Q: My company is really suffering with the economy lately. Do I have to take it apart now and put it back together when things improve?
A: Think of your company like a car. During tough times, you can afford to take off the GPS, the fancy trim, the hood ornament, the nice sound system, the leather, etc. The car can still move – it’s just not the PREFERRED form for the car, right? Make sure the car can still be quick and nimble. So DON’T TAMPER with the engine, the transmission, and the tires – and conserve gas (cash). Cut back the business everywhere you can but leave the critical drive train components that deliver your brand’s reputation. If you strip the business down like the car example, and you cannot afford the gas to run it, then you have to park the car. Yes, when things improve, once you have gas money, you can purchase fuzzy dice once again. – M