With the sluggish economy, companies have to cut costs, but that doesn't mean decreasing the ability to market effectively.

Just this past week, we heard report after report about companies who are faced with the decision whether to cut employees' salaries, or layoff workers.  There is no question that companies, nonprofits, and the public sector need to cut costs.  There simply isn't enough business coming in to justify a full workforce for many organizations.

But there is a business strategy - while not new - that is often overlooked simply because  many companies just don't think of it, or are not familiar with it.

Simply put, it is outsourcing.

Everybody knows what outsourcing means.  Instead of staffing a company or organization with full-time employees, there are consultancy firms that can do many jobs just as well, and often better, for less money.

Here's an example.  When it comes to marketing, many enterprises believe they need an in-house marketing department.  This often means a marketing director, a public relations director and support staff.  The costs for a full in-house marketing department include salaries, payroll taxes, health insurance, time off for sick and vacation days and providing work space.  That adds up. And, when there is a business cycle that doesn't require intensive marketing the company still has to pay the salaries and benefits until the next marketing push.

At the same time, when money is tight, they look to marketing as one of the first departments to eliminate or trim.  However, when times are tough, isn't marketing the most important function for a company to sustain itself?

On the other hand, by utilizing a marketing consultancy firm, a company knows exactly what they are paying for, and how much.  There are no benefits or office space to provide, no support staff, and when slow seasons come around, a consultancy can be put on hold, or services cut back until they are needed again.  No trauma letting employees go or cutting back hours.

Additionally, consultants are seasoned professionals who are specialists and have encountered numerous business challenges.

But isn't a consultant expensive?  The only thing I can say is in this economy, you'll find consultants willing to negotiate fees and focus services to give you what you need for a cost you can easily manage.

Every company owes it to themselves to consider the consultancy route at least for marketing services.  It is definitely a way to not only save money, but have professionals on your team who specialize in what you need, when you need it.

For additional information you can contact Harvey Farr at info@FarrPR.com  www.FarrMarketing.com