I've spent the last few weeks reflecting on 2023 and looking into what 2024 holds. As a business owner working with a variety of companies, I realize we have this incredible opportunity to share across the board what we're seeing currently, and what that may mean for 2024. As a sales, marketing and service company that primarily works with companies in the manufacturing, construction, industrial, and building materials spaces, we have a unique window into over half a billion dollars of business within a variety of sizes of companies.
To say the past few years have been challenging is an understatement. However, we have witnessed some significant improvements in the supply chain issues that plagued us in 2020 and 2021. As we look forward to 2024, it may be the closest thing to recovery we've seen yet, with some added challenges brought on by the upcoming election year.
One of the biggest challenges we've seen over the past few years is the backlog created by supply chain issues. However, we're happy to report that many of our clients are starting to see some relief in this area. Manufacturing and distribution operations are running more smoothly, and customers are getting their orders filled on time. Manufacturing companies specifically are back to having capacity to fulfill orders.
As we move into 2024, the focus will shift to generating inbound leads for sales teams, which is where marketing can play a critical role. From our perspective, it's time to start ramping up marketing efforts to take advantage of the demand that's finally building up.
As we mentioned earlier, 2024 is an election year, which adds a layer of uncertainty and unpredictability. It's anyone's guess how things will turn out, but we're advising our clients to be prepared for some bumps along the way. This means continuing to invest in marketing even if demand starts to wane, as it often does in election years. We're also suggesting that companies start exploring alternative sourcing options to minimize the impact of any disruptions that might arise.
One trend (which will likely turn into a normal practice) that we see as critical moving forward is the importance of technology. From automation to AI to the Internet of Things, there are many ways that businesses can leverage technology to improve their operations and bottom line. As a sales, marketing and service company, we're helping our clients to incorporate these technologies into their messaging and make the most of their investments. We're also advising them to stay on top of emerging trends and technologies (especially Jasper.ai - be sure to check it out) and be willing to adapt and evolve as needed.
And finally, the one thing that we’re seeing across the board (including for ourselves) is that companies need ONE specific characteristic for success… PATIENCE. Whether it’s for sales, change management, marketing strategies, internal communications… these last few years have challenged all of us in terms of patience. The knee-jerk decisions usually lead to regret. Good marketing takes time. Changing course takes time. Playing offense is always a better strategy than being defensive. Be yourself. Keep an eye open for what’s going on in your industry of course, but stay true to your culture, your brand, and your core.
As we reflect on 2023 and look forward to 2024, we're optimistic about the future. While challenges remain, we're seeing signs of recovery and growth. From our perspective as a sales, marketing and service company, we believe that companies that invest in marketing and stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies will be well-positioned for success in the years to come.
We're grateful to have the opportunity to work with our clients and help them navigate these uncertain times. Thank you for trusting your business to our business, and here's to continued growth and success in the year ahead!
Cheers,
