I always make time at least twice a year to do an audit, and adjust my business plan. It's important to do this as it help makes sure I'm clear about my goals, and focusses my attention on how I can improve my brand and services.
Do you do regular audits?
I recently did a BIG one. I went through my marketing plan and looked at what has been working, and what hasn't. I studied growth and engagement on all my social media platforms. I made notes about what type of content has been getting the best response. I noted the amount of time and effort I put into each network (on average) and calculated my ROI for each.
I also did research into people and websites who offer similar products and services to me. I studied their website designs, and content. I made notes about what seems to be working for them. I also noted the types of widgets they used on their websites.
I then researched website designs, looked into branding in more detail, and raided Pinterest for inspiration. I looked at colour schemes, and font combinations. I studied website layouts, and calls to action.
Yes all this was time consuming. It's been hugely valuable though, and quite a lot of fun too. I know, I'm a freak. I actually enjoy playing around with html code.
Anyway, the result of all this is that I now have a new business plan, a new marketing plan, and a new website design in the making. I've even created a new logo for branding. What do you think of the new look?
I've already started rolling out the new design and will be continuing to update over the next month... including the launch of new products and services.
If you have any suggestions you'd like me to consider for the website, newsletter, social media, or even future books, please let me know.
Looking at sales channels...
Something else I've been thinking about a lot is the sales channels for my books. Whilst I'm currently part of the KDP Program on Amazon (and Kindle Unlimited), my books are all available for expanded distribution and as such can also be purchased through other retailers like Barnes and Noble. I also have books published via Lulu which are also available on itunes e.g Italian for Tourists. What I'm still trying to decide is whether or not to make them all available on other sites too or not.
Would you like to be able to buy my books from sites like Smashwords too? What sites/formats do you think I should add? Or should I stay in the KDP Program and remain Amazon "exclusive"? Would you be interested in audio versions of my books?
I really appreciate your input on this. I want to improve things for you. I want to make sure I'm offering you, what you want.
Thank you for your feedback.
.jpg)
