“In this economy” (the new way practically every statement made by a human in March 2009 begins), companies are scrambling in an attempt to determine the proper use of their marketing budget.  And it ain’t easy, especially if you’re a solopreneur, a small business owner, or any other variety of human with a pulse and a finite pocket.

But are you really in over your head?  Is it time to hand off your marketing, or can you keep doing it yourself?  It depends.  Here are five signs you’re ready to take the plunge:

You’re insane. My favorite definition of insanity?  Repeating the same actions over and over and expecting a different result.  If your marketing routine isn’t producing results, you may need an outside eye (or some outside assistance) to determine where to cut the fat and where to ramp up the effort.

You’re (over)reactive.  True marketing results come from consistent and measurable actions, not reactions to every trend, shiny object, financial flutter, or bump in the road.  If you have slipped into reaction mode, you may need a dose of reality and some externally-enforced priorities to help you rein your marketing efforts back in.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.  If this is your reaction to the news that it’s time to market your business, you’re not alone.  Marketing (especially in a down economy) is not a cakewalk.  In fact, marketing can really, really suck.  However, if the slightest mention of a marketing task makes you want to crawl back into bed with your jammies and evade reality, you are likely in need of intervention and assistance.

You’re hurting. You know those growing pains you got when you were a kid and your muscles and bones were shooting upward and outward and all over the place?  They can (and do) wallop a business.  Transition points — going national, expanding your staff, changing your client base, raising your rates — are healthy, but they can place immense stress on your business, your budget, and your time management skills.  Shore up your resources and get help to bridge the gap and transition with ease.

You’re superhuman.  Wait, doesn’t that mean you can do your marketing yourself?  …Not necessarily.  If you take on too much, something will have to give.  Usually it’s those all-important routinized marketing tasks that fall to the bottom of the to-do list.  If you have trouble prioritizing marketing, it might be worth handing it off while you focus on saving the world.

Photo courtesy of gruntzooki

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