There has not been a single, documented incident, since the dawn of Mankind, of the sky actually falling out of…the sky.

Based on such irrefutable and scientific evidence, Girl Friday does hereby declare that now is not the time for small businesses to buy into the story of Chicken Little…oh no! This is the time for optimism, courage, and action! Your perception and positive attitude can really help you, and your colleagues and clients, during this economic hiccup. Try to think long term…so, turn off the TV , don’t panic, and take a deep breath, Bonky.

Here’s what you can do today to shore up your business during lean times:

  1. You need to cut costs during lean times, but not investments in your brand. Customers are searching for value right now. Let the world know what makes your brand a good value. Your message will be heard above all those who’ve cut back their marketing budgets. You’ll be the smart cookie, that’s for sure!!
  2. Bring your new marketing investment into the 21st century by embracing In-Bound marketing techniques (here we go again!). Now’s the time to invest in:
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    1. A blog – positioning yourself and your company as an expert in your field brings new traffic to your site. It’s cost effective, and, if you are consistent with it, can bring some quick results. Girl Friday recently married her website to her blog. They are living happily ever after in Search Optimization Heaven.
    2. Social Media - don’t underestimate the power of Facebook, Linked-In, Twitter and other social and industry-specific sites and forums. They target your message to like-minded people who are looking for connections. That’s the whole point, Dexter!! It’s very time-consuming, but pays off. And, of course, Girl Friday can help you with it! Just ask her!
    3. Search Engine Optimization – this is a fancy phrase for updating your site. Upgrading the content on the front pages to contain industry-specific keywords is crucial; it’s more important than all the technical stuff that goes on behind the scenes (although that needs to be done, too). This is a long-term strategic tool but pays off in the long-run. Girl Friday performs this service for clients…find out how!
    4. Keep in touch with clients, and ask for referrals: Holidays are coming up. Take the opportunity to send a personal Thank You message, a short blurb about your company offerings/services, and an optimistic statement about the future – in a custom-designed holiday or end of the year greeting card or postcard. Girl Friday can custom design and mail your company greeting cards for you (of course!). A custom-designed greeting card or postcard will stand out from the generic holiday greetings. Make sure to follow up with a personal phone call after the holidays.
    5. Partner with other businesses: – when times are lean, everyone feels it. And no one wins when companies go bust, restaurants close their doors, services are discontinued. If you can partner on projects with other businesses, they will reciprocate. Far better to share the work then try to cut others out. You never know when you might need that helping hand.

Most important: whichever way you choose to invest in your business today, try to stay as upbeat and optimistic as possible. You’re enthusiasm and confidence will encourage your current clients, and draw new clients to you.

For information on how Girl Friday and her business allies can help you Market your way through challenging times, send her an email at: elaine@e-girlfriday.com.