We are so busy, we're  absolutely slammed!

Now back to your being busy. 
You've often heard me mention that marketing isn't logical; it's emotional.  Well, it's logical to want to state how busy you are to the many people who are willing to listen.  They'll think you're successful and want to become part of your client/customer base.  Unfortunately, logic doesn't win out here.

What's far more likely is that referrals will drop off, and clients will start to complain, even without cause.  Remember: the single biggest reason why people and companies change vendors is Lack of Attention.

Perhaps you have a client/customer who's wanted to jump ship, but didn't know how to do it.  You just handed him or her the perfect opportunity.  This client will complain about your pricing, your service, almost anything, and often just for the sake of being difficult.

Because you know what's at work?  It might be jealousy from someone who's counting your money and thinking you're getting rich.  Or, a family member or partner who's trying to get another company as a vendor.  There are myriad reasons.

Bottom line?  Stop bragging!

Here's the way to answer the question,
"How's business?"

"It's pretty good, thank you; but we could always use more."

Another tip:  be sure to train your employees who are on the front lines, i.e. in face-to-face or voice-to-voice contact with your clients, to say the same thing.  If you hear them on the phone with clients stating, even moaning, about how busy they are, take them aside after the call and give it to them straight.  They are simply to utter the line above and not become dramatic about being slammed or working long hours or being

unable to catch up on quotes or other paperwork.  This is non-negotiable.

Last hint:  when employees are stressed due to overwork or higher demand on their time, they have a tendency to become a bit arrogant.  This manifests itself as, "Well, we're not going to be able to meet with you for at least three weeks.  We've got some big clients to attend to."  This is for context only, but you get the idea.  This is very poor marketing.

Make it a point of meeting with clients and prospects quickly.  When you're face-to-face, tell them when you'll be able to begin their work.  Except for an occasional client from you-know-where, they'll be very accommodating and willing to wait for a good, quality firm to address their needs.

Here's your first (and significant) sign that this could be a difficult client.  You can't win them all.  Walk away politely, but quickly, and pat yourself on the back for seeing the signs early on.

Once again, I applaud you for being busy.  It's a wonderful feeling to be rewarded for your hard work.  

Now, go to Udemy.com to learn how to sustain your marketing throughout your good times.  You'll be able to spend much less on your marketing, but it's crucially important that you continue to market consistently.  And learn how to handle your good times graciously.  

This is Public Relations with a capital "P" and "R."