Surviving a Downturn: Successful Actions to be Successful

By Niko Papaheraklis

In times like today when we’re experiencing a crisis, it can feel like there’s nothing you can do about it.

But, there’s always something you can do to be successful, even during a difficult time. Below, we’re sharing some successful actions you can take today to become successful when everything else feels like its on a downturn.

1. Keep promoting
It would seem logical that during a crisis you would stop promoting your business. But, you actually want to do the opposite. There are a couple reasons for that. One being that people still need your services or product. The second being that many other businesses (even your competitors) will probably stop promoting their businesses, which means you’ll be top of mind, and most importantly, in business.

2. Look at facts
In today’s world we are bombarded with opinions on a daily basis. It’s important to ensure what you’re reading is factual information and/or is from a credible source.

3. Be flexible
Times like what we’re experiencing now require you to be a little flexible. Say you usually required a 30% retainer to begin a service. You may need to offer smaller retainers or a more flexible payment plan for the time being to be able to continue to serve your clients or customers. That’s just one example, but being flexible and understanding where your customers are at is important.

4. Get creative
Some of the best ideas come at a time of crisis. Things that would normally work may not be effective, so it’s time to get creative and start thinking of a possible new service or way of delivering your service you wouldn’t have thought of before. Who knows, maybe it’ll turn into a very successful and lucrative project!

If you don’t own a business, take this time to get creative in personal ways. Start that new hobby you’ve been wanting to try or learn a new skill you’ve always wanted to know.

5. Maintain excellent customer service
If you own a business, you should always have excellent customer service, but now more than ever it is vital. People are stressed and anxious, which can cause people to act in ways they normally wouldn’t. Be understanding that they’re going through a tough time and do everything you can to be of service to them. They’ll appreciate it and remember how you were helpful during a difficult time. On the other hand, they’ll also remember if you treated them poorly during a difficult time.

If you don’t own a business, understanding that everyone reacts differently in difficult times and showing empathy can go a long way. Be helpful when you can and treat others the way you’d like to be treated.

George Papaheraklis is the founder of FineCraft Contractors, Inc., located in Gaithersburg, MD. Since 1985, FineCraft has been building houses, additions, kitchens, baths and more for discerning families. Their blog can be seen at https://finecraftcontractors.com/blog/ and they can be reached at 301-330-9191.