While the extensive media coverage for The World Cup is costly, rest assured that you don’t need to spend a lot of money on advertising in order to have it be successful. Like the soccer competition, what is important is the simplicity of the game—in fact, spectators don’t even have to fully understand all the rules and nuances of the game to enjoy watching it. In business as on the field, maintaining a simple strategy can be your key to success.

Adding to the enjoyment of The World Cup event is the atmosphere of goodwill among all the participants, players and fans alike. Nations unite for humanitarian causes, thereby creating a noble sense of community and solidarity. Such teamwork has applications for any business; competing to succeed is an incentive for any community, because it automatically elevates the quality of the offering.

The point: Strategize ways in which you and your team can bring about positive change. Competing for the good of the entire community will allow you to become more profitable and successful in the long run.

It is important to create some “buzz” that ties in with back-to-school, even if your products or services are not necessarily educational in nature. Your advertising can target more than just students—create deals specifically designed toward parents, the family unit or others. For example, a beauty salon might tout their promotion this way: “Take some time for yourself now that the kids are back to school.” The key is to aim your specials toward the right demographics. It is also beneficial to think in a broader sense within your local community and partner with schools or local businesses that do have a direct tie to education. One idea might be to sponsor a contest, such as a Reading Program or “My Summer” essay contest with your local library. Most importantly, you must begin to plan. . .NOW.

A previous article illustrated that one quality of a successful business is planning ahead. Your combined internet/print campaign becomes even stronger when you have a clear vision for your marketing plan. At Clipper Magazine, we work closely with our clients, whether they need a simple direct-mail campaign (postcards, inserts and magazine ads) or require a lot more. With our various in-house divisions, we can provide email marketing, web design, search marketing, and complete creative and marketing solutions. Using an A+ resource like Clipper Magazine ensures that you stay ahead of the class—and on top of your competition.

The point: Think higher ROI and start planning for your back-to-school campaign now.