4 Marketing Tips for Uncertain Times

In this week’s episode of DMJ 1 on 1, we’re talking about something every business, brand, and marketer faces eventually—uncertainty.

Whether it’s economic, industry-specific, or just a natural ebb and flow, uncertain times can make even the most confident leaders question their next steps. But here’s the truth: great marketing still works, even during uncertainty. In fact, it’s often the best time to lean into what works.

In this episode, Kirby shares 4 Marketing Tips for Uncertain Times—but the real magic is that these tips aren’t just for rocky moments. They’re timeless principles that will serve you well no matter what the headlines say.

Watch the full video here:

Let’s dive into the four tips that can help you not only survive—but thrive—when the road ahead feels unclear.


When Everyone Is on Defense, Go on Offense

Uncertainty tends to trigger one common reaction in organizations: they pull back. Budgets are slashed. Marketing is paused. Risk-taking is replaced by caution.

But here’s the opportunity: when everyone else retreats, you can advance.

Now is the time to:

  • Increase your visibility

  • Share your message more frequently

  • Show up for your audience when others don’t

Why does this matter? Because when the dust settles (and it always does), your brand will be the one people remember. You didn’t go quiet. You didn’t disappear. You leaned in and provided value when others went silent.

Going on offense doesn’t mean reckless spending—it means being intentional, active, and bold while others play it safe.


Guard Your Customers

It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of new business. And let’s be clear—new customers are important. But during uncertain times, it’s more critical than ever to protect and serve the customers you already have.

Why?

  • They already trust you.

  • They’ve already chosen to work with you.

  • It’s significantly more cost-effective to retain a customer than to acquire a new one.

In uncertain times, these relationships can become even more valuable. Stay close to your existing clients. Check in. Ask what they need. Provide value beyond the transaction.

Retention becomes the real win.


Look for Ways to Add Value—Not Cut Price

When uncertainty hits, the knee-jerk reaction for many businesses is to discount. Price cuts feel like a quick fix for sluggish sales. But here’s the problem: it’s a race to the bottom, and it rarely builds loyalty or long-term growth.

Instead of lowering prices, look for ways to increase value.

  • Can you add a bonus service?

  • Can you improve the customer experience?

  • Can you bundle products in a creative way?

People don’t always want the cheapest option—they want the most valuable option. Show your audience that what you offer is worth every penny, and they’ll come back again and again.


Multiply Your Social Media Efforts

In uncertain times, communication matters more than ever—and social media is one of the most powerful tools you have.

Here’s the problem: too many brands use social media as a one-way announcement board. That won’t cut it anymore. If you want to build trust, grow influence, and create real brand equity, you need to:

  • Create content that helps people

  • Engage in real conversations

  • Be consistent and present

Now is not the time to disappear from your audience’s feed. In fact, this is the time to double down.

The beauty of social and content marketing is that the barrier to entry is low—but the return can be high. But like anything else, you have to put in the work.


Final Thoughts: Lean In When Others Lean Out

The instinct to retreat when times are uncertain is natural—but it’s not strategic. The brands that come out stronger are the ones that stay visible, stay valuable, and stay connected.

To recap:

  1. Go on offense while others are on defense

  2. Guard and care for your existing customers

  3. Focus on adding value—not lowering price

  4. Multiply your efforts on social media and content marketing

These aren’t just “uncertain times” tactics—they’re evergreen strategies that can elevate your brand and build momentum no matter what’s going on around you.

And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk.  We’d love to help you.  Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE!  This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.

Written by: Kirby Hasseman

Kirby Hasseman is the CEO of Hasseman Marketing & Communications. Kirby hosts a weekly Web show called Delivering Marketing Joy where he interviews business leaders from around the country. Kirby has published four books. His most recent is “Fan of Happy.” His book, called "Delivering Marketing Joy" is about doing “promo right” and is perfect for people in the industry and customers. He also wrote “Think Big For Small Business” and “Give Your Way to Success. All are available on Amazon.