So the economy has gone south for the summer and may have plans to stay there for a while. We all watched the sub prime debacle of last year give way to out of control fuel and food prices this year.
Today I heard that the only cars that are moving off lots are the itty bitty ones that get more than 30 miles to the gallon. Some people who have cars that are paid for are still jumping ship simply because they don’t want to pay so much for gas – even if it means a $250 a month (or more) car payment and higher taxes. It may not make sense to some, but the consumer is convinced this is a way they can manage their finances more efficiently.
Suddenly everyone’s seeing green and the fear of Chicken Little has placed trepidation in the hearts of the strongest of our species.
So what are we supposed to do? Plant a tree and hope the world comes to its senses?
Maybe, but if you’re looking to make money online it’s become important to market to Chicken Little. None of us know what the future holds and in many ways it just makes sense to be more responsible. When gas prices are heading toward $5.00 a gallon the regular ‘Little’ guy wants value and quality.
The bandwagon is full of jumpers right now. The mantra is, “Save with us.” Forget impulse buying and keeping up with the Joneses the average consumer wants to get to the next paycheck without having to give up luxuries like food.
I have confidence things will rebound (they always have) and Chicken Little will wonder why he was so concerned, but in the meantime the good citizens of our world are looking to people like you and me to offer cost effective solutions for virtually everything imaginable.
You could give in to the dark side and forecast doom, gloom and ultimate despair (it has been be an effective selling tool for some things). Or you can work to ease concerns and offer something people need. What you offer could be a product, service or information.
One of the quickest shifts for an online audience is information consumption.
What kind of information can you compile that would be absolutely beneficial to content consumers? This could be a wide variety of ideas for saving money around the house, while driving, when taking a trip, staycations, home remedy and cleaning solutions.
You could point people to sites that offer coupons for regularly purchased items. You could offer tips on how to make existing products last longer. Offer creative ways to have fun on a limited budget.
Fill every content piece with great SEO and tastefully apply banner and PPC advertising. Make this idea an economic downturn sideline business. Don’t stop what you’re already doing, just make what your doing sensible to the cash strapped visitor. If you can help them see the value in what you offer the chances improve that you can make a sale.
I still believe the online world is one of the best places to move quickly into business. Yes, it can take some time to get up to speed when it comes to traffic, but with people staying home more now than ever they are also likely spending more time online. Make them glad they dropped by.
The spirit of Chicken Little can be replaced with quality information, products and services that pay attention to the real needs of consumers. Isn’t it time to do your part in easing unrest in the global economy?