You’re not hearing it on the news much, but you know it firsthand. Many businesses are hedging their bets while they wait to see how the current economic landscape plays out before hiring more employees. Some businesses are already executing layoffs or thinking about it while political ping pong is played on the definition of “recession”. Yet, the waiting game isn’t going to help your business stay profitable and relevant when you need exposure now more than ever.
Before you decide to don footed pajamas and mainline Netflix to distract yourself from these turbulent times, there are some cost-effective, tried-and-true tactics you can employ to stay at the forefront with your customers.
Social Media is Your Friend
Leverage this now more than ever as a free platform to connect with customers – current and potential. One and done won’t work though. The trick is to post regularly to your followers with engaging content (images, short blurbs, videos, special offers, etc.) Whether it’s your own content or things you share from other companies or customers that are relevant to your customer base, give ‘em a reason to like, share and come back for more.
Let’s Talk About You
How are people going to know what’s up with your company if you’re not talking about it? Whether you dole it out via email or blog it, informing customers about new products, services, or just general tips and tricks that are useful to their day-to-day lives is essential for instilling customer interest and loyalty.
Websites Aren’t Chiseled in Stone
Make sure that your website is updated regularly with relevant content and information that will help folks understand why they should choose you over any competitors out there. Spending time to shine a good light on your business now will pay off later.
Bite the Bullet – Hire an Agency
This isn’t as lofty or unattainable as it sounds. Truth is, you can get affordable help to fill the holes you just can’t get to. From ala carte to more comprehensive solutions, add the temporary help you need to get the job done. Just think of it as “Employee Lite” – no overhead, but streamlined and effective expertise and support.
For example, if you’re struggling with getting enough content for your blog or social media channels, consider hiring someone who specializes in writing content for businesses like yours. They’ll know how to tailor the message so that it resonates with your audience.
Or maybe you have a product launch or a particularly large project coming up and you just don’t have the juice to get it done. Consider outsourcing some of your content needs – whether it’s product documentation, collateral or lead gen campaigns, there’s effective, cost-friendly support out there to help you achieve your ultimate goals.
If done right, procuring an agency will pay for itself by driving increased awareness and sales for your business or by offloading you so you can focus on what you’re best at.
Embrace the Cray
In an economic downturn, resist the temptation to do nothing, preserve funds, and ride it out. Rather, lean into this mess armed with what you need to surf through it. It’s more important now than ever to extend your reach and drive exposure for your business to stay relevant and competitive in this whacky landscape.
– The Trident Team