How to Increase Sales during a Slow Down in our Economy

Tough times are here, what to do now?

When the going gets tough the tough get going! We have all heard this at one time or another and for many of us it holds very true. We have long been a country of coming together and working with one another when times get lean. Unfortunately times are indeed tough. I have had numerous conversations with clients of mine that are worried about the current state of our economy and candidates that have also decided to stay put where they are and ended their respective new job search. What are we to do?

I find during these times that I simply have to work harder, increase my volume of new connections and reach out to older clients that have not been active for a while. Even the leanest companies are hiring at some type of level. Some are trimming the fat while others that perform contract work for outsourcing may actually benefit from a slow down of the larger companies. Bottom line: increase your output and you will see success.

I also try to bring a value add when pitching a new client company and try to have some type of strategic info on their current state while initially engaging with them. You really need to know how to help your clients and what will benefit them not only in the short term but also over a long period as well. If sales are down, introduce a candidate that may bring some new business to the table or ask some probing questions as to why they feel things have slowed down. If there is a problem, do your best to help them fix it.

No matter what business you call your own, it is imperative that you stay visible and open to the changes of your client base and adjust to their needs. I am hopeful that all of us will prosper in ’09 and working together will be the key. Are you willing to work a little harder? If you do, you will absolutely benefit in the long run.