Many businesses are experiencing a slump in recent times. Whether it is due to the global health crisis, political upheaval, personal issues, or anything else, there is no denying that recent months have been challenging for businesses and individuals alike – no matter where in the world they may be.

However, even during these difficult times there are many ways you can boost business, attract customers, and continue to grow and thrive in the marketplace!

Increasing your sales by getting yourself and your business more visible to your target audience can be achieved in a wide variety of ways. Try being creative and ambitious in your approach, and why not begin by using the following six powerful — yet underrated — ways to boost your business?

1. Make it Official: Get Certified

A great way to catch the eye of clients and customers is to get your skillset and knowledge base officially certified. Industry certifications and accreditations are always valued because it is an instant signifier that you are legitimate and reputable.

Clients and customers often do not have the time or the inclination to do extensive research into a company’s background, meaning they seek quick signifiers of quality and trustworthiness.

Of these, the most reliable and effective are excellent reviews from other customers, and industry certifications or accreditations. Does your industry offer any training or accreditation that you could use in your business? Investigate today!

2. Invest in Training

Whether you are a veteran of your industry or a total newcomer, you and your team will always benefit from gaining additional training and experience. There may have been industry changes of which you were not aware, or a new approach that you prefer to your old one.

Training can also provide a fresh perspective, along with helping you and your workforce to become more skilled and efficient overall. Don’t forget that you can engage in training at a variety of price points — whether that’s with an extensive (and expensive) industry course, or simply in your own time for free!

3. Reassess Your Budget

Times of change and upheaval can be a great time to go back to the basics. It is often here that you can affect the biggest changes and see the most progress — without having to add anything elaborate to your business processes.

A great example is your budget. By regularly reviewing or updating your budget, you can ensure that no outgoings have become automatic or unconscious, and that you and your business are still spending mindfully - in alignment with your ambitions and what you can afford.

Whether you give yourself an audit or enlist the help of a professional, review and refresh your business budget today!

4. Be More Sociable

A highly effective way to boost your business is to be more active and visible! For business owners, this tip applies both to both online and in-person networking.

In-person networking might include attending events, conferences, and industry get-togethers, while socially distant or remote networking methods can include livestreams, online Q&As, and maintaining an active, engaging social media presence.

At a time when many are feeling disconnected or even lonely, businesses and entrepreneurs can step up to help people make new connections and build a genuine community.

5. Collaborate

Consider whether your business could benefit from a collaboration. This might be with a complementary business or individual operating in a similar industry to you, a local initiative, or an affiliate or influencer program, for example.

There is perhaps no better way to boost your business than by potentially doubling (or trebling, or more!) your reach. Collaborations are a great way to build and share networks, and to be seen by a wider range of customers who would benefit from your products or services.

6. Outsource To Experts

An underrated tip for boosting the strength of your business is to be honest about its weaknesses. What are the areas of your business that you struggle with, don’t have time for, or even feel overwhelmed by? These can be the ones that need the most attention!

In such cases, consider outsourcing to experts and reap the rewards of their expertise! Many businesses engage bid and tender writers, for example, to maximise their opportunities for securing work. Others employ SEO professionals to ensure their business is optimised online, or use copywriters who can write in the most persuasive and effective ways.

Identifying some of the weaker areas of your business allows you to get experts in those fields on board to help. This can have a powerful impact on your growth and your efficiency!