8 Ways to Stay Marketing-Minded During a Recession

Okay, I admit it. Although I am typically quite optimistic, some days, this economy can really get me down. The building industry has taken a big hit in this recession we're in. But, we know with time, this season of crisis will pass.

 

 

So if projects in your office have slowed or if you've been laid-off, continue to work toward your goals, develop and review your personal and professional marketing objectives, and stay in top shape - physically, mentally and work-wise - so you're ready for those new projects and deals coming your way.

 

 

1. Stay on a regular work schedule.

Wake up as if you have a number of clients to keep happy at the office. It's easy to sleep in for a while and treat your first few days (or weeks) as a vacation, but you must remain on task: continuing to look for new projects or a new position.

 

 

2. Don't isolate yourself.

Make regular appointments to meet with colleagues to discuss job and project possibilities. If you're a designer, or if you specify products, make regular showroom visits to stay current.

 

 

3. Boost your ego.

Make a list of all of your skills and qualifications, even if they are not directly related to your profession or the services you currently offer. Next, develop a plan to articulate how these skill sets can benefit others. When you're going after that next job or project, you don't want to go in with the attitude, "How can you help me?" rather "How can I help you?"

 

4. Learn new skills.

Download free software such as Google SketchUp. Or locate live classes for other interests through Meetup.com or other social networking sites.

 

 

5. Write about the things you know on a blog, whether it's your profession or a hobby. Include a link to your site as part of your e-mail signature.

 

 

6. Take advantage of free education.

Many trade publication sites offer free webinars, training videos, and articles for continuing education units.

 

 

7. Explore all the possibilities.

What's your passion? If you were not in your current profession what would you do? Determine how you can relate what you really love to what you do for a living.

 

 

8. Volunteer.

Nothing can make you forget about your temporary troubles quicker than helping someone else. Teaching a student math or a construction skill, or building a house with Habitat for Humanity can benefit your community as well as your resume.

 

A recessive economy doesn't have to mean idle time. Create a job for yourself and become the building industry professional you aspire to be.

 

By Karen A. Davis

Image by Fotum

  

Karen A. Davis has over 20 years experience in the architecture, construction and facilities management fields. She is founder and president of Building Industry Resources - http://www.buildingsource.net - a company that provides business development and technical support services, and managing partner with KARMIS, LLC, a construction and facilities consulting firm. Ms. Davis is also a college instructor and author.

 

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