Publishers’ Perspective
A Look at the Industry Today
As we begin the month of May the picture of how the economy is going to impact our business for the rest of the season is becoming clearer. Whatever segment of the industry you are in, the impact has most likely been significant to you or businesses you are in close contact with. So, what now? What are you going to do to get the most out of this summer’s opportunities? What are you doing different now, to get more traffic through your doors, or to make the phone ring?
To help you think through your choices, and wade through the myriad of marketing opportunities you may be considering, we have added a new member to our valiant team of writers. This issue Pam Greiner joins us and her first topic is just that. What can you do, right now, to generate new business. Is anything more important at this time? For many of us I would guess this is issue # 1.
Pam’s background includes providing online, and off, marketing solutions. Her active client list includes a number of contractors, retailers, and distributors across the country. She helps clients develop cost-effective marketing and e-marketing plans.
In the last issue, I mentioned how important getting away from the office is – by attending seminars and trade shows. (In fact I have been beating it to death haven’t I). I also mentioned the fact that koi health labs were held periodically around the country, and in this issue we have a story by one of the leading “Wet Lab” teachers in the U.S. – Vicki Vaughan.
Vicki’s article is a bit graphic, so hang in there. If you have never attended a wet lab, and you deal with koi, you really should consider it. This article will give you a preview of what you have to look forward to and what you can learn through hands on experience.
Coming up this summer are numerous events, many sponsored by your local distributors. If you get an invitation to attend, give it a shot–even if you already know it all. I had the opportunity to visit the folks at Pondliner.com in Oklahoma, during their annual Spring Kickoff event, and enjoyed many things, including the opportunity to talk with others in this industry without being overheard by potential customers.
Upcoming National events to remember are the IWGS (International Waterlily & Water Gardening Society) annual symposium held this year in St. Charles, Illinois, July 16th – 20th; Pondapalooza – Portland, Oregon, August 23rd – 26th; and Info Tanza, Atlanta, Georgia, October 22nd – 24th. Make it a point to get out and do at least one of these, all three if you can. It is YOUR Industry, after all. Your support is needed to help it grow. You will learn from attending these events and you will come home rejuvenated to boot.
