Singing the Economy Blues?

Singing the Economy Blues? Here we are at the end of the first quarter in a New Year with an economy that holds unpredictability as the only thing predictable! You don't have to Sing the Economy Blues if you have a solid business foundation and are willing to try a new tune. But how far do you have to take change? Is that more of a percussion section or can a soloist fill the need? For established business that means: 1)  having a solid business plan. It may be time to review your business plan and see if you are heading the way your business plan is directing. Is your business still "whistling while you work?" or is it time to orchestrate a new symphony? A change in tune may be in order. Change is good and a must for this economy. Take it slow and don't try to change too many things all at once. Give your new plan a chance to weather the economy. 2) check your marketing plan. What was working last year may not be the way to go this year. It definitely isn't the time to cut back on your marketing. It's more important than ever to let your customer know you are still here, and plan to be. Jazz it up some by considering new ways to reallocate your dollars to work more effectively. Try one new type of marketing at a time and see how it plays out. 3) keep your sales force intact and busy. Your sales force is more than the people you pay specifically to "sell" your product or service. Every member of your company sells to someone. It may not be directly to your end consumer, but from department to department. Bring your employees together to think of new and creative ways to repackage or repurpose your or product to sell in a new way. Sing in two-part harmony. Just this one act could greatly increase your sales profit. For the newer or start up business it means: 1) writing your vision or mission statement. Make sure you refer to your mission or vision statement as you establish your business practices. This will serve to reinforce your brand to your clients  while you can be confident you are projecting your image or brand. Your vision statement will also help to keep employees focused on just how they fit in the big picture while everyone works together to 'rock steady'.  2) give and get support from others. You may consider a Master Mind group, your local chamber, on-line and off-line networking groups, and industry specific organizations. Each area in which you network, volunteer or mentor will enrich your life and business. When you help others you in turn help yourself as well. Having a range of voices makes your song richer and fuller. 3) be creative. Try a Rock Opera! Take a time tested way of doing business and give it a new twist. A thank you note is a wonderful way to connect with a client, but what impression would a singing telegram (or thank you note) make? 4) join forces. Consider aligning yourself with another business that is complementary to what you do, or better yet think of a joint venture. Make sure that this partnership benefits both of you as well as the customer you are serving. This is how you hit a new chord or boost your business up an octive! Set your self apart. Blaze a trail! Be unique in the way you do business, from the way you promote yourself to the product or service you sell. Now is the perfect time to step out and be seen. Let others sing the Economy Blues, you be the Rock Star! 2009-03-12T19:27:21Z