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	Weathering The Storm Of The Economy

	by Christa Patchen Wagner

It goes without saying people are hunkering down right now looking for ways to save money. We are all spending LESS and looking for ways to use money more wisely than we did a year ago. Is that affecting business, sure it is, but don't allow the media explosion about the unpredictable economy affect the foundation you have worked so hard to achieve. Now, more than ever, it’s time to think about the key components to a successful business: Here is some productivity and general business boosting tips...

HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE

Nobody likes cranky pants so be positive and look on the bright side. The economy will always have it’s up and down, and it’s all part of the cycle of owning a business. The world will turn around. Positive people are like MAGNETS; others want to be around them and will send their friends and family to them for business. Being positive will come back to you.

STAY THE COURSE

Now is not the time to make big CHANGES or shift gears. Stick to what works well for your business and continue to focus on becoming an expert in your field. People are still using products and services; continue to be a trustworthy expert in your product or service and clients will find you.

DO MORE, GET BUSY

Nothing happens when you watch the pot boil. We all know this so get out of the office and AWAY from your desk. Some of my best ideas have come to me at a coffee shop, on a run or at a networking event. Get out there and do something, meet someone, give a free workshop, go to a Biznik event, visit a supplier, make a connection, etc.

PROTECT YOUR KEY CUSTOMERS

Now more than ever, it’s vital to stay in TOUCH with your clients. Follow-up on a recent appointment or product purchase, send an email, get a coffee of grab lunch. Did you know that 60% of clients leave us because they feel neglected? A while back, I read a great book, called Growing Your Business by Mark LeBlanc and he states, “never let your key 25 contacts more than 30 days away from you.” Contact a key customer today.

FOLLOW UP ON LEADS, REFERRALS, LONG SHOTS, ETC.

You never have enough time right? Well, now you might have a few more minutes each day. Take that time to get back in touch with potential clients, consider a promotional or value added offer -- focus on OPPORTUNITIES that will benefit your business when things pick up.

FOCUS ON TOP PRIORITIES

It is so easy during slower time to fill our time with time FILLERS vs. top tier objective. Avoid time management pitfalls that allow us to feel like we are accomplishing a lot because we are so busy. What this busyness really creates is a guise for avoiding the very important actions we must complete.

CREATE A STOP DOING LIST

Per my other article, take this time to ELIMINATE activities, tasks or events that are not important to you, your family, your career, your business and your health.

TAKE ACTION

There's really not much we can do about the economy, but you know what that’s why I wanted my own business in the first place. We AFFECT our businesses. I am just going to keep plugging along and I hope the economy catches up one day soon. Make it a great day!

Christa Patchen Wagner is with Savvy Solutions Organizing, INC -- visit her website at www.savvysolutionsorganizing.com.

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Click here to return to "Organized For A Living" -- January 2009...