Earlier in the year, the phrase “How are you?” really seemed to have a different meaning. A traditional greeting, a friendly check in, something you may say to your neighbor while walking the dog in the morning. However, since things have changed so rapidly over the past few months, the simple phrase “How are you?” carries more weight. This year has brought a global health pandemic and has shined a spotlight on social injustice, and these most important issues have certainly weighed heavy on everyone’s minds, bringing a broad range of emotions. When you now ask “How are you?” to your family, friends and colleagues these days, you truly want to know – HOW. ARE. YOU? Are you feeling healthy, both physically and mentally? Are you coping with the turbulence over the past few months? Have you taken some time to care for yourself while you take care of everyone else? We wanted to take a moment and check in with our clients and colleagues and wish the best for you and your loved ones.
What Does This Have to Do With Business?
You may ask why we have chosen to send this newsletter now, and what any of this has to do with business (which is a fair question). At AJA Marketing, we believe business is built on relationships. I founded AJA Marketing 6 years ago with integrity and accountability as the cornerstones of its foundation, and the belief that building relationships and maintaining a healthy network is integral for any successful business – large or small. That precept has not faltered during the last 6 years, and during these past few months, we have actually seen an INCREASE in networking and unique opportunities. Virtual networking has broken barriers of geography and increased connectivity to people, organizations and businesses which may have been previously overlooked during the traditional ways of doing business.
But Shouldn’t I Wait Until a “Better Time” to Market and Build My Business?
Many professional services providers, associations, and small business alike have been hesitant to market. While it may not feel like now is a good time to promote yourself or your business – it is absolutely necessary. We have learned from history – most recently, from the Great Recession of 2008 – that you must remain relevant and continue to market during a downturn. Additionally, you must take a hard look at your current strategy and reassess.
While no one cannot predict what the “new normal” will look like, or what the rest of 2020 will send our way, we remain hopeful for our collective future. We must also live in the present and continue to move forward. We encourage our clients to seek new opportunities in the midst of challenge, to pivot and evolve to meet their clients’ needs. For those open to new ways of executing – and taking precise action, success is available!
We are open for business if you are seeking a fresh perspective or would like to discuss your current strategy – don’t hesitate to reach out.
