Many businesses have weathered the storms of industry change, even in times of financial instability. In 2008, the Great Recession dramatically slowed down the construction trade. Electrical companies were closing their doors left and right. It was an unpredictable, scary, and difficult time, but people pulled through.

We have all heard the saying “only the strong survive.” The intestinal fortitude or “guts” of a business can be measured by its survival through unexpected, unfortunate events like war, financial market crashes, pandemics, and grid blackouts or shutdowns. We need to keep in mind that every generation — from baby boomers to milllennials — has experienced similar trials and tribulations. Many businesses not only survived, but also thrived during those tough times.

Nevertheless, what do you do when you just don’t know what to do? Well, I don’t believe people inspire us. I believe they motivate us to inspire ourselves. Our success does not depend upon someone else’s actions. We must push through and thrive in harsh environments and situations. Consider the echinacea plant. It is nearly impossible to kill this plant. It doesn’t matter what you do or don’t do to it — echinacea somehow finds a way to live. We must apply this need for survival to all aspects our lives, including business.

The following are some tips and motivational gold nuggets to put in your tool pouch for use during bad and good times.

1. If possible, always be prepared for the worst of times. I’m not suggesting you should panic or become a doomsday prepper. However, it is always prudent that we (as business owners, managers, and employees) be prepared for a rainy day — and not only a rainy day but an outright flood.

2. Make sure to take care of the employees who are willing to weather the storm along with you. This is when the cream will rise to the top. Your summertime soldiers will disappear for seemingly greener pastures, but your hard-core believers will stay and batten down the hatches with you.

3. Advertise in a way that ensures your existing and potential customers know your business is going to be OK. Send a message of strength to the general public that your business is doing just fine and that you are hiring.

4. Protect your processes. Don’t lose your cool and panic. Continue to refine your methods, and, most importantly, stay the course.

5. Watch out for any unneeded expenses. Be diligent in cleaning up your profit and loss statements.

6. Be innovative. Look for new ways to develop relationships with companies and customers. Don’t forget to communicate with existing clients that you are still going strong and ready to help out whenever they need your services.

We are all experiencing an unprecedented period in history. It’s frightening, but it’s also a great opportunity to express your business as a stable pillar of the community. Be encouraged to make the best out of a questionable time, and I hope to see you on the other side of it.           

Talbot is a licensed, master electrician in Georgia, where he was born and raised. He has been in the industry for 19 years and is currently the operations manager for Mister Sparky Atlanta, where he oversees a team of technicians. In his spare time, he plays with his kids, volunteers, and enjoys flipping houses. He can be reached at [email protected].