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Ten Anti-Recession Strategies That Work...

By: Thom Reece

TEN ANTI-RECESSION STRATEGIES THAT WORK...

(c) Copyright 2004 Thom Reece All Rights Reserved

We've all been inundated lately with the popular press trying to convince us that we are either in a recession, headed that way, or trying to climb out of one.

Regardless of whether you choose to believe the media on this subject, there are still some simple strategies that you can use to make sure you survive and prosper during any downturn in the overall economy:

==> Think positively! Now that sounds like a trite and obvious statement on first view. But, when you give it some real thought, it makes sense that if you "buy-in" to the recession mentality you are already contributing to making a recession a reality. Don't allow yourself, or your staff, to fall prey to negative thinking. You must take a pro-active leadership roll in keeping your organization on a positive mind-set.

==> Run a lean organization! Re-evaluate every part of your business with a keen eye to eliminating the fat. Trim expenses in every way that makes sense.

==> Automate everything you can! Use technology to automate every process in your company. Order processing, fulfillment, e-mail follow-up, etc. etc. This leaves you more time to think about... and market...your business.

==> Use slow periods to brainstorm! If your business does slow down, don't waste the time fretting and fussing. Make that downtime productive by brainstorming new business opportunities, advancing your skill levels, learning and implementing new marketing techniques.

==> Increase your advertising! Yes, you heard me. Your ad budget is never the place to start cutting in order to save money. It is the last place! Advertising is "an investment in future profits". Start carving out increased market share now, while advertising can be bought cheap. If you need creative help...get it...from DM Pros.

==> Renegotiate existing co-ventures or ad contracts. You'll be amazed at what some of the major advertising outlets will do for you in tough times. Media is hurting for ad revenue and they are very willing to sharpen their pencil... but you have to ask them. Tell them what you are willing to pay and let them respond. Negotiate!!! One great way for media to enhance the deal in your favor is to offer free editorial content or feature article space. Ask for it!

==> Consider auctions for both buying and selling! Auction sites such as eBay, Amazon, etc. have millions of buyers and sellers. Become one of them. Move your overstocked merchandise through the auction venues. Don't forget you can also sell services at auction. If you are in the market for goods and services... save money by finding what you need in the auctions.

==> Add aggressive incentives & contests for your sales staff! Now is the time to break out your most creative incentive ideas and implement them. Get you sales staff moving. Hang out the carrot and watch your sales increase. Consider small promotional product giveaways to your clients to remind them you appreciate their business.
Resource: http://www.iPromoAmerica.com

==> Step up your use of free publicity! Start sending out more target news releases. Develop news angles for every part of your business and write them up in a simple press release. There are many online services that will distribute your release for free.

==> Think locally! That's right. Start networking at the local Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Lions Club, Computer Clubs, etc. etc. Ask to speak at your local organizations meetings.

About the author:

Thom Reece is the CEO and Senior Consultant of On-Line Marketing Group, a Hawaii based Direct Response Marketing & Sales Promotion consulting firm.

His website, the On-Line Marketing Resource Center ( ) is visited daily by thonds of marketers looking for free ideas, tips, and marketing resources. Thom can be reached by email at: mailto:thom@e-comprofits.com or by phone at: 808-929-7377.

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