Ratings, reviews, social networking … Businesses know the value of using Web 2.0 to market products and services. But what happens when a competitor uses user-generated content against you?

Twitter is a great way to create fans. Unfortunately, unless you control your messaging, it's also a great way to turn those fans into foes.

“The death of traditional marketing” is all the buzz. But if you need to generate leads and close deals fast, killing traditional tactics could also kill cash flow.

Customers who are merely satisfied will leave you for any competitor who can offer a lower price.  Could changing the way you view marketing change “merely satisfied” customers into fans who are wild about you – at any price?

If it's true that in B2B, "the customers you select are the company you become," how can you turn great marketing analytics into great customers?

Getting ready to create a website, business card or brochure? Think twice before you “save money” by using a template — it could end up costing you $100,000.

Why Land Rover's "luxury" tagline is out of step with the times -- and why you need to fix your own out-of-touch messaging before you're out of customers.

How is a boutique stocking up on new customers despite a grim economy and lousy retail climate?  With “Insider Trading” – a strategy that also works for CPAs, consultants, and just about every business!

Yes, customers are watching every penny.  But instead of cutting your prices, try fattening your offer with irresistable "extras."  Best of all, those extras don't have to cost you a penny!

Is fear of real or perceived risk keeping your customers from committing?  If so, spend some time brainstorming about shared-risk offers that could turn your sale from cold … to gold.

Has this rollercoaster economy got your customers holding onto their money tighter than ever?  A simple, common-sense marketing approach can calm the ride and help them let go.

The economy’s awful.  But I’m about to spend a bundle on a new furnace, toilet and front porch lights. These purchases weren't even on my radar a few days ago. But then a local business had a great marketing idea ...

The green market is exploding.  Isn’t it? Or is this a perfect example of a trend that may be pure gold for some businesses, but that will trap your business into a marketing disaster? You can spot the difference by answering two questions...