Business Plan Consulting

Friday, January 27

HOW TO COPE WITH BUSINESS DOWNTURN


Question:
I have been running a small retail business for the past 10 years and for the first time I am truly worried about the future. Our sales have been dropping and we feel it is attributable to this weak economy, which seems to be getting worst.  What advice do you offer?

Answer:
A downturn doesn’t have to spell disaster for your small business, however.  Good financial management practices will help you weather even the worst of economic times, and be ready to capitalize on new opportunities will inevitably come with good times return.  For solutions read more.




Broad economic slowdowns greatly affect small businesses, including those in relatively stable industries or geographic locations.  Individuals tend to cut back on discretionary spending while corporations curb routine activities, delay major purchases, and shelve new initiatives. 

For many small businesses with limited resources, these and other factors often combine to pressure bottom lines past the breaking point, creating a domino effect of other dilemmas such as a credit crunch or layoffs.


Begin with the basics.  Even when times are terrific, no small business can survive without good recordkeeping, budgeting, cash flow monitoring, and credit management.

Consult your bank.  Lenders can tap their vast experience in economic cycles to advise you on issues specific to your business and industry.  Depending on your projected long-term expenses, consider arranging a line of credit in case a cash flow gap occurs.

Be on good terms with your creditors.  Falling behind on payments is never the answer, even if it’s “just this once.”  Creditors will be more amenable to renegotiating terms to small businesses they consider to be conscientious and reliable.

Watch your receivables.  By the same token, you need to stay on top of any outstanding debts to your company, particularly problem accounts.  Be firm, but also willing to negotiate where appropriate. 

Scrutinize your spending.  Rather than arbitrarily slashing your budget, strive to spend only on those things that have a justifiable positive effect on your business.  That will make it easier to redirect money to areas that enhance business performance.

Step up your review of financials.  Assessing your reports weekly or biweekly rather than monthly will put you in a better position to make informed decisions.  Similarly, a monthly or quarterly review your business plan enables you to adjust your strategy and direction to changing market conditions.

Keep marketing in the mix.  Look for cost-effective ways to keep your company visible to current customers and potential new markets.  They may be ready to restart their spending long before the headlines proclaim an end to the economic crisis.

Internet Marketing -  Take advantage of all the opportunities offered by using your website, blog and social media to promote your business.  Consider mobile devices in the mix and consider sites like Groupon.

4 comments:

  1. Real encouraging info this is. as when business is down you don't know what to do. Free Business Proposal Template

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  2. Having turned down in a business proposal can happen to anyone. Big or small business gets hit by crisis. One of the best ways to have a successful business is to be stable with the financial aspects. Asking advice from business plan consultant from time to time can also help and guide you with the growth of your business.

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  3. Your tips are enormous and they're indeed going to be very helpful to save the his company. I suggest too that he gets some small business management consulting to further help him with his dilemma.

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  4. Internet marketing is one of the most efficient marketing trends now. If your business is near bankrupt, make sure you get online marketing services to help you save what's left of your company.

    ReplyDelete