Make Economic Turbulence Work for You

Ever hear the adage about things seldom going according to plan? It is likely the story of my entire life in one cliche.

One thing I always wanted, though, was to own a small business. I didn't plan for it to be a small business advisory services firm until a few years ago. I'm grateful for the path, however it deviated from my "grand life plan."

Economic turbulence can quickly exhaust the best laid plans of any small business owner. More than ever, down turns are times for forceful, thoughtful, dynamic strategic planning. Use the tips below to help focus your growth planning for 2009.

Be positive. People want to be around positive thinkers and doers, especially when much of what they're bombarded with is negative. It is also invigorating to identify other small business people who are finding ways to grow and succeed regardless of the economy. Some of their good fortune and positive energy may rub off on your business, creating positive returns for you.

Reconnect with your network. During times of economic prosperity, it is easy to become overloaded and forget those sources of good leads in the past. Likewise, it is easy to focus on the most immediate thing. Over the next couple of months, make meaningful reconnections with five people. A person may not refer to you any more simply because you've fallen off their radar. Remind them that you're there.

Objectively evaluate all business opportunities that fit your small business' goals and targets. Now is not the time to make snap judgments or underestimate who is standing in front of you. Take the time, especially if things are slow, to focus on building new bridges and relationships that will continue to serve you, regardless of the economic environment to come. In the next sixty days, make a list of five people who could be effective mutual business partners and make forming a relationship with each of them a reality.

Focus on your profile. You may have more time to experiment with social networking tools for business. Be available to contribute to any reputable media outlet that can use you as a source. Submit for awards and recognition of your skills. If you identify one new means of raising your profile in the next sixty days, you will likely be an expert at it quickly. We have referral outlets who can help you.

Thank people for leads and new business. Sincere recognition of the help others contribute toward your own success is just another way to be positive. With the prevalent doom and gloom out there, personalized thank you's are welcome surprises in any in box or mail box. Wherever you are, adopt this little piece of Southern grace and charm immediately.

Thank you to all of you who help me succeed, who read my newsletter, who pass it along, who recommend me to others, and who value my services. POSITUS wishes you a remarkable Thanksgiving.