What to do When the Phones Stop Ringing!
By Dianne McGarey, CMP Executive Director / TEAM Net
OK, so business is slow and you need more cash flow to make things work! Here are a few things I’ve found to be helpful in my own efforts as a meeting and event consultant:
1. Focus on the basics. There is nothing like calling 20 people a day (old clients as well as prospective new ones) to get the blood pumping again during a slow business cycle. Each call need not last more than a couple of minutes . . just enough to let that person know you are alive and well, and eager to do business. You’ll be amazed at how many face-to-face meetings this can lead to!
2. Gather your troops for a day of brainstorming. This can be fun and inexpensive, while opening the door for all kinds of new ideas. Be open to suggestions from everyone in your organization. Frustration at any level is an opportunity to improve. Our company was able to come up with several money-saving ideas by simply standardizing our method of operation on the clerical and accounting end.
3. Set some reasonable and measurable goals for the next 3, 6, and 9-month intervals. Once goals have been set, insure you stay on target by establishing accountability partners. This is especially important if you are self-employed or working in a small organization of 10 people or less.
4. Be visible! Take advantage of industry luncheons, special interest groups, educational retreats, and conventions. Remember the old adage “out of sight, out of mind!”
5. Update your database and start an organized marketing campaign that keeps your name in front of your clients. Give them ideas and opportunities to expand the amount and kind of business they do with you each year.
6. Take the extra time you have on your hands to upgrade your website, making sure all key words are submitted to the major search engines. A “Hot Tips” page is great for creating content-rich information that will encourage repeat visits!
For more information call (770) 446-9498 Or e-mail dmcgarey@mindspring.com
