February issue

Headlines

	Crunch time for creatives
	Take action and sail through choppy waters
	Caught your attention?

Other news

Bespoke and corporate waistcoat maker and The Groom get covered in the Yorkshire Evening Post. More>>

MSL Legal Expenses starts the year with some business wins. Coverage in the insurance and business press. More>> 

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Crunch time for creatives

Still OK to say Happy New Year? Though so.

Given the state of the economy, perhaps happy is a bit too optimistic. Most will feel the pinch this year and the creative industry is not exempt from the downturn. Here are some ideas on how firms can use their insight and skills to adapt to the conditions.
 

• Testing times for the creative and communication industry. It’s going to be a rough ride for creative service providers in 2009. Read on to find out about ways to survive. More>>
   

Take action and sail through choppy waters

In the current downturn, here are four steps your company should consider now: 
 

1. Invest in research and development so that new products and services are ready for launch as the economy begins to grow again. Your competitors will be inclined to cut R&D, particularly if they face high interest payments and drops in revenue. If so, your approach will yield a strong product advantage when recovery returns.
2. Learn about the customers of your weakest competitors. You might be inclined to go after their largest and most attractive clients. However, be aware that your rivals are probably working desperately to save those customers. They might not, however, have the time and resources to focus on smaller clients. Focus your attention on these potential new customers, particularly those with attractive growth prospects and strong balance sheets.
3. Identify your most critical suppliers and distributors, and determine if any face the possibility of severe impairment to their business due to the economic downturn. Assess the risk to your business if they should falter badly or even fail completely. Then, examine ways in which you might help those supplies and distributors weather the downturn. Even the smallest gesture can sometimes build an enduring loyalty that will pay off for years to come.
4. Think carefully about your talent needs. As weak companies lay off employees, many good people will find themselves searching for work. Other skilled workers may still have a job, but they may be disenchanted with their struggling firms. Capitalise on this opportunity to identify and attract talented employees, while slack exists in the labour market.

(Edited version of Four Steps To Growth During A Recession by Michael Robertois, Harvard Business Publishing.)

Caught your attention?

Even though Sarah Palin’s image (remember her?) was manipulated in the studio it could have reinforced doubts the US public had about the 'soccer' mum’s candidacy for vice-president.
This doctored photo spread like a virus across social networks and was emailed to millions of Americans – making Mrs P a joke candidate. 
So, why are we showing you this? Apart from making us laugh, It shows the power of imagery and how reputation is hard fought and easily lost.
We understand the power of presentation and how vital it is to put across a professional image. With access to some fine photographers and designers we can look at how your firm sets itself out to the market and help get your message across. Just call us to find out how we can help.