Marketing information is easy to obtain through a number of industry sources. By joining an industry organization, reading marketing resource publications, performing general searches and more can help put you at the top of your game within your business.

Use market research and Internet marketing research to work on a proposal for next year's business plan. Find out how to drive traffic to your business. Whatever you do, take advantage of the many marketing information sources available.

To find out more about marketing information resources:

1. Start with having a basic knowledge of marketing information. Marketing is different than PR, which is different than advertising. Know how to tell the difference.

2. Find the latest tools that you need for your business by utilizing available marketing information resources such as groups or magazines.

3. Take the knowledge that you have picked up through the marketing research materials and implement the steps into your business. Track the success rate as you go.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Learn basic marketing information

Find out industry information. Marketing can be an interesting business tool that can not only be applied by professionals in the field, but within businesses as well.

I recommend: Find out the basics in marketing from the Free Management Library. Learn about marketing research and more from KnowThis.com. Take advantage of marketing tips for your small business from Entrepreneur.com. See what careers in marketing are available from careers-in-marketing.com.

Find out more about market research through industry affiliations

Join an industry based group to broaden your knowledge of marketing information resources. Joining a group or affiliation gives you the benefit of networking, conferences, seminars, continuing education opportunities, new ideas and more.

I recommend: Consider becoming a member of the American Marketing Association. Find out why you should join the Business Marketing Association. The Direct Marketing Association is another group you can consider joining. See what benefits are available with membership to the eMarketing Association.

Find more marketing research through industry publications

Subscribe or check out the online versions of industry magazines and journals to find out the latest in marketing research, marketing info, market research companies, business market research and more. These publications will offer you the most up-to-date information as well as industry contacts for your reference.

I recommend: Read up on this week's e-newsletter from Target Marketing. Subscribe to Sales & Marketing Management Magazine. Take a look at the latest issue of BtoB magazine. Read the latest news from Marketing Today.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Implement marketing information into your next business plan for the coming year. Tips like gaining your customers confidence are vital to not only obtaining their business, but gaining their respect of your company as a whole. Fostering good relations with your business-to-business contacts will help grow and expand your organization.