In today’s whirly climate of recession versus downturn versus sunny skies, it serves us all to consider how to recession-proof businesses. It certainly never hurts, right?

"Those who focus on getting their sales message, sales staff and corporate mission in alignment with what the business’ customers value will reap the greatest reward in any economy and in particular, a recession." - K. McKeon

In a recession we effectively cull the herd of non-performing companies. If you are the bottom quarter of your industry, perhaps your talents are better suited elsewhere. Move on.

A recession is the perfect time to test your sales staff. As other companies realize they are not in the fight for the long haul, your front line sales staff should be scooping up customers left and right. A company in alignment with customer values should actually THRIVE during a recession or downturn. Even if your product doesn’t fully suit your customer in the economic downturn, simply having that customer means you can ask what to provide to maximize the customer’s needs. It may mean providing a smaller form of your product or a related product. You won’t know until you ask. Good sales staff ask.

For more on the concept of aligning your front line with your customer’s needs: How to Recession Proof Businesses.

Go. Win.