subject: Creative Marketing in a Bad Economy [print this page] I watch Fox News every eveningI watch Fox News every evening. OK I am addicted, I admit it. Unfortunately, the economic news has not been very uplifting lately. Every economist seems to have a different take on what we are experiencing. But what we can ALL agree on is this one simple statement the economy is not good. Kind of depressing? For small businesses or email and internet marketers that advertise and sell online, there is a light at the end of the tunnel the news is not so dark.
This will be a good time to take a look at what people are talking about on the Social Networks. Surf around on Facebook and Twitter. Google blog posts for subjects that deal with your market niche. What are the problems and concerns that are being voiced?
Offer Solutions that Meet a Need
Can you offer solutions and help? Start spreading your internet voice and solve some problems for your clients and prospects that the current economy has created. Are you up to and ready for a challenge?
Everyone loves tips on how to save money and time. In our years of experience and just living, all of us are experts in something. Sharing your expertise and experience, without an agenda to sell, just might bring in an unexpected return.
The Economy is not a Crutch or an Excuse for Failure
Bad news is everyone and is affecting everyone. It is times like this that you must rally within yourself and start your creative juices flowing. Your goal is to be a catalyst continuing to create interest in your services and products.
People are under a great deal of stress these days. They are worried about their futures and hoping for better days. So, here are some helpful suggestions to get you on a positive path towards creating more opportunities to be seen and get noticed in a difficult economy:
Existing Customers are Crucial for Sustainability
AllB2B and B2C businesses know that turning prospects into clients take time, planning, and trust. But once you have created that trust, it is priceless. The reason we exist is not because of a one-time sale, closeout, or discounted item. The reason we can pay our bills is totally dependent upon our existing and repeat customers.
We all know how important building our customer base is. But keeping your customers happy and satisfied is even more important.
Showing your appreciation to them, in tangible ways, will not only give them a lift, but keep you and your brand alive and in the front of their minds.
The Element of Surprise
Do you have a newsletter that you send out? If you don't, this would be an opportune time to do so. How about offering a special deal or discount, just to your loyal repeat clients? In a bad economy, any kind of valuable offer will be appreciated.
Reach out in a personal way. Bring people in behind the scenes of your company. An event, a promotion, or just some interesting comments from you on a personal note. Let people know your voice.
Whenever I see a movie that I love, I always look for a special presentation called: "Behind the Scenes" - of that particular movie. I find it fascinating to be able to find out what went on during the filming. The stories are so interesting. You start to feel that you know the actors and directors personally.
Be Generous in an Ungenerous Age
Donate some of your specials to a worthwhile charity. People tend to have more respect for those organizations that give to worthwhile causes. Don't be surprised how wonderfully that will affect you and all those who work for you.
Create a Team Spirit
The most underutilized part of an organization is its employees. Mangers and executives tend to forget that the "underlings" are on the same ship, weathering the same storm and trust me, they don't want to drown.
Call for a power meeting in your board or conference room. Shock your entire staff by sending out an internal email request, asking for some creative ideas for your marketing mix. This is a win-win. You will probably get some interesting responses but most of all, you have let them know that they are integral to your survival, and you have just created genuine loyalty and trust within your own organization.
Reality Check - Get out There
The same old just won't work anymore. Use this time to re-think, re-plan and re-structure. Dare to be different, and determine to be creative. This is a good time to not only step out of the box, but to break the box open, completely.
