While all of my US counterparts are recovering from their Turkey hangover, I'm sitting in rainy Vancouver, BC and thinking about the year to come. Predictions are starting to pop up all over the web, but one struck me as particularly poignant, and gave me enough pause that I felt compelled to comment.
Max discusses the need for businesses to trim back their strategies in 2009, and focus more on their purpose. I couldn't agree more. People are ready for change, and not just in your President Elect.
The advertising industry is experiencing budget cuts, partially due to the economy, but I can't help but think that it has something to do with this age of transparency and honesty. People are tired of the spin being pushed at them, and anytime a company isn't completely honest with their consumers, they get called to the mat, loudly and publicly.
2009 is going to signal change in many industries and businesses need to change the way they function if they're going to survive and succeed. So, what are the fundamental pieces your business needs to focus on in the upcoming year?
Pare back your strategies. Business does not have to be complicated. You don't have to have a complicated strategy in order to reach your customers.
Increase your purpose. What is the point of your business? Can you, or better yet, your employees explain accurately what it is you do and why others should join your company or purchase your product or service? Why do you exist?
Come back to your core values. What were the values you upheld when you began your business? Are you still true to them today or have you let them slide in the face of striving to succeed?
Increase your social media interaction, or - god forbid - if you're not involved in social media yet, get there, and get there now. The advertising industry has changed dramatically. The PR industry isn't the same, and media is in a constant state of flux and change. Your competition will leave you in a cloud of honesty, transparency, and brilliant, yet subtle, salesmanship.
What are your plans/predictions for business in the coming year? Add your thoughts in the comments and I'll add them to my list and credit you.