What to Do When Business Is Slow (That Isn’t Just “Post More”)
(Because burnout isn’t a marketing plan.)
We’ve all been there.
The leads stop coming in.
The phone slows down.
Your inbox gets really…quiet.
And what does everyone say?
“Just keep posting!”
Cool. But what are you posting about? What’s working? What’s not?
The truth is, slow seasons are a normal part of business - especially in real estate, retail, and service-based industries.
But instead of panicking (or doom-scrolling your way into a spiral), here are smart, productive ways to use this time to get ahead.
1. Reconnect With Past Clients
A lull is the perfect time to show up without selling.
✔️ Check in with past clients
✔️ Send a handwritten note or DM
✔️ Ask how their experience has been since working with you
✔️ Invite them to coffee or a client appreciation event
These conversations often lead to:
Referrals
Repeat business
Testimonials you can use in your marketing
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a system to track this…set one up while it’s slow. Future you will thank you.
2. Audit Your Brand + Systems
Does your Instagram bio still say “2023 Top Producer”?
Is your website missing half the services you offer now?
Do you actually have a nurture sequence set up in your CRM?
This is your time to:
Refresh your branding
Rewrite old bios and service pages
Clean up your Canva folders
Fix broken links, outdated pricing, or confusing workflows
You don’t need to rebuild your business - you just need to tighten the bolts.
3. Batch Your Next 30 Days of Content
Okay, yes - you should still post. But do it smarter.
Instead of panic-posting every day, spend one afternoon:
Mapping out your content pillars
Writing out 4–6 story ideas
Creating carousel templates
Recording 2-3 short-form videos (Reels, TikToks, YouTube Shorts)
Then you can schedule and relax - knowing your face is still showing up even when your schedule is light.
4. Launch or Test Something New (Low Risk, Low Pressure)
When you’re in the trenches, there’s no room to try fun stuff.
So when it’s slow, experiment.
✅ Host a free workshop
✅ Create a simple lead magnet
✅ Offer a pop-up service or bundle
✅ Partner with someone in your network for a referral swap
✅ Try a niche product or side hustle idea
This keeps you in motion, builds momentum, and shows your audience you’re still in the game.
5. Learn, Upgrade, or Get Inspired
This isn’t fluff - it’s maintenance.
What course have you been meaning to finish?
What book is collecting dust on your nightstand?
Who’s crushing it in your space that you can learn from?
Slow seasons are great for:
Getting re-inspired
Learning the latest social or email tools
Improving your offer, copy, or presentation
Reworking your pricing or packages
Every level of business has a new level of discipline. Use this time to prepare for your next one.
Final Take: The Slow Season Is Your Secret Weapon
This isn’t the end.
It’s your recalibration period.
What you do now determines how strong your bounce-back will be.
So instead of spiraling or spamming your feed…
Breathe.
Get organized.
And build the business you’ll be thankful for when things do get busy again.
Need help tightening your brand, building content systems, or creating an actual marketing plan that doesn’t burn you out?
JW Brands is here for the reset - and the rise.
