Bruce Freeman, president of ProLine Communications in New Jersey, writes a column called The Small Business Professor for Scripps Howard News Service. Here’s some advice from a recent column on making your new business recession proof:
Anchor your business and brand to your passion. Customers are intrinsically drawn to the ‘why’ of your business — the passion, the spark, that makes your company unique and fires up its mission.
Businesses built on the passions of their creators are able to endure tough times and come out stronger.
Focus on your triple bottom line: Instead of reaching for profits only, look for ways that people, profits and the planet can work side by side in your business practices.
For instance, you could show a commitment to green, environmentally sustainable practices and communicate this to your staff and customers.
People will see you are in business not only to make payroll, but also to make a difference.
Plan to succeed.
There’s an old saying: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.
Once you create a plan to meet your business objectives, clearly communicate it with your team.
Commit to meet all parties’ needs and define them clearly.
When meeting with staff, vendors and customers, always set an intention and ask what each person needs to meet that intention.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
