ISMM News October 2009

The latest news and events from the ISMM for October 2009

After first appearing at Successful Selling in 2001, Geoff Burch is back on the platform by popular demand.

Geoff is a remarkable speaker whose unique and refreshing outlook on all manner of business topics has made his name into a global brand and himself into someone who is constantly in demand for his memorable and uplifting presentations. His credentials are impressive, working extensively with the world's major blue chip companies to motivate and inspire their people and as a regular contributor and presenter on television and radio. Geoff is the presenter of his own business show on BBC Television called All Over the Shop.

His extensive use of humour should not hide the fact that he has some powerful business messages which can benefit any organization. Indeed, recent research suggests that audiences cannot listen to a boring speaker â€" however important the message or the topic. Up to 86% of an audience will have switched off within three minutes of the start of a presentation by a non-stimulating speaker.

Geoff will join other speakers James Timpson, Shaa Wasmund, Gary Bertwistle, Marc Hogan, Andy Bounds, John Hotowka and Olympic Medallist Steve Smith with Chairman Jeremy Jacobs on 6th October at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. If you have not yet booked your ticket, call the ISMM on 01582 840001.

…… A survey revelled that One in seven companies in the UK marketing services industry could change ownership as a result of the current economic downturn, according to a new study by financial analysts Plimsoll. With a surprising number of 'cash rich' predators waiting in the wings, the market could be set for a prolonged period of consolidation. David Pattison, author of the study, explains: "In the current climate, there are simply too many companies chasing too little business. It really is a buyers' market out there for cash rich companies." Plimsoll analysed 648 companies with a turnover of over £1m per annum and has identified 144 that are potential takeover targets. It estimates that 325 companies are potential acquirers, with a sizeable cash reserve on their balance sheets that, due to record low interest rates, is generating little return. These companies are now in the position to buy up large chunks of market share at rock bottom prices and make their money work for them.

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A new Survey confirms over three quarters of UK businesses already use social networking and collaborative tools - generally referred to as Web 2.0 technologies as alternative to email and information sharing. The survey looked at drivers and barriers for adoption of web 2.0 technologies in organisations. It showed that nearly half (46%) of respondents believe there will be a steady increase in the use of Web 2.0 in their organisations over the next 12 months and over 81% are already using it as an alternative to conventional email and for sharing information in the business environment.

It is reported that companies are promptly dealing with customer gripes that have been 'tweeted' and maintaining Facebook and other network 'pages' to extend and enhance their brand reach.

However despite the increase in interest towards social networking websites, blogs and wikis, there is still scepticism â€" with 40% saying their organisations are not using Web 2.0 technologies. The top three reasons given are security, lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness as a relevant business communications tool, and the time it takes to use such media. …….

Research reveals that Businesses are overlooking new sales opportunities, in spite of the tough operating climate, according to a new research study undertaken by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA). The research shows that a quarter of companies failed to respond to a customer enquiry via their website and that even when prompted, 14% still did not respond. The study involved sending a simple email request for a catalogue or brochure to 100 UK companies in 10 different industry sectors. Of those that responded, the average response time was 3.6 days and only 34% sent a personalised reply. "Incredible as it may seem, companies are falling at the first hurdle and turning away potential sales," says John Dyson of the DMA Response Management Council. "It is a proven fact that a fast personalised reply results in an increase in conversion rates, greater customer loyalty and a rise in sales. Some companies need to go back to the drawing board and reassess their response handling."

To learn more about the ISMM and register for membership contact the website www.ismm.co.uk or call 01582 840001.