Saturday's special: Multi-channel communications

You've heard of multi-channel retailing: selling in a store, on the Internet and through catalogs. Communications should be sent through various channels, too. Think about what you already have (or could have):

• A website
• A blog
• A newsletter
• A catalog
• A Facebook page
• A Twitter account
• A trade show booth
• A You Tube channel
• Podcasts
• Direct mail via the US Post Office

You should be using all these vehicles to tell your story to your customers and prospects. The trick is, you don't put out the exact message through each channel. Tailor the message to the medium.

An article I've been recommending lately is: 5 Reasons to Publish Your Content in Multiple Formats by the experts at Hubspot.com. Check it out.

Abstract wall decor

Picture Source introduced more than 200 images at the spring High Point furniture market.
Land- and seascapes, modern abstract geometrics and floral images are among the new pieces.

Retailers: Contact the vendor for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

A few good blogs

Retailers, are you proud of your blog?
Shoppers, do you have a favorite, must-read blog written by a retailer?
In the spirit of best practices and "we can learn from each other," I'll list and link to these blogs.
I've started a short list on the right-hand side of this page. I look forward to expanding the list.
Send me your recommendations.

'Tween girl furniture

The new Tween Girl Collection from LumiSource features lamps and seating options. Shown is the Diva Chaise Lounge. Thrones and butterfly chairs are also available.

Retailers: Contact the vendor for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Colorful bedding

"Dress A Room" is one of three new collections for autumn 2009 by Company C. The collection (shown in berry) highlights color blocking and watercolor effects as key design elements for this season, according to the company.

Retailers: Contact the vendor for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.

Artificial floral arrangement

The peony bouquet from New Growth Designs comes in a 5-inch glass cube. The overall height is 12 inches. The arrangement is assembled in North Carolina. House plants, trees, orchids, herbs and other florals are available.

---

Retailers: Contact the vendor for prices and minimums.

Shoppers: Ask your favorite independent retailer to order this item for you.