[2013 trends] Africa finding its own solutions using mobile tech

[Dr KF Lai] There are several key trends that will present themselves in 2013. Increasingly, we will see more and more innovative solutions to issues facing emerging countries being developed in-country and, while cost of smartphones is still hindering wide-scale usage of these handsets, the tide is turning as cheaper units enter the market. Marketers, too, are seeing their roles and responsibilities expand. 25 Jan 2013 10:57

Death of the social media guru

[Chris James] The true meaning of a guru refers to a Hindu or Sikh religious teacher or leader, giving personal spiritual guidance to his disciples. 25 May 2013 08:20

Eight guidelines for report writing

[Tiffany Markman] You'll agree that what I'm about to say is not rocket science. Here goes: a report is written to be read by someone else. Now, if this is the central goal, a lot of your focus should fall on that 'someone else', and on giving them what they need, in a format that'll work for them, so that they read what you've written and rapidly agree with it. 7 Oct 2011 11:18

Value of segmentation models in marketing

[Amanda Cromhout] Sounds easy doesn't it? But how do you start such a strategy? Do you even know who your most profitable customers are?

[2013 trends] Predictions for the retail sector

[Gareth Pearson] A transformation is in motion amongst shoppers and retailers country-wide. Consumers are becoming more discerning and demanding, and retailers and manufacturers are under pressure to innovate, offer quality and savings - all in one eco-friendly package! Here are some interesting trends for the retail sector that I've identified for 2013. 23 Jan 2013 12:48

New Zealand media sales agency opens in Cape Town

Originally founded in New Zealand, NRS Media, an internationally operating media sales agency, has announced the opening of its first African office in Cape Town. 16 May 2013 09:13

Bizcommunity.com

How to contribute to Bizcommunity, from op-ed pieces to news

[Issued by Bizcommunity.com] Bizcommunity.com has now expanded its operations into 16 new sectors and will soon venture into another 17, providing a whole new range of target audiences for advertisers. The most critical aspect of this is the quality of content and this is a formal invitation to you to become a recognised contributor on Bizcommunity. 3 Oct 2011 14:57

How storytelling enhances the sales process

[Monika D'Agostino] From a very early age on I was fascinated by fairy tales and stories. Storytelling is essential in a consultative sales environment. It helps you connect with your prospects and it is a great way to add value rather than pushing a feature. 7 May 2013 06:59

[2013 trends] SA's youth trend-o-meter

[HDI Youth Marketeers Team] Young South Africa is savvier than ever before. If you are looking for a smart and discerning prosumer, this group of kids, teens and young adults will give you more kicks than you've ever bargained for. They know just what they are looking for from any brand, and this makes them that much more satisfying to please. Here are a few trends to look out for in 2013. 31 Jan 2013 11:30

[2013 trends] Africa's dynamic markets

[Obaika Consulting Team] The year 2013 for most brands, especially the ones coping with saturated markets in developed countries, will be a decisive one. Incorporating Africa into their corporate brand strategy, if they haven't done so, will be the better part of valour, so to speak. 31 Jan 2013 13:20

The Consumer Protection Act: best you understand it.

[Gillian Rightford] Hey, so I know we all talk about how important the consumer is in the business of creating advertising. But if you are an advertising/communication practitioners, have you taken the time to study this legislation, the new Consumer Protection Act, which goes live in April 2010? 16 Mar 2010 11:23

Seven stages in becoming an industry expert

[Douglas Kruger] From Amoeba to Icon; where do you currently rank in your industry's natural progression? In this piece, I walk you through the seven stages of development as you strive to position yourself as an industry expert. [video] 13 Apr 2013 06:31

Bizcommunity.com

[2013 trends] Pdf of 2013 Biz Trends Report now available

[Issued by Bizcommunity.com] Finally, what you've all been waiting for! Bizcommunity.com's 2013 Biz Trends Report is now available for downloading in pdf format - and this year we've improved the quality for a better tablet experience! 13 Feb 2013 14:33