Monday, November 3, 2008

Stopping the Clock to Save Time



“A man who stops advertising to save money is like a man who stops a clock to save time.”
– Henry Ford

I recently spoke with several builders and dealers who have wholly eliminated their marketing budgets; some even shedding their marketing departments entirely. Whether these cuts were made simply to reduce fixed overhead or essential to ensuring the company’s survival through today’s market downturn, there is no doubt that investing in the right marketing initiatives now will yield dramatic returns. Now is not the time to cut and run on your marketing budget… now is the time to seek out and exploit the new opportunities created by these times.

Customers Are Hunting
When the economy dips and consumers move into a state of fear, product purchases get scrutinized and long-term brand loyalties are challenged. Now is the time for you to be visible, not hiding behind your desk.

Your Competition Is Hiding
When your competitors eliminate their marketing efforts, the landscape is no longer as crowded. This increases the probability of your marketing messages getting noticed. Now is the time to become the most recognized name in your category.

Bargains Abound
As more and more companies pull back on their advertising, marketing outlets feel the pinch and reduce their rates. This puts you in a position of strength to drive a harder bargain and get more for less. Now is the time to get more from your marketing investment.

Becoming Top of Mind
Being out of sight means you’re likely out of mind; and being out of mind today can mean out of business tomorrow. Familiarity breeds preference and preference leads to long term customer loyalty. Now is the time to more efficiently secure top of mind awareness and long term customer loyalty... for less.

These times may be tough but they are also opportunistic. Now is the time to crank up the volume!

We have defined and managed effective strategic marketing initiatives since 1997 realizing exponential growth and even greater returns on investment. Are you ready to take advantage of these opportunistic times? Then call 888.836.8567 or contact us by clicking here for a FREE consultation.