Compromise: the fine art of making sure both parties are unhappy.

Hey! Welcome to 2009. Oh, I know it's not here yet, but in our line of work, we're actively looking ahead with our clients toward marketing programs for next year.

Just one thing, though. Much as I hate to mention it, some people are a wee bit nervous about (shhh) the economy. I, of course, have written blog entries and articles, and have spoken and even dreamed for heaven's sake about the importance of companies continuing a strong marketing program. And I stand behind that belief, as do (thank you, thank you) our excellent clients.

For fun, though, let's eavesdrop on a conversation clients and vendors are having, probably worldwide. The vendor could be a consultant or a manufacturer of roller coaster seats ... whatever. Insert your own vision.

Client: "Your work is great. Well... it's good. But we need you to accomplish much more next year and we have to cut the budget."

Vendor: "Ummmm...."

Client: "Your competition has offered to do the work free."

Vendor (confused): "Huh?"

Client: "We're willing to pay you a little bit, but only when we get paid by our suppliers. Sometimes that takes awhile."

Vendor: "This is not very professional of me, but I have five kids in college and I'm going to have a nervous breakdown."

Client: "Corporate says we can't spend much."

Vendor (defeated): "Well, how much CAN you pay?"

All right, that was disgraceful. If you ever find yourself in that situation, whether as the client or the vendor, remember one word.

COMPROMISE. Compromise means both of you leave the meeting a little unhappy and disappointed.Then again, both of you leave the room a little happy - no real winner can also mean no real loser, true?

In our next episode, the hapless vendor locates her backbone... stay tuned.