Cause for Optimism

Good News! Economists with the Institute for Trend Research predict that 2012 is going to be a year of recovery and economic expansion in the US. Whew! Finally.

How do economists know that?

The Institute for Trend Research is the oldest, privately-held, continuously operating economic research and consulting firm in the United States. The organization predicts future economic trends with 96% accuracy and provides action plans for capitalizing on business cycle fluctuations and outperforming competitors. The Rally team attended a webinar with ITR economists as part of a peer group experience.

The economists said that trends indicate the economy will continue to improve through the first half of 2013, but will slow down in the second half of 2013. They predict a possible recession in 2014, though not nearly as severe as 2008. They predict 2015-17 to be years of growth as well.

What does that mean for business?

Businesses should take advantage of the positive climate in 2012-2013 but need to be mindful of 2014, the economists shared. Regarding preparation for 2014, ITR suggests that businesses should “grow market share . . . make sure you have enough cash and make sure your credit lines are where they ought to be.”

How do you make sure you have enough cash? Sell more stuff.

How do you sell more stuff? Market more aggressively.

Invest in marketing programs that will raise awareness, position you as the expert in your field, and strengthen customer loyalty. Drip marketing programs can help you take advantage of your prospect’s inbox to communicate directly, ensuring you have their attention. The sales cycle will still be lengthy, so start these programs in the first quarter, and make sure you have a large enough database to be fruitful.

Even though we’re just entering 2012, it’s not too early to be thinking about how you’re going to leave 2012.

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