How to Write a Strategic Marketing Plan in Four Easy Steps

Author: ajaero tony martins

Most business owners recognize the essence of marketing to a business. They know that marketing is directly proportional to sales; yet only few will invest the time and resources to write a marketing plan. Do you have a marketing plan for your business? Does your business need a marketing plan? What advantage does a marketing plan give your business? Well, I will advice you read on to find the answers you seek.

Before we proceed further, I think it\'s wise I lay out the definition of a marketing plan. Now what is a marketing plan? According to Wikipedia,

       'A marketing plan may be part of an overall business plan. A marketing plan is a plan which outlines a company\'s overall marketing efforts. Marketing process can be realized by the marketing mix in step 4. The last step in the process is the marketing controlling.

The marketing plan can function from two points: strategy and tactics. A solid marketing strategy is the foundation of a well-written marketing plan. While a marketing plan contains a list of actions, a marketing plan without a sound strategic foundation is of little use.'

Before you start a business, it is expected that you develop a marketing plan; and a good one at that. Now for those thinking of creative and innovative ways to actually accomplish a superb plan, below are four basic pointers on how to write a marketing plan:

                How to Write a Strategic Marketing Plan – Format, Template Outline

• Set good and achievable marketing objectives

There are different and specific objectives for every business. While some businesses have the goal to expand their revenue, others have goals that are focused on expanding on something else, such as its market base. Although the objectives may vary, the ways to accomplish it is still the same; and that\'s by making sure that your plan has a clear vision statement, a well-thought of SWOT analysis and is applying the S.M.A.R.T objectives.

A vision statement is simple to do as it technically contains only the long-term goals you want for your business. But bear in mind that a vision statement is important to the success of your marketing plan because it has the ability to move your business in a precise direction.

The next important thing is a SWOT analysis. A SWOT analysis is a crucial action you must take because it identifies the elements of your business; such as your business strengths, weaknesses, oppositions and threats. It should therefore not be taken for granted because it could make or break your business.

And lastly, when establishing an objective, you are advised to use the S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measureable, attainable, relevant and time-bound) characteristics to be able to reach your goal. When the objectives have been properly stated, then the next step is to go for research.

• Do good and content-wise research

Some businessmen abhor this part because it not only takes time; it is also costly. However, you must note that research is a very critical aspect of marketing. A good market research, as well as an informative market analysis; is the only way to understand how a business works and how it should work. Through research, you will be able to know who your target customers are and where can they be found. Through research, you will be able to know several ways on how to attract such market and to entice them to your product or service. It is only through research that you can get to develop your business for the better.

• Engage in Strategic Planning

The most important thing to consider when studying the pointers on how to write a marketing plan is the part of strategy planning. After answering the what (goal or objective), who and where (target market), it is now only basic to answer the 'How?'

This is a tricky aspect in marketing plans as they tend to require your effort and superb ideas to make the product or service work. However, you must not be discouraged if your strategy did not work as planned; this is quite inevitable in every business undertaking. The important thing is to be persistent and never to fear failure.

• Stick to the plan

This is a simple rule and although it looks easy to implement, it is not always the case for some businesses. Sticking to the implemented plan not only gives the impression that you are firm and decisive when it comes to business issues, it also helps you avoid the waste of time that you would experience if you change your mind about marketing plan. The best thing to do to avoid regular change of plans is to prepare a marketing plan that will not only suffice to the needs of your business but will also be the best that you ever did. Go ahead, and outdo yourself.

In conclusion, there are many other specific pointers that you need to know when writing a marketing plan but the basics, as mentioned above, should always be prioritized. After all, what is a specific and outstanding marketing plan without a good, detailed and well-thought of foundation?

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/strategic-planning-articles/how-to-write-a-strategic-marketing-plan-in-four-easy-steps-6090647.html

About the Author

And just before i drop my pen, if you are searching for the Best Startup Business ideas or you want to know how to start a catering business from home, please visit our blog to learn more.