Is Your Business Recession Proof?
by Ken Potalivo (topic expert: productivity, passion and purpose)

We all know those high-performing professionals who refuse to participate in this or any other recession. They conduct their business the same way in good times and bad. They are clear about what they want to accomplish, how they will do it and are relentless in their pursuits. They realize that while the opportunities are fewer, they are poised to take advantage of those that are available. So what is it that they do that seems to always keep them above the rest? Here are some key ways that high-performing professionals recession proof their business.

Operate at a High Energy. Level It is clear that high-performers are passionate about what they do and they exude an energy level that attracts people to them. Their actions are purposeful, they present themselves professionally and they are crisp in their discussions. They understand that they are not only the provider, but that they are also the product. High performers do great work for every client. People want to do work with service providers who they believe understands their issues or needs and will champion their cause. In tougher economic times clients are even more particular since they're tighter with their dollars.

What can you do? First, remember that you are the product. First impressions are critical. Potential prospects as well as potential referral sources make their initial assessment of you fairly quickly. Do not give your prospect a reason to not want to explore your services further. If they make a first negative impression about the way you look or the way you present yourself, you will have an uphill battle to change their thinking.

Take the time to invest in your health and energy level. A daily exercise routine is not only a healthy idea; it will distinguish you from those who come across tired and sloppy. Dress professionally. In recent years business casual has been widely accepted. If you are unsure about the dress, dress up. No one will ever fault you for dressing more formally than they expect. When you are with a prospect, stay in the moment. Make that person the most important person in your world. You can make them feel special by maintaining eye contact and being a very good listener.

Have Business Clarity. Be very clear about your business proposition. What you do and for whom you do it. If you do not have a plan for 2009 do it! It will help you create clarity of what you want to accomplish and it will keep you focused. This is no time to be trying to be all things to all people and hoping something sticks. Having clarity allows you to clearly communicate to others what you are all about. Those who shoot from the hip expose their lack of preparation. Your referral sources will appreciate your clarity and will know how to help you.

Stay involved with your business community. Do not hibernate. Take an active role in various business groups. If you have the opportunity to meet some key potential referral sources, take the initiative and follow-up. Don't wait for the other person to make the first move. Let them know you would look forward to getting together with them to learn more about their business and how you may be able to help.

Build and manage a relationship system. Seek professionals who are purposeful like you and who can drive clients to you as you can do for them. There will be those who will try and steal your precious time trying to get something from you. It is ok to say no to lunches that you know will only take time out of your day with no constructive results. Focusing on a few key relationships where you have done your due diligence will give you predictability and you will operate more efficiently.

Each month, reflect on your progress in all categories of your business relative to your plan. Make note of all that was accomplished during the month. This will trigger action items for the next 30 days. Keep the action items in front of you and as you complete them, check them off. It feels good to see that check mark!

Surround yourself with other high performers. People who care about you, will challenge you, offer you ideas and will keep you on track. Work together to help one another excel. The benefits can be extraordinary!

If you are already doing the above you are operating a recession proof business. If you are not, there is no better time than the present to begin to recession proof your business. We do not have control over macroeconomic issues. But tough times also create opportunities for those that are prepared allows us to keep the claws of recession away.