I’m sure in the last year, if you had a nickle for each time you had to answer “So how’s business?” you’d have had your own stimulus package.
It’s an awkward question in any economy because it’s not always immediately obvious how to respond. Should we be honest and say that things have really tanked lately? Or bluff our way through it by telling people we are fine when we really aren’t? Or has business really been great for you, and you want to say so without people thinking you are lying?
The good news is that you can answer the question. No matter the answer. If business isn’t good, obviously you don’t want to outright lie and say things are going great. But nor do you want to undermine confidence by telling people you aren’t sure where you’re going to find the money to cover payroll this month.
Good business people thrive in any economy. They are successful because they plan ahead, watch the trends in their business and the overall economy and adjust their plans to deal with change. If you aren’t doing that in your own business, I strongly encourage you to seek out a business coach to help make those contingency plans. When you have them in place, you will have a more solid business. And as a side benefit, you have the perfect answer to the awkward question.
“Of course, the economy has had an impact. But we have some good contingency plans in place. For example, we are doing the following…”
It’s honest. Of course your business has been affected. But you show you have a plan in place and are implementing it. And talking about one specific change gives you a way to brag about yourself, and possibly attract a new client.
And if business is growing like gangbusters? Well, obviously something is working. Identify it (if you haven’t already) and talk about it. That gives people confidence that you are an agile business person who can plan for and deal with any economic condition.
Good planning, agile marketing and a solid analysis of your business will enable you to thrive in any economy.
So stop dreading the question! You have a good answer. Use it to your advantage.
Tags: communication, reputation