Selling During an Economic Downturn
Times are tough: the middle class isn’t spending like it used to, prospects look bleak for the bulk of the market and we all have to make decisions about when and where to spend what funds we have. All of these decisions to make in order to do the simple, but necessary, task of creating sales to prop up revenues. So, what is the easiest way? Well, we shouldn’t always do what is easy…
Work — Well Done — Results in More Work
First off, doing a good job always pays off - no matter what you think the true outcome of the project or sale was. So, keep up with the simple things that aren’t always easy to pull off:
- Work harder than most
- Creativity always helps
- Take advantage of diversity
- Be positive, see positive
- Enjoy what you are doing… be enthusiastic
Don’t just meet the minimum requirements, go past expectations. The “wow” factor is an over-used and under-employed tool. So, use it.
Make Your Own Headline, Don’t Buy What the Media Sells
Things look bleak. 129,000 jobs eliminated in Canada (and 4.5 times that in the United States) in the month of January 2009 alone. Credit exists but borrowing costs are up, if you can access that credit. The middle class isn’t spending like it used to. So what?
“Networking, planning and education are key opportunities to be taken on during a change in economic and market conditions — step back to see where your business can make the most impact, become more integrated in your environment and community. Take education and give it.”
Business and economic cycles exist for a reason: change and growth. Do both, and take advantage of the opportunities that now exist. Segments of the market are now available that previously weren’t, and specific types of employees with specific skills, knowledge and abilities may now be looking for work (the same folks that are impossible to find when times are good). Hire, develop, grow — be happy.
The scale will tip in the other direction… will your business be ready?
When the tide of change does role through will your business — and you — be ready? Making adjustments and being profitable during tough economic times is admirable, and being ready to make quick growth in a changing environment is stellar.
Be one of the businesses that is ready and will be agile in leveraging change. Look successful because you are… and continue to act the part.
