This is a article that I wrote not to late last night, when my girlfriend asked me a question in regards to the trials and error of marketing. So i decided after the discussion, i would write this out for all my CYN members. I hope it resonates with you guys! Give me some free back please! Often, while marketing, a decision will have to be made with no clear 'right answer'. It is precisely those questions which beg the question, "How do I make wise marketing choices?" My experience indicates that, in fact, one should take at least a little time to reflect, before acting. Purely reflexive responses without reflection can lead to both disaster as well as success, but more often the success will better and more likely when considerations are made in terms of cost, time span, coverage, media type, and your firm's experience with said marketing technique or venue. What are the first steps for making a wise decision? Wise marketing typically involves making the customer feel they are getting a great deal, such as to give an illusion (or reality, as it may be) that the seller is losing money. Also, win-win situations are desirable, such as when a marketer trades with another marketer ad space such as with reciprocal trading of links on a web site. But such trading can extend beyond web site links; those can be simple, such as the following scenario: A marketer prints advertisements, takes them to local businesses. The marketer then asks the store manager if they can post their ad collection, perhaps 3 to 7 ads on a few pieces of paper, depending on how many items (products or services) they are currently promoting that day. If the store already has a posting area for ads, the marketing agent will usually buy a few items from the manager, while doing so, ask if they can either make or use a premade ad from that store in their distribution runs. Mostly likely, the manager will feel included to accept the trade, and grant the request by keeping the ad up much longer than the other ads which were posted by customers who DID NOT work out a deal prior with the owner. Examples of these kind of stores are grocery stores, check cashing places and laundry centers. If the store does NOT currently have ads posted by customers, then this may be your lucky day. How? By speaking with a manager, you may get a deal where you can post several ads on their walls, and, in return, they get you to print a few dozen copies of THEIR ads (that you offer to design, or use their pre-made ad) in your distribution to all other posting locations. In accordance with these suggestions, you, the marketer, will have a very real and strong advantage over the situation, and will be best suited to make the most sales for your own and also for your client's whose ads you posted. So, wise marketing means making the most of every opportunity. Taking time to think out a plan or course of action will, most of the time, provide superior results over impulsive reactionary behaviors. I hope this helps those looking for some guidance!