Whenever clients ask us to help them evaluate an opportunity, we walk them through a list of considerations. We talk about exposure, opportunity costs, potential benefits, competition and all kinds of important things.

But sometimes, we sense a client’s passion in something and we set our questions aside and advise them to do something they feel good about.

We like to take our own advice. We donate time to non-profits.  (Hint: follow us on facebook to learn more about organizations we support.) Current recipients include the Central Coast Bioneers Conference and Central Coast Funds for Children.

We are proud to be the San Luis Obispo County Bike Coalition‘s newest Silver Level Bike Friendly Business. We believe in the work they do and would like to tell you a little about them.

Their bicycle education programs teach traffic psychology and techniques that empower and protect cyclists of all ages.

Their advocacy raises awareness and participation.

They provide a great place for cyclists to touch base and keep their machines in top shape.

And, of course, they offer the Bike Valet service at local events. Seriously, what’s not to love?

We encourage you to support the SLO County Bike Coalition by becoming a member. There are various levels for both personal and business membership.

Also, be sure to tell us you’re a member when we do business together. Big Ears Strategic Marketing offers a discount to those who support the SLO County Bike Coalition.

We love supporting local organizations, but we’re not doing it alone. Many of our favorite businesses are pitching in, too. And, of course, our loyal clients and the referrals we receive allow our business to remain strong enough to support these local organizations.

Thank you for your role in making San Luis Obispo County a great place to live.

I always say, “Customer service IS marketing.” And I sometimes get uncertain looks in response. There will always be the client who wants to buy a billboard or a whole bunch of airtime, but is unwilling to step back with me and take a look at the BIG PICTURE and see the things I see.

This story from Peter Shankman illustrates how a (not so) simple act of extraordinary customer service can become a (better than money can buy) marketing opportunity. Enjoy!

Today started bright and early with a 7am meeting. A client wanted me to meet one of her clients because she thought he’d benefit from our help. It was a great meeting.

I did walk away with a new client, but that’s not what made it so great. The best part was seeing the relationship between our existing client and our new client. It was obvious that they really respected  and cared about each other. They wanted to help each other. They openly shared their praise and appreciation.

I didn’t walk into that meeting to make a sale. I went because someone I like working with wanted to help someone else. She didn’t want to help him because he is her client. She wanted to help him because he is a good guy and she is nice.

I’d heard her talk about him enough to know that meeting him would be a good experience for me. Not because he might hire me, but because I believe that connecting with honest, genuine business owners is always valuable. We hit it off and are looking forward to working together.

Being invited to see and become a part of their relationship is a great honor. It tells me my existing client trusts me and believes in what I do. It tells me that she sees the value of the services I provide. And seeing the way my clients work together reinforces one of the most overlooked marketing secrets of all: Good business starts with good people.