What Recession?

Everyone knows we are in a serious recession. Every day the
news is filled with stories of unemployment, skittish
consumers, foreclosures, poor business conditions and fears
of a "double dip." Businesses, large and small, are
suffering. Everyone knows this and it's become a mantra of
our times.
Except for those who know better. In the midst of all the
bad news, some businesses are expanding. Some are growing,
adding new customers, finding solutions and getting rich.
How do they do it? They have found a way to add unexpected
value, make larger contributions, solve problems and make
life better for their customers. So should you!
Some have reduced prices, added features or benefits. Others
have created new divisions or products and are penetrating
markets they might never have considered before the "hard
times" forced them to be creative and think in new ways.
Human nature has not changed. Everyone still loves a
bargain. People still want solutions, benefits and great
customer service. Yes, in many cases margins are down and
making the sale has become harder. Yes, the old exuberance
is gone and now you must earn business in more thoughtful
ways. But that does not change the fundamental equation:
People want stuff!
To profit in these "hard" times the old principles still
apply. Find a need and fill it. Provide value. Go the extra
mile. Listen to your customers and pay attention! Hear what
they need and want. Work with them to find effective,
efficient solutions and they will still beat a path to your
door. It's easy to make money when times are good, but the
really great fortunes are made when times are hard. The
businesses who are willing and ready to partner with their
customers actually take advantage of hard times to forge
bonds of loyalty that endure.

Quotes of the Week
Follow your bliss." -- Joseph Campbell
“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is
limited. Imagination encircles the world." -- Albert Einstein
"Courage is doing what you are afraid to do. There can be no
courage without fear." -- P. Hayes
"The greatest thing in the world is to know how to be one's
own self." -- Montaigne