Here are a few marketing mistakes to avoid for the current market in 2008!!
1. Don't assume the future will duplicate the past. Last year's clever marketing ideas may be ineffective in today's market. This might sound like a simple idea or even a non-brainer, however, some things that WERE GOLDMINES in the past few years might be "depleted" in our current market. Each market is different, be realistic when spending your marketing dollars.
2. Don't follow the herd. What works for the top producer down the hall or at the competitor's office might not be appropriate for you. Take the time to review your market and what is forecast to happen in your market in the next few quarters. Remember knowledge is potential power. USE the knowledge and make it work for you, not against you.
3. Don't stretch beyond your time and financial resources. It will only lead to frustration, anger, possible financial burdens, and possibly even a decline in business.
4. Don't let market conditions dictate your marketing efforts. Personal marketing should be done consistently, good times or bad. ALWAYS REMEMBER, THE MARKET IS TRULY IN YOUR MIND. For me this is NON DEBATEABLE!
5. Don't stuff your plan in a file and forget about it. Both your marketing and business plan is a blueprint for achieving your goals, not an end result. Look at your plans daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly. Review and revise when appropriate. By reviewing them often, you stay motivated and you are constantly reminded of where you should be and where you are going. THIS IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL MAP.
6. Don't reuse the same plan year after year. You'll need to expand your efforts as your business grows. Each year I place new expectations on myself whether it is marketing out side my current radius, increasing my number of contacts per day, increasing my overall GCI, or something as simple as reading an inspirational book once per month.
If you take anything away from this post, take with you the idea that you should not continue to do the same old thing year after year, take a risk on the roller coaster and see where the ride takes you. You might be very surprised!!!
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