Write on Time: Strategies for Today’s Uncertain Economy

by Adrienne Tange
EBSTC President-Elect

Adrienne Tange is the co-founder of Write on Time Solutions, LLC , a technical writing company that creates clear, concise and accurate technical documentation or Web content — always on time and on budget.

In her free time, she enjoys riding and showing her Arab horse.

Lately many writers are in an "in-between state," or what Shelley DeLuca of Freelancing: Bizzia calls the state of "meanwhile."

For some, this waiting period is caused by circumstances. You may be waiting for something specific, like a new client or job because of a layoff or a downturn in a certain business sector. Or you may be waiting to make a decision because your profession is changing. For example, some technical communicators must decide if they want to learn new skills to stay in the profession or to do something else.

If you are a freelancer, it may be a time to rethink your business strategy. In an article written by Michelle Rafter, Grant Plowman, owner of Interactive Media Publishing, a Medford, Oregon, e-learning tools company, suggests that freelancers review their strengths and weaknesses using an assessment technique called SWOT: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.

If you are in the state of meanwhile, what should you do? Sit around and worry or do something useful? I vote for being proactive. Here are my five recommendations:

1. Spend more time networking.

Plan a lunch with someone you haven't seen in a while or attend meetings for a professional or business club. The time you spend networking will make you feel productive and boost your mood. Moreover, keeping in contact with others is a powerful marketing tool.

2. Update your skill sets.

Take a local class, such as a writing, Web, or business course. Not only will you be learning something that you can add to your resume, but you will also be networking.

3. Pump up your sales and marketing.

In this economy, you must work harder to attract new business. The clients are out there, but you must search for them. I like to think of it as a Where's Waldo game. The client is Waldo hidden in a sea of people and distractions.

4. Think creatively.

Your old way of finding clients may not work anymore. You may have to look in new industries or use new marketing tactics.

5. Start an exercise plan.

Exercise helps you both physically and psychologically. You can join a gym or take Pilates or yoga classes. If you don't want to spend money, start a walking routine. I try to walk every day for about 40 minutes. My 40-minute jaunt helps clear my head, gets me out of the office, and keeps me fit.

What are you doing if you are in the state of meanwhile? Please tell us at info@writeontimesolutions.com what has or has not worked for you.

Melody Brumis and Adrienne Tange are writing this column to help you achieve small business success. If you have any questions for us, please email us at info@writeontimesolutions.com and we will address them in future columns.