As a home business owner, it’s hard not to get a little nervous when the headlines continuously predict gloom and doom in the market. Are we in a recession? Are consumers shutting down their spending? Will your customers trim budgets? It’s hard to keep from completely wigging out. So what can you do? When the economy shows signs of weakness, it’s the perfect time to step up your marketing. And there are plenty of ways to do this without having to fork over thousands of dollars. Here are some marketing tips to help you get focused and keeping your business name and products out there in the minds of your clients: Keep an idea file. Whenever you see a great advertisement, a unique brochure or an effective marketing technique, make notes or save copies and keep them in a file. When you are in need of a good idea, dive in and use these samples to brainstorm for your own marketing strategies. Step it up. Think of a new service or product that you can introduce to update your offerings. Keep your company fresh, current, and communicate your updates to current and potential customers. Get help. Tap into the knowledge of community professionals that can serve as a marketing advisory team. Seek the advice of those who know the market, and continually educate yourself by attending seminars or other professional events. Formulate a budget. Take a good look at your finances, and decide how much you are willing to spend on marketing. Once you know, then decide what marketing approach will get you the most bang for your buck. Put yourself out there. When consumer spending is down, you need to try and keep your name and company services out in the public eye. This is a great time to create a newsletter and send it to your customers. Make sure your Web site is current and informative. Get involved in a fundraiser or community event that will take your time but not your money. Volunteer with an organization that can give you new exposure to a different market. Bump up customer service. Whatever you do, don’t let your anxiety about your business translate into unreturned phone calls or forgotten customers. Make sure that each and every interaction you have with the public shows courtesy, service and attention to detail. You can’t afford to give off a bad impression. Update your press kit. Make sure that your press kit (and you should have one) is updated with any new information regarding yourself, your products and services, or business success stories. Get creative and think outside of the box. Make something happen. This is a great time to hold an open house, or do something you’ve always wanted to do, like speak at a community event. Write a column for your local business journal or newspaper, and promote yourself as an expert in your field. When the economy is slow, it can be a nervous time for everyone. But if you take some proactive steps to stay in touch with your customers and promote your business, you can keep your name out there and keep the flow of business coming. | 
