Only entrepreneurs have the flexibility, the freedom and the risk-everything ambition to find the path back to prosperity in a rapidly changing, technology-driven global economy.Let's hear it for all entrepreneurs worldwide!
Tough times call for smart action. And it's inspiring to see that there is an intelligent program available that identifies small businesses with the greatest potential -- offered with the support of the U.S. Small Business Administration's Emerging 200 (e200) Initiative.
e200 helps small inner-city businesses that have substantial potential for growth connect with high-level training, networking and other resources that can help them succeed. The program was launched in 2007 in Milwaukee and nine other cities. This spring it will be expanded to 15 more.
"Programs like e200 are important because they help people create capacity," says Eric Ness, SBA district director for Wisconsin. "That's something we must do if we're going to be competitive in a global economy."Small businesses will continue to help shape our future.
I am no expert on the hard times we have fallen upon but I am most certainly an expert in helping you get through this and cross borders with a product or service.
Here's what I have been thinking about lately relative to what's going on in the global marketplace. It's an awful thought but when someone dear to your heart passes away and several months later you reflect back on it, what comes to mind? Most likely the people who gathered around to give you comfort, strength and support. For example, it may have been Joe who showed up at the memorial service; Mary who called; Keith who sent kind notes; Lynn who visited with a plate of specially prepared food or Bob who came to hold your hand. It's that kind of care that leaves an indelible mark in your mind.
Now, more than ever, you must show the same depth of care to all your employees, vendors and customers. Make lots of calls, send emails of substance, visit in-person, deliver simple things to show you are in business for the long haul and matter. Continue to provide the best possible service or product at the lowest possible price and keep providing it.
Above all else: Do not hide! This is a time to make yourself more accessible and valuable than ever. Buckle down and do your best work -- no if, ands, or buts.
Launch a new business! Start a blog that talks about what you do best and how you can help those who read it. Do a podcast that sings the praises of how great your clients are and why. Create a video that chats up three tips to win new clients during a tough time and smack it up on YouTube. Give a complimentary presentation on a topic you know everything about (going global :-)! so attendees walk away with new knowledge.
And, in your spare time, re-visit these three articles that were written several months ago for additional ideas on how to keep going and thrive during turbulent times.
6 Tips to Shock Your Global Customers
5 Tips to Recession-Proof Global Marketing
Is Your Business Recession-Proof?
Let's call this the go, go, go time! Think Super(wo)man and that we are all here to save the day ... or the global economy. Working together, we will!
