The Opportunity We Have Right Now

The previous post was about how to market in an economic downturn, and it emphasized keeping a keen eye out for new opportunities. Well, I think I see a window of opportunity for those of you in sales and marketing – something you can seize upon right now.

You have undoubtedly noticed how the wheels of commerce have slowed way down recently. Companies are cutting budgets or just not spending. Investments are deferred. The world seems to be taking a "wait and see" approach in this tumultuous economic environment, like a temporary paralysis.

So what are people doing while they wait and see? After following up with some prospects yesterday, I realized the answer is not much, or certainly less than they were six months ago. People aren't as busy, so they have time to chat and respond. If you are in sales, you know how important it is to make connections and build rapport. It's part of the sales process. What better time to do it than when people aren't busy and have time on their hands.

Even if you don't make the sale today, when things pick up again, which they eventually will, guess who will be top of mind?

P.S. Don't hesitate to forward these posts to your friends and colleagues. The more readers, the merrier!

P.P.S. The next Apropos Marketing Foundation Workshop is scheduled for February 17, 2009. Sign up here!