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Do the Right Things Especially During the Bad Times

May 21, 2009


So the economy isn't turning out like you'd hope right now and its, perhaps, hard to get going in the mornings.

While many are suffering, its imperative that you continue to do the right things even in the bad times - you must continue to do what will guarantee the success of your company in the long run. If you do, you and your company will not only survive, but come out stronger on the other side. If business isn't "booming" right now, its okay.  You now have more time to develop new marketing and sales disciplines.

Some ideas to keep you moving (Notice these ideas don't cost anything except time. And, when business is slow, time is something of which you actually have a little more.):

  • Read a book
    As companies cut back on spending, understandibly, you may not have the resources to implement new strategies at the moment.  That's okay. Read some books and gather ideas on some strategies you can implement as resources become available.  You don't necessarily have to buy the books, either.  Just go find a nice, comfy chair at the local Barnes & Noble, buy a coffee and read till your heart's content.

  • Write a blog
    Start developing a readership and following around your brand and its products and services.  Gather ideas and gain feedback from your company's clients.  All of this in order to build and strengthen relationships with your clients.

  • Make comments on other blogs and user forums
    Contribute your personal, professional wisdom to other blogs and their writers/readers. Again, creating awareness for your company and its offerings along with incoming traffic and backlinks.

  • Write thank you notes
    Want to really connect with your clients?  Take a moment to write a thank you note or two.  Perhaps, even make a few personal phone calls thanking them for their business.  Making an impact in your clients lives will go a long way.  Referrals cost nothing and produce tremendous returns.

  • Build your online network(s)
    Make a goal to add a specific number of people to each of your social networks per week.  Hold yourself accountable.  Those connections may be struggling financially too, but this season will differentiate between the quitters - the ones who give up when times are difficult - and the ones who push through the difficult times.  Which group would you want to do business with?

  • Get involved
    Get your company involved with a local charity organization and make an impact in your community.  Not only will you change your community, but you'll also change the culture and attitude of your company.  You want to develop leaders?  Develop servants first.

  • Get creative
    Times like these force companies to develop niches.  Perhaps this is the chance for your company to surpass the competition in your market by offering a new product or service.  Kickstart your "creative juices" and begin brainstorming.

  • Don't quit
    You're already doing something right by showing up.  Now that you're here, keep going.