Are Things Looking Up?

We live in a time where technology has enabled us to receive news quickly, from sources we never even knew existed. We expect our news fast and we expect it to be updated constantly. And we can catch up with the latest events while on a train, at a stop light (not recommended) or even during an elevator ride. We are surrounded by information.

With this constant barrage of information — where even the slightest fluctuations in the markets are broadcast 24/7 — it's no wonder that our moods fluctuate right along with the news. The economy is the worst it has been in years … wait … the stock market is up and we are feeling positive. Retail numbers down … people are worried. Our moods are slaves to information. How do we cope?

All I know is that I'm feeling good about what is to come. I am seeing more job openings in the direct marketing space. Clients are less worried about investing in new talent. Some candidates have even shared that they will be receiving a bonus this year. Am I just in a positive mood and only hearing the good? Why do I feel so positive during one of the worst recessions our country has ever experienced?

My bright outlook is due in part because I am very excited about my decision to join Burtch Works. I am proud to be associated with such talented people who understand the market and have developed lasting relationships with clients and candidates alike.

I'm also developing a deep affection for technology — all the new tools and exciting innovations available for working with my clients and candidates. I've even managed to impress my college-aged kids with my new technical expertise, but my second grader, who was practically born with a mouse in his hand, knows more than all of us and is not that impressed. When he was just two years old, as he watched the tub fill with water for his bath, he patiently explained to me that the bathtub was "loading". It's good to know that I have an expert in the house to turn to if I hit a glitch.

Direct marketers have an incredible ability to cope with change because direct marketing itself is based on facts. Direct marketing campaigns are structured around what has been proven to be successful. Perhaps this is why the majority of direct marketers that I know are happy and successful in their careers. They can prove how their work has made a direct impact on the bottom line. They spot emerging trends before the general public does. They gather information from Web traffic, e-commerce sites, e-mail click-through rates and subscription services.

Direct marketers see it all, and I am proud to be part of such an innovative and dynamic community. So, are things looking up? Ask someone in direct marketing, because they already know the answers.

I look forward to developing a working dialogue with you here on my new blog. Feel free to leave a comment.

Please note my new e-mail address:

Sandy Marmitt

smarmitt@burtchworks.com

Be sure to connect with me on LinkedIn and to visit the new Burtchworks Website.