steveveilleux's blog

By Nancy Marshall, Principal, Nancy Marshall Communications, Augusta, Maine

Many contractors believe that word of mouth is the best source of new business….and rightly so. People are much more likely to act on a referral from a friend or business contact who they like and trust. Word of mouth marketing is by far the most powerful type of marketing.

Here are five reasons that contractors should use social media to generate word of mouth.

The craft of stone cutting stretches back to the time humans began using tools, and it continues today. The Maine Contractor Directory lists 56 stone masons, from Stockholm to Old Orchard Beach. Even more practice the art on their own, including Dennis Carter, who runs Deer Isle Hostel with his wife, Anneli Carter-Sundqvist. Read More

No matter what construction project you are undertaking with your home, an experienced, reputable architect is an invaluable asset to the process. Whether you are building an entire house, adding a bonus room, or remodeling your existing home, an architect provides designs and works with your local contractor to ensure that your home turns out just as you wish.

Click here to browse our directory of Maine Architects!

Finish by making the calls, introducing yourself and asking questions about services offered, fees, estimates, and emergency situations. Write down all of the pertinent information along with the person’s name, number, etc., and keep in a safe and memorable place. Now rest assured in the fact that you can call on a reputable plumber and electrician that you can trust in both your projects and your home.

Click here to browse our directory of Maine's best plumbers!

Assessing its impact as well as its volume will help companies take better advantage of buzz. APRIL 2010 • Jacques Bughin, Jonathan Doogan, and Ole Jørgen Vetvik Source: Marketing & Sales Practice

Consumers have always valued opinions expressed directly to them. Marketers may spend millions of dollars on elaborately conceived advertising campaigns, yet often what really makes up a consumer’s mind is not only simple but also free: a word-of-mouth recommendation from a trusted source.

Businesses must rank in the top six of local search results for their Google Places listings to have a significant marketing impact.

Get found on Google free of charge! 97% of consumers search for local businesses online. Be there when they're looking for you with Google Places for business.

Maine law requires that home construction or repair work costing more than $3,000 be based on a written contract. If your planning to hire a home improvement professional to work on your home, here are the facts.

Small Businesses
Today, small employers have a tough time finding and affording coverage that meets the needs of their employees. Starting in 2014, you’ll have more choice and control. Here is some general information plus a link to one of the best resources we have found explaining in "simpler" language how the Affordable Care Act will affect your business.