to link to those in my blog – and hopefully, this pattern of sharing and promoting could lead to those that are great authority writers and thinkers offering practical opinion and advice – being picked up. On Twitter, Linked In and Facebook – there’s an immediacy – and again, a simple comment on linked in is going to get tracked by the search engines – so it adds some value. That said, one of my resolutions for 2011 is to comment on posts where I have a viewpoint – and make more of an effort to contribute and feedback, regardless of popularity. It’s a long game – and so my advice is to keep at it – comment on other blogs, keep writing great pieces – try out different incentives to engender interactivity. Sending best wishes for a great Christmas. And thanks for the comment… Michelle

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by Wendy Kier

Wendy Kier — Sat, 18 Dec 2010 12:03:49 +0000

Hi Michelle,

Really great blogging tip! As a new blogger you have given me lots to think about.

Over the last couple of weeks I have been creating what I call open learning blog posts. By creating polls on the blog post the readers can actively have their say which is really great fun. I find the challenge is getting people from 1 platform to another.
I use Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter I find that it is a real challenge to get people leaving comments on a blog post they will however actively comment in LinkedIn and Facebook and Tweet.

Why do you think people are less likely to comment on a blog post?

Happy Christmas

Wendy

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Matt Kammerait

Matt Kammerait — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:55:13 +0000

I’ve found that incremental improvements are often the way to go when dealing with productivity. If I make a huge jump and go all Navy SEAL for a week – I get a lot done, but it’s not sustainable. Instead, it’s the small measured things that I’m able to do week after week that help me to improve my overall pace and output.

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by Adrian Swinscoe

Adrian Swinscoe — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:40:19 +0000

Hi Michelle,
These are some great tips. Only some of which I have picked up on my blogging journey (11 months short) I try to do many of these and have been working out what works for and what doesn’t. I tend to hover around the 400-500 words mark for each post…..bite sized chunks work for me but need to work out (more) what works for my readers a bit more.
Adrian

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Malcolm Evans

Malcolm Evans — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:29:05 +0000

Think what it is you do to add value. Think what it is that gets you paid. From there you need to do two things – marketing and CPD (continued professional development). Focus on these – otherwise the temptations to fall away into a smersh of infotainment can be overpowering.

Comment on Social Media Planning – a step by step approach by Malcolm Evans

Malcolm Evans — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 09:10:01 +0000

Nice, comprehensive post. I guess the big unknown still in commercial social media is gauging what will work for you and what is simply activity for activity’s sake. I’ve reached a stage in physical networking where I pick off about one event per week, somewhere within about 50 miles of me, and work that event thoroughly. I have found this works spectacularly well if I manage to judge the potential reasonably well in advance.
The same, I suspect, is going to occur in the shake out that must come around social media – the effective people will do the right amount of really useful stuff, whilst the herd will gallop around joining everything and not getting very far at all.

Comment on The current consumer psyche – no cherry sauce thanks! by Heather Townsend

Heather Townsend — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 10:36:53 +0000

An interesting post. I agree with you, starting a business in a recession is a good rather than mad time to start. As you said, companies are less loyal and more willing to try a new supplier.

But, it is worth remembering that as companies are less loyal, you need to redouble your efforts on keeping the clients you want to keep, as they too may be looking at new suppliers.

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Mike Pedersen

Mike Pedersen — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 01:51:20 +0000

You are a multi-tasker (or is it ADD?) LOL. One thing I’m working on is setting up a google calender and sticking to it as much as I can. For example, turning off email and ONLY addressing it 2 times a day and that’s it. This is kind of a Tim Ferriss approach. If anything Michelle, have you read his book? Based on everything you’ve said in your post, it would be a good read.

There are so many things online that can distract us from getting important tasks done, but it sounds like you are getting your stuff done, so kudos to you for that.

Cheers,
Mike

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Jeff

Jeff — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 13:12:40 +0000

Hi Michelle,

I agree with Adrian, all great tips but I have to say number seven really hits home. I think many of us suffer from the woe is me – not enough time syndrome. I found that when researching an article I am writing I wind up following stories I find interesting even if they aren’t on topic. Having to reel myself back in and managing my time better is definitely something that I can relate to!

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Adrian Swinscoe

Adrian Swinscoe — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 13:59:12 +0000

Hi Michelle, These are some great tips and thing that we could all benefit from implementing. One thing I like to do that works for me is to decide the day before (end of the day) what my priorities will be for the next day. I find that it’s a great way to settle my brain and switch off for the day and can allow me to better focus on the ‘me’ time.
Adrian

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Michelle Carvill

Michelle Carvill — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 07:04:54 +0000

Some great feedback so far – thank you. This article is also on topic and has some useful tips to share. Shall heed…http://www.businesszone.co.uk/topic/business-lifestyle/15-ways-improve-your-time-management/31199?ref=ukbf

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Guy Stephens

Guy Stephens — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 19:06:53 +0000

Really enjoyed the post. I was at a Digital Surrey tweetup recently and Antony Mayfield was talking about this very subject and he mentioned something called the Pomodoro Effect. Essentially you say I will only spend 15 minutes or whatever time you set aside for something and that is it. Once the time is up, you literally stop and move on to the next thing.

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Matt Kammerait

Matt Kammerait — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 14:45:19 +0000

whoops, looks like you need a www. in the above link.

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Matt Kammerait

Matt Kammerait — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 14:44:32 +0000

My general practice is to deal with the most stressful things first – they’re generally the looming high priority items that I’d put off, ignore, or otherwise avoid. By working from most to least stressful, I also capitalize on being most alert and in tune first thing in the morning (not true for everyone, of course…).

I also try to keep a general estimate of time for each project and compare actual time taken to those estimates to revise over time.

Christopher Penn combines a few methodologies (10-2-5, GTD, etc.) in this video – http://christopherpenn.com/2010/08/getting-stuff-done-video/

It was extremely helpful for me in getting my online habits in order.

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by aparadekto

aparadekto — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 09:43:24 +0000

Hey, I can’t view your site properly within Opera, I actually hope you look into fixing this.

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by Julia

Julia — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 07:22:32 +0000

Oh thank goodness it’s not just me!! I was beginning to think I’d never get sorted! I find that I get more work done before I switch twitter on. Once it’s on then those distractions are always there & like you say for the best of intentions because there are some fab posts out there to be read – like this one!

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by John Langford

John Langford — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 11:49:35 +0000

Thanks. I love this message and wish it were broadcast far and wide. There is life beyond SM and constant communication. From one who has experienced overwhelm and come through it!!

Comment on The Power of Distraction and How to Overcome Those Bad Online Habits! by online fitness courses

online fitness courses — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 11:48:14 +0000

I want to keep my self fit. I hope your website will be helpful for me in this object. Your close cooperation will remain forever, I shall be very thankful to you.

Comment on Social Media Planning – a step by step approach by Aaron

Aaron — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 03:45:00 +0000

Thank you for this great post! I am really into social media right now, especially Facebook Marketing and FBML…It can be hard to keep up to date on this every changing concept, but thanks to blog posts like yours and the resource http://www.facebook.com/thefanpagefactory I at least have a chance at staying ahead of the game!

Thanks again!
Enjoy.

Comment on Getting to grips with the Marketing Mix by Carvill On Marketing blog » Marketing Plan Template Step 5 & 6

Carvill On Marketing blog » Marketing Plan Template Step 5 & 6 — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:16:34 +0000

[...] for more information on The Marketing Mix see my blog post Getting to Grips with the Marketing Mix [...]

Comment on Usability testing. No lab, just good old fashioned eyes and ears! by Carvill On Marketing blog » Usability checklist – can the homepage break the rules!

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:57:31 +0000

[...] the post Usability: Good old fashioned eyes and ears – for more and whilst yes, there are accepted conventions, and best practice usability [...]

Comment on Social Media…make it part of your marketing mix! 5 things to do right now! by Carvill On Marketing blog » How I am using Twitter – by a relatively new Twitterer…

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:45:01 +0000

[...] Recent Comments Carvill On Marketing blog » Blogging the Seth Godin way – it’s Eastenders…! on 20 tips for successful blog writing (from a relatively new blogger!)Carvill On Marketing blog » Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand?Carvill On Marketing blog » 20 tips for successful blog writing (from a relatively new blogger!) on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand?Andy Powell on Does your Icebreaker beat the cheesy holiday snap in the slide show?admin on How I am using Twitter – by a relatively new Twitterer…admin on Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down…Lesley Aveyard on Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down…Lesley Aveyard on How I am using Twitter – by a relatively new Twitterer…Lucy D on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced bloggerBlogging Tips | Geoffrey Moffett Network on Social Media…make it part of your marketing mix! 5 things to do right now! [...]

Comment on 20 tips for successful blog writing (from a relatively new blogger!) by Carvill On Marketing blog » Blogging the Seth Godin way – it’s Eastenders…!

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:37:45 +0000

[...] Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand?Carvill On Marketing blog » 20 tips for successful blog writing (from a relatively new blogger… on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand?Andy Powell on Does your Icebreaker beat the [...]

Comment on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand? by Carvill On Marketing blog » Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:24:10 +0000

[...] On Marketing blog » 20 tips for successful blog writing (from a relatively new blogger!) on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand?Andy Powell on Does your Icebreaker beat the cheesy holiday snap in the slide show?admin on How I am [...]

Comment on Is your ring tone part of your personal brand? by Carvill On Marketing blog » 20 tips for successful blog writing (from a relatively new blogger!)

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:18:19 +0000

[...] I throw in a blog post thread into the forum for debate. I recently did this with a post titled: Is your ringtone part of your personal brand. It caused quite a response on the forum – and is still adding traction to my blog. I don’t [...]

Comment on Marketing yourself via your CV by uk jobs

uk jobs — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 22:23:33 +0000

A great article with some interesting tips.
Always send a covering letter with your academic CV, recent research we recently undertook, proved that many employers will not even read a CV that is sent without a covering letter.
The Personal Profile on your CV is often the first paragraph the employer looks for and reads, as the article above says you need to sell your strengths that are needed for the job you are applying for, turning your general CV into a targeted CV. Don’t undersell yourself here, you need to be positive while keeping the personal profile short and direct.

Comment on Does your Icebreaker beat the cheesy holiday snap in the slide show? by Andy Powell

Andy Powell — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:10:01 +0000

Perfect! Great story! 10/10

Comment on How I am using Twitter – by a relatively experienced Twitterer… by admin

admin — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 21:22:07 +0000

Thanks for sharing Lesley.

Comment on Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down… by admin

admin — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 21:19:51 +0000

Great advice Lesley – listening in is key to social media. And I take your point that social media isn’t just about Twitter and FB. In fact, in a previous blog post about getting started with social media – I cite the importance of blogs and forums. And yes – lots of people on a very active forum I participate in as you rightly say, are not on Twitter, nor do they have any interest in Twitter. Thanks for the contributions – look forward to future conversations.

Comment on Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down… by Lesley Aveyard

Lesley Aveyard — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:54:26 +0000

You need to LISTEN before entering into Social Media engagement.

The world is not yet on Twitter nor does it have a FaceBook.

Depending on what your products or services are, creating an account with Twitter and FB will not bring success!

You need to be present where your target audience is! Then you can invite over to FB & Twitter.

Social Web Analysis can help you understand where to engage.

Too many people overlook the millions of forums and message boards where a lot of the less teckie, not so internet savvy people hang out and share opinions and comments. So by getting a snap shot of where your target audience is, you know exactly where to begin connecting. There are certain people within your target audience that you wouldnt get on Twitter in a million years, but they still have opinions, they are still ‘customers’ and they have a voice!

Try http:// panalyser.com for a bit of analysis before engagement – it doesn’t cost the earth and it wont cost you your customers either.

For any Social Media engagement/strategy to be relevant, you need to LISTEN first.

Comment on How I am using Twitter – by a relatively experienced Twitterer… by Lesley Aveyard

Lesley Aveyard — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:42:55 +0000

I have a list of almost 80 things you can do and use Twitter for – it is the top tool in Social Media.

Never market yourself or your products or services, keep any advertising to PPC.

The whole point is to ‘reach out’, build trust and gain ‘a following’

I regularly engage in conversations on Twitter, which very often turn into a group discussion – and this could be about something as random as a cheese sandwich, people are people and we need to understand how to engage with others without keeping our business interests at the fore front all the time.

I have done business with people I have connected with on Twitter, although our Tweets were not about doing business initially and the venture we have collaborated on is nothing any of us had planned – simply an idea was borne and we went for it!. We just came to trust one another through ‘banter’ ‘sharing’ ‘informing’ ‘humouring’ and being reciprocal.

Reciprocation and etiquette are things not all Twitter courses teach you and reciprocation is the very essence of Twitter.

If you want any of my 80 uses – visit my site and sign up for my newsletter

Well done, and happy Tweeting

Comment on Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger by Lucy D

Lucy D — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 22:11:27 +0000

Thanks for this posting – we’ve been considering setting up a blog for our website (http://www.launchmarketing.co.uk/) and this has been really useful. We recently launched and keen to direct more traffic to the site – think a blog would be a great starting point – although finding the time?!

Comment on Social Media…make it part of your marketing mix! 5 things to do right now! by Blogging Tips | Geoffrey Moffett Network

Blogging Tips | Geoffrey Moffett Network — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 16:32:18 +0000

[...] as Twitter, Facebook, Digg, Linked In (all social spaces relevant to your industry). (See my Social Media posts for more practical advice on [...]

Comment on Social Media…make it part of your marketing mix! 5 things to do right now! by Carvill On Marketing blog » Tried and tested Blogging Tips – from a relatively experienced blogger

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:22:39 +0000

[...] such as Twitter, Facebook, Digg, Linked In (all social spaces relevant to your industry). (See my Social Media posts for more on [...]

Comment on Social media – add it to your mix! 5 things to do right now… by Carvill On Marketing blog » Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down…

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:43:32 +0000

[...] some tactics and basics. If you’d like to take a look at this it’s here. And also Tips for Getting Started with Social Media – which may prove useful I’ve got anothe post lined up which looks at the recent survey as to [...]

Comment on Social Media activity – once you stop can you ever catch up? by Marie

Marie — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:12:34 +0000

A very good point that’s well detailed! I’ve noticed this trend myself, particularly as I prioritise the other 110 jobs I need to do for my business on top of blogging; so i’m still trying to get the balance right! I’ll let you know how I get on!!

Comment on Banks be nimble, banks be quick! by Michelle Carvill

Michelle Carvill — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:21:10 +0000

Pleased to advise that the bank I’d made my complaint to – Nat West, have sent a letter today to advise me that they are clearing the £60 charges! It only took 3 emails, 2 phone calls – but at least the outcome is positive. Customer service is about serving the customer – not stinging them and then recovering the service. Have to say, it still leaves me with a negative flavour in my mouth about the bank. They could have handled it SO much better. Come on customer service teams – really deliver service rather than act on complaints!

Comment on Why is NOTHING ever simple? Crack it and you’re laughing! by Online stepping stones

Online stepping stones — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 03:25:30 +0000

Great article. If only we could make everything simple then it would be great. Keep up the good work.

Comment on 2009 The birth of the Social Media Expert by Simon

Simon — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 05:25:43 +0000

You can use social media networks in isolation, because of the huge amounts of traffic, high page rank sites, and the fact that the networking and cross linking mechanisms are already well developed.

Arguably you could create a marketing strategy without ever stepping outside a large social network?

Comment on 2009 The birth of the Social Media Expert by shawn

shawn — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 23:00:29 +0000

this is spot on and we did a satirical piece mocking fake “social media experts” http://reallychill.org/comedy/breaking-news-new-government-program-to-support-social-media-expert-depression/

Comment on Get Targeted with your Social Media Audience by Carvill On Marketing blog » 2009 The birth of the Social Media Expert

Carvill On Marketing blog » 2009 The birth of the Social Media Expert — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:21:57 +0000

[...] Get Targeted with your Social Media Audience [...]

Comment on Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down… by Carvill On Marketing blog » 2009 The birth of the Social Media Expert

Carvill On Marketing blog » 2009 The birth of the Social Media Expert — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:19:00 +0000

[...] wrote a blog post some months ago now – about Implementing a Social Media Strategy – the post was born from activity I’d been undertaking with a client I’ve been working with [...]

Comment on Not a bag for life? I don’t get it… by Ali Turnbull

Ali Turnbull — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:32:49 +0000

That’s like the Dixons ‘last place’ ad – grab a catchy phrase and then don’t think it through. Mind you, I went off Phones 4 U with some of their inane TV ads, so it wouldn’t change my buying habits.

Best marketing and brand management this Christmas – Morrisons Penrith – store burned down two weeks ago and they opened temporary store in car park as soon as humanly possible. Top brass came to cut ribbon. Huge brand loyalty from locals

Comment on Not a bag for life? I don’t get it… by Babs Saul

Babs Saul — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:30:03 +0000

Oh dear – they got that thoroughly wrong, didn’t they. Clever, it was not, and has ended up having quite the opposite effect of what was surely intended – perhaps especially as their irritating adverts are so horribly memorable – they will now also be associated with a negative approach to environmental issues. I’m sure this was not their intention, nor to actually be unfriendly towards green issues, but someone there just did not think it through.
Bless!

Comment on Not a bag for life? I don’t get it… by Nikki Pilkington

Nikki Pilkington — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 12:10:55 +0000

That’s shocking – surely someone must have realised that the underlying message was ‘throw this away after Christmas’? I realise not everyone is 100% into recycling and eco friendliness, but this does seem a little thoughtless!

Comment on How I am using Twitter – by a relatively experienced Twitterer… by Carvill On Marketing blog » Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down…

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:55:51 +0000

[...] about Twitter – some tactics and basics. If you’d like to take a look at this it’s here. And also Tips for Getting Started with Social Media – which may prove useful I’ve got anothe [...]

Comment on Social Media Strategy – Marketers – it’s too fast to pin down… by Sean Tully

Sean Tully — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:42:45 +0000

Yes, I agree. I’m new to social media (like this month!!) and am approaching it from a charity fundraising point of view. So 1) figuring out for myself how to strategise it into my own business, and 2) how to enable charities (mostly small and local) to find time and resource for it.
thanks for the tips – will check out your others too…
Sean

Comment on Get a clue! DON’T ask people to register! by Ian - Marketing Difference

Ian - Marketing Difference — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:43:22 +0000

Registration is totally against the spirit of the internet. You deter potential customers by demanding registration as they will think it isn’t worth the hassle or you are going to bother them with spam.

Registration should only occur at point of purchase or to protect commercial sensitive information.

Comment on JESUS took risks and was crucified – to innovate you have to be prepared to fail! by michelle

michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:08:21 +0000

Indeed, in the article I mention others such as Gandhi and Mandela – people who took enormous risks! The article is really about risk taking – and how far some people are prepared to go. I’m totally with you when you say ‘If you take a risk and fall flat on your face trying, at least you are moving forward’ – that’s right. I’d like to see more people encouraged to try without organisations worrying about the failure. Failure is how we learn – innovation is all about the ‘trying’ – it may indeed fail – but hey, it may work! If we don’t try we’ll never know.

Comment on Social Media and Socialising…Let’s not muddy the waters. by michelle

michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:03:06 +0000

Hi there – Re your query about whether my Twitter activity is leading to conversions – well, selling services, and particularly, marketing consultancy services isn’t as cut and dry as selling low cost products where users can visit a site and buy online. So ‘conversions’ don’t really apply – however, I can definitely say that it’s helped to grow general awareness of who I am, what I do etc – and I have connected with a lot of great contacts – and have been approached on a number of occasions for advice , opinion etc. The subscribers to my blog grows usually each time I tweet about my latest blog post – so that’s generally growing targeted awareness.

You have to ask yourself the question as to what you are setting out to achieve with your Twitter activity – those that just post ‘sales’ messages all the time don’t actually get much airtime – and are soon unfollowed. Those that join the conversation, listen to what’s going on, provide good sound advice, comments etc (actually contributing) are the ones that do get air time and grow relevant followers. Growing a relevant audience can only be a good thing in the grand scheme of things. I do know of businesses that are using Twitter and it’s definitely driving more traffic to their blogs and sites – again, that’s not a bad thing. So all positive and whilst no ‘direct’ sales have so far happened, that’s not really the nature of what I set out to achieve. Why not try it for yourself – after all – what have you got to lose? Good luck. Michelle