I do alot of reading or investigating of what to do to market our business & our clients. There seems to be a continuous tone to the messages I see. This is….. don’t stop advertising, marketing, or keeping your face (personal & business) out there. The economy might be in a slowdown – but this is the worst time to pull back from letting people know you are there. On the other hand – this is when you MUST be out there! This is where the creativity comes into play… get creative, be persistent, be original & you will be noticed.

Here are some nuggets from one of the magazines I recently read:

Q: Why is marketing during an economic slowdown so important?
A: You want you target customer to be aware of you when their in the buying process. If you disappear from the radar, there’s no way for them to find your business or to think of you—it’s as simple as that. Commerce is still being done. there may not be as much potential business as a few years ago, but it’s still out there for those who make themselves available.

Q: What low-cost techniques can businesses employ?
A: E-mail marketing, can be cost efficient. If you’re going to build a database, people need to opt in—you don’t want to spam—and you need to send something that is relevant to them. And add a blog to your web site. It takes time & a commitment, but it’s an inexpensive way to market your business. Say thank you to your existing customers. Call your top 10 customers for no other reason. Six months from now, send them an e-mail, and remind them how much your appreciate their business. make them a special offer that only they are getting.

Q: Why is it important to market to current customers?
A: They know you. they love you and your poduct or service, and it’s a lot easier to keep existing business than to get new business. An it cost a lo less. Another benefit is they refer business to you.

Q: Should companies sitck with the messages they communicated about themselves in better times?
A: You always have to adapt to changing market conditions. Your core marketing message has to remain, but you have to speak to what’s important to your customers.

(excerpted from: “Marketing Expert Mary Shallies”. The Rotarian. August 2009.)

If you or your business should have questions or would like to discuss how to “get creative” for your marketing needs—call or e-mail us. We’d love to sit down & chat!!

Until the next time……..