The Recession & Your Business: Making Adjustments to Survive & Thrive
Let’s talk about the recession. Officially, it’s over, but we all know many businesses are still struggling. As a member of a local BNI Chapter, it has been shared with us that the founder, Ivan Misner, took a personal stance against the recession by declaring he was not going to participate in it. He even had buttons made that read “I refuse to participate in the recession.” Now, that may sound bold, or you may think, “He’s not living my reality right now,” but let’s really think about this.
There is opportunity everywhere. Even in times like these. Just stop for a moment and allow yourself to see it. Who is busy right now? Bankruptcy attorneys, loan modification experts, CPAs, realtors who have adapted to the new market reality, alternative energy industries…just to name a few. How can you parlay your company with these or other industries that are thriving? What can you offer that provides value and convenience to booming businesses?
Don’t let the media determine your mindset. Decide today that you want to grow your business. Decide that you aren’t going to let the economy take you down. If your company needs to “zig” when you have always “zagged,” make the change. Do what you need to do to keep your doors open, your employees employed and your company thriving. It is realistic to make this happen. Just think outside the box. Brainstorm with employees, friends or family. Hire a business coach if you can afford it. It might be that you can’t afford not to hire one because of what a good coach can do for you (personal experience talking here).
You can face the current economy, make adjustments and survive and/or thrive. Or become a statistic. It’s your decision. I vote for punching the recession right between the eyes and knocking it on its keister.