TGt Franchise Leaderboard

Let's Talk

Your Total Guide To business

TGt Section Sponsor

MICHAEL AUSTEN'S TOP 10 MARKETING TIPS

Michael Austen is the boss of Big Van World, the UK's largest used van supermarket based near Swindon. He started selling vans from a caravan in 2000 and now his business is turning over close to £18million. Brought up in the circus, his dad owned Austen Circus and his entrepreneurial spirit clearly inspired his son.

This month, Michael turns 40 and he'll be sharing over the next four weeks 40 things he's learned in business and in his sector. 

This week tips 11 to 20 are around marketing which, he says, is a different discipline to sales:

1. The right advertising to the right audience - I started off advertising individual vans and cars in the Thames Valley Autotrader and I still use that resource today though it’s online. Someone who is looking for a van right now will look at this kind of site. 

2. Sponsorship - We sponsor several successful motor cross riders who are well known in the UK and overseas and that raises brand awareness over time. This also speaks to my personal passion for this sport. People who love cars, vans, bikes will be part of this tribe too.  

3. Community – be part of a community. We sponsor Cricklade Cricket Club because as a local business, employing local people it’s good for brand awareness to give back to the community. This shows potential customers you are committed to a community and keeps you in front of the mind. 

4. Social Media & SEO – digital marketing is becoming more and more important to raise awareness of potential future customers. Those who might want a van in the future or who might know someone who does. We recognise we must embrace this to stay front of mind.  

5. Public Relations – tell stories more widely around your business. This investment shows the local and wider community that things are happening in the business, it celebrates the people in your business and it allows you to become known as a voice in the business community. It also raises your credibility and keeps you front of mind. 

6. Good signage at your premises – this can be easily forgotten or seen as something obvious. However people need to know where you are, the signs need to be clear from all directions into your premises as this gives visitors the confidence they are in the right place. This is especially important if your premises are remote - for the latter, a video on your website showing where you are can be important too. 

7. Branded clothing for staff – this may not be suitable for all businesses however when you have sales staff it’s important that people know they are talking to a member of staff and feel confident about it. Ensure that the design of the clothing reflects your brand's visual identity, including colors, logos, and typography. Choose clothing styles that are comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially if your staff members will be wearing them throughout their shifts.

8. Great website – ensure you have a good website which is easy to read, user friendly, has appropriate contact details and showcases up to date information. Include clear and compelling CTAs throughout your website to encourage visitors to take desired actions, which include signing up for a weekly newsletter, requesting a quote, booking an appointment, or making a purchase. Use high-resolution images and multimedia elements such as videos and interactive features to enhance the visual appeal of your website and effectively showcase your products or services.

9. Invest in marketing assets – have banners which are kept up to date, flyer information which is accurate and carry it with you so you can share when appropriate – and give those assets to any member of your team who are ‘out and about’. Utilizing media agencies like One Day Media Agency can provide valuable expertise and resources to improve your marketing strategy. They can assist with designing effective marketing materials, optimizing distribution channels, and executing targeted campaigns to maximize your return on investment. 

10. Don’t be afraid of trying something new – sometimes you can try something new to get the word out there, sometimes in marketing you have to take a risk such as putting your name up on that billboard, offering help to that local charity. New opportunities can come from unexpected places. 

Learning new marketing tips is crucial for staying relevant, competitive, and adaptable in a constantly evolving landscape. It provides a competitive edge, improves efficiency, and expands skill sets. By staying updated, businesses can better understand consumer behavior and leverage innovative tools for more effective campaigns. Continuous learning fosters creativity, inspires innovation, and builds valuable professional relationships. It's an ongoing process that ensures businesses remain ahead of the curve, driving long-term success and growth.

To find out more visit https://www.bigvanworld.co.uk

TGt Advertising
PDQ 4 You Animated Ad
Ruby Reign Events (Animated Ad)
LV Electrix (Animated Ad)
Manchester City Shop (affiliate)
DIY Direct (Affiliate)
Leonardo Hotel (Leaderboard Ad)

Weather in Manchester

In case you missed it see what’s in this section