Cashflow and Customers: A Recipe for Resilience in Tough Times
It’s time to shift from grind to strategy.
Gather your team:
- Frontline: They’re the pulse of your business, interacting with clients and suppliers daily. They understand short-term needs and challenges.
- Visionaries: They see the bigger picture, analyzing long-term objectives and risks.
Together, assess your ecosystem:
- Cashflow: Is it robust enough to weather storms? Can it support your clients and maintain flexibility?
- Supply chain: How strong is it? Could a few client or supplier losses impact you heavily?
- Client base: Who are your high-value clients? Are you over-reliant on any one?
- Industry trends: What challenges are your clients facing? How can you help them thrive?
Remember, clients are your partners:
- Focus on protecting them: Your success is intertwined. Offer solutions, support them through hardships, and show them you’re in their corner.
- Identify underserved prospects: Those struggling with similar challenges might be receptive to your proactive approach and client-centric values.
- Beware of cost-chasers: Low-cost clients are often high-maintenance and offer little long-term value. Focus on building strong, sustainable relationships.
Cashflow tips:
- Invoice promptly and encourage early payment: Offer discounts or flexible payment options.
- Identify late payers: Work with them to create manageable payment plans.
- Consider technology: Streamline invoicing and payment processes.
Remember, what benefits your clients benefits you. By building strong relationships, weathering challenges together, and adapting to industry trends, you can create a resilient business that thrives even in the toughest times.