The new "haves versus the have-nots"

"Share the wealth" and "social engineering" are terms that we're hearing more today as there is a debate as to whether the U.S. is moving toward socialism. Let's take a different look at that--a non-political look--from a business standpoint.

I believe that companies will either be "haves" or "have-nots" based on this economy. It will be less possible everyday for companies to survive and there will be less of them fighting to do it as many disappear or give up.

That means that the old saying that you're either growing or dying is more true than ever. There will be less client orders, less demand, smaller budgets and fewer people at fewer clients making buying decisions.

A company has to be more aggressive, more entrepreneurial, more dedicated, more flexible and more nimble to survive and thrive. If your company can do that every day, every week, and in every transaction, you will "have" the opportunity to thrive. The vast majority of companies that can't, "have not" a chance.

"My industry is down 40% and no one is buying?"

We need to stop and think when we hear things like, "My industry is down 40% and no one is buying anything."

That statement makes no sense, it does, however, cry out for pity for the person saying it--which may be their intent. If that's not the intent, then consider this:

The industry may be down 40%, but that means 60% of the customers are still
buying.

Most of your competitors are either laying low or in the process of cutting their services or staff--that means an opportunity for you to gain market share.

If you could go from 3% to 5% market share in your industry, you'll be able to make up for much of the industry downturn. There will be less business to go around, but the aggressive, focused company can benefit in the long run and minimize the damage in the short term.