Well the long-lazy days of summer are more or less over, along with the end of summer slump many of us feel in our businesses. I have always found that a couple of weeks before school starts that my business often slumps. Parents suddenly get engrossed in getting those last minute appointments done with their children and getting supplies and clothes ready to get the children on the right track for the fall. This can make for a very slow time for some businesses.
Instead of panicking, start gearing up for the fall. Plan some seminars, parties, networking events or anything that will generate interest in a new season. If possible try to concentrate on a different segment of your market. You may find that when Moms and Dads have little time to listen to you, maybe you can concentrate on a different group, like seniors or empty-nesters. Whatever your product or service is, know all your market segments and when the best time is to market to them.
Another trick is to think about the seasons that lie just beyond the start of school. Think Christmas specials and other opportunities to interest people in your business once the children are safely in school and parents begin to turn to the next big thing in their lives.
Not every business experiences this particular down time, but all business goes through slumps from time-to-time. The key is not to panic and worry, but to plan for when the slump turns around and be ready to hit the ground running. Take note of what kinds of activities that create business during down times and be ready to re-create them when necessary.
We all have down times, what makes successful people stand out and remain on top is they are prepared to handle those times and they don’t panic unnecessarily. As with everything, the old adage, “use your time wisely” is appropriate to this discussion. Being proactive, instead of reactive, is key to staying calm and positive while others panic.
