Succeeding in the '09 Economy

Posted on 03/09/2009 by admin

In dealing with business owners worldwide this past year, one trend stands out sharply. The successful firms are ones moving forward, but doing so prudently. Rather than shuttering the windows and drawing the shades they’ve decided to simply slow down, make adjustments, but still advance. In our case, we have clients utilizing our naming and branding services by the hour rather than by the project. In other cases we provide feedback on internally generated brand names, or we provide overarching themes for new product lines, allowing their in-house staff to generate the individual brand names.

In other words these companies may not be sprinting out of the gate, but they are putting one foot in front of the other. They are looking at the changing landscape in their industry and across their customer base, and making smart decisions. Perhaps it’s an acquisition of a former competitor, or a merger. Or it might be the opportunity to provide a new service or product line based on shifts in customer attitudes.

Bethel Farms is developing more drought tolerant grass varieties rather than simply selling sod.

TrickleStar is committed to eliminating useless electrical consumption.

Green Peg is helping companies better connect with their customers.

10 Connects is transforming into an interactive community news portal vs. a “TV station”

All of these changes come at a time when these companies could easily opt out and “wait out” the economy. And it’s not because they are loaded with money. It’s because they know their mission and are concentrating their efforts on what matters most. They’ve identified what their customers want and they are taking steps to provide it.

So rather than focusing on the news, the Dow, the economy, etc., ask yourself what one step would most move your company forward. And then “just do it.”