Survival tips from 33 years in business and four economic downturns…
Quickly respond to clients – be available, take calls, respond to emails and let clients know we are as involved and interested in their business as they are. They should to be confident we are here to help.
Understand key performance indicators – review performance metrics that are important to making good business decisions regularly and take appropriate actions.
Implement projects with clear direction – make sure everyone in the company knows how to accomplish their assignments on time, on budget, by following our common process.
Capitalize on a suite of service offerings – be able to offer one-stop-shopping for clients and make sure they know all of our capabilities. Make these offerings fresh and appropriate to the times.
Keep a positive attitude and a sense of humor – as the leader of the company, attitude and laughter are directly responsible for my and the company’s health and sanity.
Stay out of debt – without owing principal or interest to anyone, we are able to adjust our business freely and clearly during both good and bad times.
Invest in stable, supportive technology – don’t go into tough times without a great infrastructure in place. Build it during the good times and use it like crazy in the bad times.
Leverage expert advice – I joined the TAB Board in 2001 where I receive monthly coaching and the support of other small business owners. It has been invaluable.
Visibly market our services – Use every medium possible to stay in front of our target audience. Use the Internet, print, networking opportunities and all other sources to keep Quicksilver front and center – after all we have what you need.
Encourage focused innovation – Listen to our clients and develop innovative solutions that meet their needs. If we hadn’t done this, we would still be making glass mounted slides.
Retain talented staff – It’s a lot of effort getting the right team in place to deliver world class creative work – but we’ve done it. If you work with us, you know what I mean.
