Since the business environment is more competitive than ever, those who stop spending may stop selling.  Those who take their precious money and spend wisely can and will survive and potentially survive.  Here are some examples of how the right brand strategy and brand implementation can help.
1. Position yourself to be the best in your space.
2. Communicate value and why your customers should buy you, your product, or your services over your competition.
3. Focus your money on revenue- generating activities:
           - Lead generation
           - Expansion within current customers
           - Expansion within market segments you have experience in
4. Network your ass off. Meet people who are in need of what you have to offer.
5. Make sure you have enough touches (usually 7-12) with your clients, suspects and prospects to reach your goals and objectives.
6. Pick up the phone and call people.
7. Be pro-active and plan to excel, not just survive.

Do these things and you'll be around, so when the market picks back up, you'll be way ahead of your competition.

<em>Written by Michael Doyle, Brand Iron President</em>