Is your company stuck in a rut? Are you adverse to change? Do you have the attitude … we’ve always done it that way? Well, you’re not alone. Many established companies are not nimble enough to take their marketing to the next level. But, what I’m really surprised about is that many start-up companies also are not taking advantage of some of the latest marketing tools available.
Yes, as you know, I am an advocate of planning and actually putting a marketing plan into writing. But, some companies feel this is only an annual task and then put their plan in a drawer only to revisit it the following year. A marketing plan needs to evolve during the year. You need to be able to react to your competition. If a great opportunity is presented to you, you should take the challenge and rework your budget and plan to take advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity.
I’m also quite stunned to see how many companies still have not embraced social media or even public relations. I think there is a fear that someone might say something “bad” about their company. Chances are people are already making negative statements somewhere. But, I would rather know about it and be able to control it and nip it in the bud. Some of your worst critics can turn into your best supporters if you handle the situation properly and in an expedient timeframe. Social media is one of the best ways to keep abreast of what your customers are saying about your company.
Marketing is all about adapting your message, flexing your plan, and evolving your products to meet the market needs. If you don’t evaluate where you are and you don’t have a plan for the future, you’ll be like a boat without a rudder and will be spinning out of control.
