How to Sell to the Need of the Moment in Uncertain Times [Two on Tuesdays]


Happy Tuesday, Reader!

The market feels more uncertain now than at any time since the 2008 financial crisis— perhaps even more so than during the pandemic for many small businesses.

In moments like these, being impact-minded means adjusting our selling approach to meet the needs of the moment.

Community-based businesses, in particular, should focus on addressing survival needs rather than higher-level wants.

This shift in messaging is not about manipulation—it's about honestly showing your value when budgets are tight.

This need was driven home a few weeks ago in my work with a long-time client, a cleaning. They changed their message from:

"Relax, we'll handle the mess. You deserve it."

To:

"Save time so you can handle what's most important. You need to focus on the essentials."

The difference? The first message speaks to people whose basic needs are met and who can think about possibilities. The second addresses what people need when resources feel uncertain.

Your messaging can reflect your values AND meet your audience where they are.

If you're finding it harder to close deals, generate interest, or keep clients lately, your messaging might need adjusting. What do your clients need to hear right now?

Do you need help with your sales conversations? Reply to this email, and let's talk.

Until next time,

Renia C.


Renia Carsillo

Renia (pronounced R-EE-n-a) Carsillo hates business silos and marketing hacks. So, she spends her days working with mid-size and small companies to integrate their business strategy with their impact strategy, design sustainable marketing frameworks, and find a growth cadence that works for their team and their lives. Renia believes founders are uniquely positioned to create a kinder, more equitable world. She is passionate about bringing C-level strategic support to the small and mid-size companies shaping their communities every day. Renia says, "Sustainable marketing is built on a solid business strategy. A solid business strategy is built on values-driven habits. Values-driven habits are built on healed/healing leaders. We can’t do these things separately. They’re all interconnected. ”

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