What do you do when business slows down?

What do you guys do when business slows down?

Do you continue to advertise your services in the hope of getting a few deals, work on new designs/scripts/sites etc to pass the time or learn new skills while you're waiting for the next client to come along?

Sometimes no matter how hard we try business just doesn't want to pick up. One thing I always do when business slows down for me is stay focused, stay focused on the goals and ambitions we all have. Never give up, even if you think that you're never going to see the light at the end

Business is very slow for me at the moment and that's the reason for this thread, looking for ideas in which to spark more interest on the forum, but I understand that it's probably due to a difficult time of year for the majority of our memebers. Feel free to share ideas on what to do when things aren't going your way!

In the web design industry I'm very reliant on my previous clients for a return business opportunity, and viral marketing. However when this dies down and nothing is lurking about for me to grab at, I run promotions with new pricing schemes, and learn new skills.

In the last drought I had I purchased SoThink DHTML Menu Creator and begin using this to enhance my web pages, I also started toying with flash design.

It's a great opportunity to ensure that you never go slow again

When things slow down for me I usually do what Anthony did, start toying with new things. If things are slow I just go and learn something else. To help the forum I like how you post a bunch of interesting threads to spark conversation and I think it does well. I also like the contests and I think having them can work quite well, adding new features and continuously making changes will keep people coming back.

I continue to advertise myself, stay optimistic, and gather new business plans. Never giving up is key,and improving your business skills in your particular field always helps.

TalkFreelance is doing just fine, it may be a little slow at the moment but you have to remember this is a very busy part of the year, alot of people are doing exams and whatnot.

I usually start up other things when business go down. Business is slow right now for me so I'm doing some translation work and some freelance writing. I always try to learn new things about webdesign and grafic design. I still go to the grafic design school so if I'm too bored I can always do my homework :P I always stay optimistic cause I have alot of years to improve and get the business back.

I would strongly advise you to try something new if you can find the time. Maybe you find that you are really good at it

Go on a surfing trip

You hire new staff. People that are willing to be dedicated. Get some jobs and make some money! ;-)

Originally Posted by Julian Go on a surfing trip

I am serious about this too, sometimes we need to take time out. Especially so, if you are designing/marketing/promoting for extended periods of time.

Yeah, very true Julian! I'm on a short break as we speak but have to check the forums now and then

As for hiring more staff, if business isn't going well I certainly wouldn't start paying anymore overheads.

Im sure a few people on the forum would be more than willing to be an admin/mod for free, I would be.