Getting a Small Business Off the Ground? Check!

While Strats Inc has guided many big brands to business and marketing success, it has always recognised the important role the entrepreneur plays in South Africa.

“We’ve always been here to help the little guy,” says Philip Hendrickse, MD of Strats Inc. “Small businesses have become the backbone of the country’s economy and we’ve invested ourselves in their vision. At Strats Inc, we realised that we must deliver solutions to meet their unique needs and take their business to another level. We want them to be able to grow their capacity and attract new customers without wasting money or opportunities.”

Three Ticks to Success
With this in mind, Strats Inc has developed Tickbox Solutions: off-the-shelf, semi-customised marketing and communication modules aimed at meeting the niche needs of today’s small business owner.

“We offer three solutions to the business owner to help kick start their marketing smarts,” he says.

The first is designed to put the company on the map. It offers a complete analysis of the current business model. It helps segment the company’s target market and identify its nearest competitors.

“Often small business owners don’t understand how to make their marketing budgets work for them,” he explains, “Or are not able to identify and exploit their unique offerings in the market place. We show them how to package and sell their brand.”

Standing Out in the Crowd
The second offering is aimed at consolidating the small business by revisiting its advertising approach and defining its competitive edge in a crowded market place.

“Here we aim to give insight into current industry trends and to foster better relationships with the company’s customers,” he says. “We also advise the client if it’s the right time to grow the company or hold steady on expansion.”

Strategic Growth
All over South Africa, small business owners are working hard to succeed. With their focus on their core business competencies, they often don’t understand the strategic aspects of marketing or grasp the skills that will take their business to the next level.

“Our third tier of the Tickbox package focuses on follow-through strategies the business owner can implement once he’s consolidated his business,” says Hendrickse. “We look to break the small business mindset and implement ideas that will help stimulate bigger and more exciting ideas.”

At this level, Strats Inc will develop a strategic brand blueprint and encourage a client to investigate marketing platforms offered by the web or public relations and a more focused media strategy. It will also focus on competitive forecasting and brand reviews.

“One area a company can elevate its status is in the area of corporate social responsibility and sponsorships. We can also offer strategies in employee relationship management and customer relationship management.”