Dealing with Disruption

2021 has been a lesson on disruption and early signs are that 2022 will follow suit. In this blog we look at principles that will help us navigate choppy waters.

Keep your ear to the ground

Forewarned is forearmed as they say. In a changing landscape we want to keep our feelers out for what we might have to deal with next. For example retailers who were first to see the supply problems that have hit the economy and invested in stock early, have put themselves in the best position to ride out shortages.

Find time to be in communication with suppliers, consumers and competitors and find out what they are reporting coming at them.

run a tight ship

All businesses benefit from being well managed, but in a period of uncertainty and disruption, the details can make the difference. Often this means being on top of the nitty gritty, having the bookkeeping up to date so you know if you have been losing money, knowing what bills are coming up, knowing the schedules you need to keep and all of the myriad of details that go into running a business.

When the unexpected hits us we need to be able to move fast with certainty.

Keep strong relationships

At this time we may well need the goodwill of our staff, our suppliers and our customers. This is a time to invest in that goodwill. Look after your business community and most likely it will look out for you.

Keep planning for the future

A strong plan and vision for the business helps enormously in times of trouble and uncertainty. It motivates people and maintains an outward focus. On top of that, it creates a positive energy that will keep attracting customers.