Hands-on training is essentia

Hands-on training is essential. Even what seems to be the easiest process can be overwhelming when trying to learn everything at once. Actually doing the task is the best way to learn. This training should also be supported with a detailed manual and in-person or telephone consultation.

The manual is the map or guided tour that will be consulted constantly during the startup phase. Thorough manuals should include background information, marketing tips, resources and any processes the new business owner will need to know. For example, our manual includes step-by-step instructions for processing photographs. It is so detailed that it starts with putting the camera card into the computer and ends with pressing ‘print’ on the photo software. The same is true for each office procedure, marketing initiative and customer follow-up, to name a few.

Marketing can become a full-time job in itself, especially when starting a new business. Just creating a logo and business image can be time consuming. Then there is the task of getting business cards designed and printed. As we all know, that is just the beginning. What about flyers, sell sheets, product lists, price lists and brochures? Each will need to be created, designed and printed. And where do you begin when choosing a website? Do you want to use templates or will you need a complex site? Who should you use? Referrals are the best way to make this decision; interviewing the designers also takes time. Writing the content, or hiring someone to do so is another task that must be addressed. Are you going to have a newsletter? If so, will you write it yourself or hire someone to write it for you? All of these marketing issues must be addressed, and completed, prior to opening your business. Having all of these provided for you instead will take a lot of burden off your shoulders, and bring your business a professional, tried-and-true marketing package that allows you to concentrate on building your business rather than your website!