Darrell Freeman, chairman of Zycor, Inc. and former chairman of the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, says in an op-ed piece in the Tennessean that he draws on his piloting experience to help him stay on course as an entrepreneur navigating the recession:
As an instrument rated pilot…I learned that if you get too distracted by a storm or commotion in the cockpit, you’re in danger of neglecting vital indicators, getting off course or even stalling the airplane. So today, amidst the perpetual distractions of negative media reports heaped at small-business owners, I offer a message of resilience that centers around one basic principle: keep flying the plane.
Entrepreneurs today must keep a steady hand on their control sticks, make the necessary adjustments, and have confidence in their ability to maneuver through this economic storm and land whole on the other side.
Freeman goes on to highlight the four principles for business success that are keeping his business on course: quality, team, basic marketing tactics, and innovation. Some good advice that is well worth the read.
Innovation is the key! Not only in your products and services but the systems you have in place to market these services. For instance small business owners having employees working in and out of the office can now explore the use of cloud computing. GoEverywhere has a new webtop in beta which small business owners can explore for free… The benefits for business owners are vast, one is the result in more productivity as employees start accessing their webtop from any computer, home, office, or netbook!
Jeff,
Thanks for the link. I think the key is to never lose confidence in oneself and to continue working on your business. Eventually, the economy will turn around and this provides great opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Freeman’s four principles for business success are great. No one is going to check a business out if the quality is poor. An entrepreneur cannot run the entire business by himself, everyone needs some help. Basic marketing and use of social media helps to get your business out there. Lastly, innovation and creativity help to bring customers, and make your business more appealing.
Hey Jeff, thanks for sharing your presentation of the views on maneuvering through the storm. It’s rather interesting when you envision a business as to the analogy in life. The storm may become rough at times, but if you are confident in your skills and just “try” and persevere, the storm will eventually become more tame to your nature. Essentially, your desire to promote a genuine product or service will only strengthen through the rough times, and in the end more people can benefit from your gains. A win-win situation. Well, keep up the good work, and thanks!!