We have some lovely parting gifts

Don't let them leave empty handed.

Do you let your customers leave empty handed?

To some merchants, it is a huge failure to see a customer walk out the door without making a purchase.

But there's more you can give them.

• A flyer
• A business card
• A promotional magazine
• A bounce back coupon
• A free sample
• A sincere "thank you for stopping by and considering us for your needs"
• An assurance you'll research the product they were searching for

An empty bag can be filled with more than products. 

CIO, CEO, COO or CMO?

Title. Moniker. Label. Handle. We have them. We use them. We pay big bucks for them.

CIO = Chief Information Officer

CEO = Chief Executive Officer

COO = Chief Operating Officer

What could CMO be? I've written earlier about Disney's version of CMO, their Chief Magic Official. But that's not what I'm talking about.

This is about the job of the CMO, the Chief Me Officer. Do you have an idea? A vision? A passion? A hidden talent? It's about self promotion. It's about getting your message out to the masses. In the early stages of a business or any venture, you have to do the work of HR, Marketing, Finance and be the CEO all at the same time. 

One simple place to start is with a business card. The cheapest form of advertising is word of mouth. But a card that gives your contact information is among the least expensive ways to get your name out. 

It's up to you. This little bit of self promotion is a good way to remain in the forefront of people's minds. So go ahead, toot your own horn.

After all, if you're not your own Chief "Me" Official, who will be?