Events/Workshops

This course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools, including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well planned approach to marketing is demonstrated, with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on the customers of the business -- creating and keeping them.

Speaker: Rene Stephan, Business Consultant

When should you buy merchandise for the holidays? What quantity? What is your pricing policy? Seasonal or holiday retail management revolves around specially orchestrated promotions that have a significant impact on product demand and sales. In this seminar you will review how to calculate inventory turns, when to do markdowns, how to track sales and place buying according to category, and how to take advantage of seasonal environments, and holiday preparation. Ron Stevens, retail marketing expert and MI-SBTDC Senior Business Consultant, will be presenting. Ron has worked around the country with retail giants Marshalls and K-Mart. He brings extensive knowledge about destination and experiential retailing. Retail Management: Seasonal Success is an advanced class for owners and buyers of small to mid-size retail stores.

Speaker: Ron Stevens, MI-SBTDC Senior Business Consultant

You're up and running, right? And still busting your butt, but not getting the results you want? You're asking yourself, "Is this it? What am I missing? Learn the secrets and skills that will give you a tremendous competitive edge and dramatically improve your income! Agenda: Learn how to give an effective 60 second elevator pitch Learn valuable networking tips and how to network effectively and Get invited in!

Speaker: Denise Roberts, Sales Partners-Troy

The course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to help small businesses grow. It covers basic marketing tools including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well planned approach to marketing is demonstrated with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques.

Speaker: Staff

Using the internet effectively is a critical piece of many small businesses' marketing strategies. Learn about pay-per-click campaigns, search engine optimization, social media, blogs, podcasts and more in this information-packed session. Cut through the hype and learn which of these tools can help you grow your business.

Speaker: Shannon Beeman, MI-SBTDC Business Consultant

Marketing is the key to building awareness of your business. Having a clearly defined marketing plan is essential to the growth and success of any business. Learn the fundamentals of marketing and the primary tools for any business to secure its spot in the marketplace. Key topics covered include: importance of marketing, the marketing concept, basic aspects of a marketing plan, and available resources. This seminar is for business owners, sales consultants, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

Speaker: Kris McArdle, MI-SBTDC Certified Business Consultant

Third class in the MI-SBTDC Entrepreneurial Series, this course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well-planned approach to maketing is demonstrated, with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on creating and keeping customers for the business.

Speaker: Tim Lake, Certified Small Business Consultant