In a region that is as diverse as the Middle East, the only way to extend coverage for international companies is to strike strong partnerships with local companies, relying on their local knowledge, contacts to extend coverage. Partnerships to me means that the vendor and local partner work TOGETHER for the common good of the business, presenting a united front, creating a strong market place. So if the partner does well, so does the vendor. That's a no brainer. 

Necessity is the mother of invention. A very cliched saying but necessity does encourage innovation.

H2O New Media (shameless plug for our web guys) are a imaginative lot. Not only are they creative but they have come up with a great way to help businesses (while making some money for themselves) drive new business. Its not rocket science but its been packaged well and being social marketing specialists - have been very creative in the way they are promoting their new web site on Facebook.

In Steve Vaile's own words, "get the phrase “CREDIT CRUNCH” removed from all media and replaced with another phrase such as “CHUFF KNACKER SOUP” which is infinitely more entertaining".

So how about beating "chuff knacker soup"?

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a much bandied term. Everyone wants to do it and it features high on people's list but not sure how many of them (except for the big boys understand the term). On a personal level, I do as much as I can and from a company standpoint too, I do what I can to support local initiatives.