R.I.P. Kodak -- Will the World End for all in 2012?

There are doomsday predictions that say the world will end this year. We won't be able to validate those predictions either negatively or positively until this time next year (if there is a next year!). But one thing is certain: Sadly, 2012 will be the end for some businesses.

While going out of business is an unfortunate reality that happens in many industries -- with technology changes and a sour economy (especially in a down cycle like we've been experiencing for way too long now), it does NOT have to happen to your business.

So how can you keep from becoming part of the statistics in 2012? Make a real commitment to marketing your business.

Marketing does not have to be overly complicated or require a large budget. It might be as simple as figuring out the ideal prospects who would purchase what you sell, then targeting those prospects with relevant messages via as many marketing channels as your budget allows. If your budget is tight, focus on a niche group. Start small, and grow your business from there.

If you don't have one already, start a marketing calendar today, and set up a plan for various marketing activities that you will do throughout the year. (Plum Grove gives out free wall calendars to clients every year at this time -- while supplies last.) Be encouraged and proactive, so we can all look back at this time next year and chuckle about the latest doomsday predictions.