Rejuvenate Your Business During These Difficult Economic Times

Lately in my community, it seems like another business is closing its doors every few weeks. This is heartbreaking because I have patronized many of these businesses and seen the hard work and labor their owners have put into making them a success. But, often this isn't enough because the economy can still stampede you when you least expect it. Here are a few quick tips to assist you in the challenge of helping your business survive.

Grab a notebook, pad, your computer, or whatever works for you. You are going to make an action log. So, it is time to create your plan. You cannot truly move forward if you have no idea of what you intend to accomplish. Set dates! This will keep you moving forward, because this makes it clear what the timeline is, and what the expectations are.

Don't try to make too many changes too quickly. This is often the downfall for many individuals. They have a host of ideas, and take on too much at once, burn out, or become frustrated and nothing gets done. Decide on one or two of the most important adjustments that you believe would benefit your business, and be beneficial. Make them happen.

If you have an idea, but cannot clearly see how to make the changes happen, ask for ideas and opinions from individuals you know, trust and respect. Often others can observe an idea from an angle you may have not thought of. Seek out a mentor in the same field or similar field that may have gone through this process and see if they can help guide you. They just may be able to prevent you from sinking in to certain pitfalls because they have already been through it.

Remember the old school methods of relationships and doing business? We have to admit that modern technology has eliminated the personal touches that meant so much. Now everyone emails,texts...how about calling clients and letting them know you still care about them? See if there is a service they need that perhaps your company can provide. If you can make it happen, do it! Handwritten notes are wonderful because most businesses now do everything electronically. There is nothing like a handwritten note that says. "I appreciate your business, and thank you for supporting me." Set yourself apart from the pack with this forgotten approach. I make it a point to make mental notes of businesses that have taken the time to do this for me. Remember, when your business makes a kind jester, others will spread the news.

Always look for ways you can continue to expand. Is there another business that you can connect with to perform a joint venture? Look around, and perhaps you will find an area that will help you thrive both professionally and financially. Perhaps you may even make a new business associate along the way.

Are you working with team players that can help you reach the next level? You need to ensure your team members have talent that can help you reach the goals you have planned for your business.

While reviewing others and reevaluating their offerings, you need to review yourself, business conduct, strengths, weaknesses, and ways you can improve to help promote your business to new heights.

Always stay current on methods and areas to improve, stay open to others and ideas, and work with integrity to take you to the next level of development.