How Full is Your Glass?

Is the news we hear and read about every day as bad as we think it is?

With a new Administration in Washington, there's a lot of uncertainty about exactly how and when the promised changes will take place.

As we consider our own businesses in these uncertain economic times, we need to keep a few basic principles in mind:

1. Keep Selling. Nothing is more important than focusing on the right things. Increasing the top line solves a myriad of problems. Nothing is more important than a laser focus on sales-related activities. When in doubt – sell. A good sales call can transform your day.

2. Effectiveness. Resist the temptation to severely cut your advertising and marketing budgets. A better strategy is to put tight controls in place that allow you to gauge the response and adjust your expenditures on a weekly basis. Work with your SEO/AdWord Specialist on developing your advertising strategy.

3. Anticipate Opportunities. In whatever form it takes, there is likely to be a large influx of government money this year as part of the new President’s economic stimulus package. Keep an eye on the horizon as this money begins to flow, and respond accordingly with targeted marketing strategies. Be in the right place at the right time when hiring begins to ramp up.

4. Touch Base with Customers. Remind your clients of the work you have done for them and the results you have achieved. Make it a point to hold face-to-face meetings periodically. Meeting in person says you are interested and gives you an opportunity to build the relationship. It also may alert you to problems you might be able to solve.

5. Ask for Feedback. Don't assume your customers are satisfied. Ask how you're doing and take their suggestions seriously.

6. Resolve Complaints Fast. If a client has a problem, fix it now. If you can’t, explain why not.
7. Resist Negativity. Crisis and difficult times create opportunities. Because we can do it better, faster, cheaper, many doors can be opened that were closed in more stable times. As you get into those doors, be ready to seize the moment.

Yes, times are challenging, but the objects are not as big as you think and in fact these times may present opportunities. The question really is:

Is your glass half full or half empty?