Although many markets are starting to see an upturn in business and sales, most are still dealing with the downturn in the economy. From continually cutting costs to figuring out how to grow more efficiently, small to mid-size businesses are continually looking for ways to stay above water through this economic storm. As a small business ourselves, we want to help growing businesses sustain through to the good times again. Here are some tips and tricks from the experts:

1. Expand into Growth Areas

Many industries in times of economic turmoil have niches that benefit or even prosper by financial crises.

In real estate, new home sales goes down but foreclosure goes up. A dental office may see a decline in patients, yet the dentist will increase spending on marketing to offset these losses. In travel, international trips go down and local weekend getaways go up. Think about your industry and what areas may go up in a bad economy. Can you add a section to your Web site or will a direct mail campaign drive more business?

2. Cut Costs

There are always costs that can be cut out during the lean times. Bottled water? Drink from the tap. Industry magazine subscriptions? Let them expire. Turn off lights and computers every night and you will be surprised at how much you can save. Outsource. There are so many options when outsourcing and it's less expensive than hiring yourself.

3. Take Away Risk

During business downturns people are scared of risk. This is the time when you need professional services to help your organization. You need to make sure every dollar you spend is being done wisely. Instead of trying to create, print and mail 2000 pieces of marketing literature on your own, you should be using a company that can do the job right. Each time, every time, the first time. This will save you money as there is a big difference between hiring a to deliver your sales letters and you trying to print and mail them yourself. Do the things yourself that will not have a negative impact on your bottom line if you screw it up, but leave the skilled services to the professionals.

4. Work Smarter

Do not waste your time doing things you don't have to do. Use your time wisely and concentrate your efforts on getting the biggest return on your investment of time. So, to the extent you can avoid it, avoid getting caught up in minutiae, especially minutiae that does nothing to help you grow your business. According to Michael Gerber's The E- Myth. "Don't spend your time working in your business, work on your business." As such, one of the smartest things you can do is to use your time on things that make you money, and to the extent possible outsource or automate the other stuff.

5. Build your Brand and Customer Service Standards

When new clients come along they want to know you are the best option. It is hard to prove that without giving away too many secrets but think about getting certified by a third party or collecting testimonials. Maybe do some free charity projects in exchange for using them as public case studies of your skills. Make sure your customer service standards are high, your phone and web presence are your first impressions, make them count!

There are so many ways Exec-u-sist, along with our trusted partners, can help you with your growth and sustainability during tough economic seasons. Please contact us to share your story and see how we can help you!