Surviving 2024: Marketing Systems to the Rescue!
It's June, and the Economy is...Weird
If you’re reading this in the future, perhaps the world has changed. But right now, it’s a stressful time for many. So, we wanted to focus on what we call our “heart-centred” clients—those owner-operated small businesses that often find their way to LeftTurn, seeking broad support in all things marketing and strategic planning.
Lead Generation: Where Did All the Referrals Go?
In our discussions with clients, lead generation is always top of mind. What worked for you before—referrals, repeat clients—might not be working as well now. What happens when your word-of-mouth pipeline dries up?
- Evaluate Your Systems: Do you have a marketing system in place? If your business has relied heavily on word-of-mouth, it’s time to implement or tighten up your marketing systems. Think CRM, content calendars, and digital marketing tools.
- Digital Presence: More people are online than ever. Is your website, social media, and overall digital ecosystem working as hard as it can? Now’s the time to ensure you’re capturing leads efficiently.
Simple, Effective Systems
We recently worked with a client who thought they needed a new system. It turned out they already had a great one—they just weren’t using 90% of its features. Before investing in new tools, evaluate what you already have and ensure you use them to their full potential.
- CRM Systems: The key is consistency, whether you use a sophisticated CRM or a simple Excel sheet. Make sure you capture all client and prospect information and regularly review it.
- Operational Processes: What happens after you meet a prospect? Ensure you have a streamlined process for follow-up, whether that’s through automated emails or personal check-ins.
Support: You're Not Alone
When times are tough, it’s tempting to cut back on expenses. But think about the support you need to keep moving forward. This could be:
- Hiring an Agency: Shameless plug alert —we can help!
- Summer Students or Interns: They can handle data entry, organize CRM systems, and support your marketing efforts.
Wrapping Up: The 3 S's
Remember the 3 S’s: Simple, Systems, and Support.
Keep it simple, make sure you have a system, and ensure you have the support you need.
Tightening these areas can significantly improve our owners’/operators’ ability to navigate the current economic landscape.
Have Questions? Reach Out!
If you have any questions or want to dive deeper into your marketing ecosystem, listen to Episode 14, Part 1 of the Turning Left Podcast, Navigating The Economy As An Owner/Operator Business on Apple or Spotify, or book a call with our leadership team. We’re here to chat about anything—brand, content, digital marketing, you name it. And if you want to work together, even better.