Here Hannah Whale, the founder of Manchester-based Whale Marketing, gives her seven top tips to ensure that your business doesn’t become an endangered species during the current recession.
Whale: common sense tips
The Message
Whatever your message it needs to be clear, concise and something your potential client wants to hear. Messages don’t always need to be an offer or information about a new product or service; it could be educational and informative.
Especially in times when budgets are being cut, businesses appreciate something of value rather than the hard sell.
The Plan
Before embarking on a new marketing campaign think about your objectives. What will make a real difference to your business?
Agree KPI’s (key performance indicators) and how they will be measured, this will ensure a return on investment for your marketing spend. For example, when cold calling what information does your sales rep need to record and how frequently does this need to be monitored? Marketing activity needs to be consistent otherwise your initial message will be forgotten.
The Client
Buck the trend
In difficult times, the biggest mistake you could make is forgetting your current clients and focusing solely on new prospects. Over service them, hold their hand and guide them through; you will reap the benefits in the future.
Contact old customers and tell them how much you miss them and want to work with them again! It’s the perfect opportunity to discuss the breakdown in communication/relationship. According to McGraw Hill, 67% of clients are lost simply due to lack of contact or indifference!
The Prospects
Make sure that you regularly call your prospects, for best results at least once every 6 weeks, each time change your message, send them something different and most importantly of value!
Don’t call just anyone though. Make sure your list is carefully targeted and you’re contacting the right people for you, and at the right time. Think about those people least likely to be effected by the downturn.
Also look at your current client list; do you have several clients in a certain sector that you could promote as an area of expertise?
The Communication
E-shots are a cheap and cheerful way of getting your name out there; however this shouldn’t be your only way of communication.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, broaden your method of communication and appeal to prospects via different methods e.g. brochures, case studies, leaflets, PR, letters, web… the list is endless!
The main point is to follow up, countless campaigns fail without this second hit. A personal phone call is proven to be the best method.
The Integrated Approach
No matter what the economic climate, an integrated and balanced marketing approach should always be adapted. A mix of mediums and messages will keep your prospects on their toes and interested!
The Networking
Don’t forget everyone is in the same boat! Networking is a great method of finding out how other companies are coping and you’ll pick up tips and ideas along the way. Despite the downturn still give and request referrals, it may turn out to be a lifesaver!
The most comprehensive ever review and assessment of the top communicators and marketers working in public services in the North West: the Public Sector 100. READ
The North West’s top marketing folk who collectively control marketing expenditure in excess of £500m and whose endeavours help sustain tens of thousands of jobs. READ
The full listing of How-Do's Media 100. The 2009 list in its entirety, offers the definitive compilation of the most influential and powerful media, creative and digital folk based in the North West. READ
The How-Do poll
Latest comments
Mike Flex: And as they say, from the ashes the Phoenix rises...
READ
Mike Flex: So Channel M reverts back to its original RSL/Plowright model. Think it's a...
READ
Mr Drivel: Hi watcher...2 + 2 is not 5.
Love the conspiracy theory but I suppose in y...
READ
Watcher: That's what happens when you have 10 year olds doing grown ups' jobs - they...
READ
Anon: Wow! Great news, so there is still a future for Channel M after all??
Salf...
READ
Watcher: How very neatly done. Year Zero at Channel M. Having thrown everyone bar th...
READ