There is so much literature available to help us determine if marketing efforts are making a difference. However, small businesses really don’t need that level of metrics. The bottom line for a small enterprise is whether sales are improving. That’s really it.

It’s good to know what marketing endeavor helps the most, though. Now is the time to ask your customers, both old and new, where they heard about your business. Don’t just stop there, though. Ask them what compelled them to visit you. That may actually be a much more important aspect of your marketing than what periodical they read. Understanding their motivations let’s you be more specific with your next round of marketing. (Oh yes, marketing is a constant, just like the seasons or the fact that any household appliance will only break when you need to use it.)

Good luck! Let me know if this marketing tutorial helps, and what your experience is. Your feedback will help me improve this over time.