Recent events have significantly affected the economic climate over the past month. That’s undeniable.

Social distancing measures and stay home orders have been implemented for everyone’s wellbeing, which means that in-person functions like tradeshows, conferences, and networking events have been canceled. For B2B companies that rely on these face-to-face events to drive revenue, this creates an indisputable barrier.

So, what does that mean? Has a portion of your future business been permanently lost? Are there still deals out there to be made right now? How do you adopt a revenue growth management mindset during these unpredictable times? Are your organizational objectives for the year still attainable?

The world has changed, but the goal has not.

What do we do now? What is going to happen in the future? These “mid novel coronavirus” days we all have these questions, and some will use their very best insights to predict the future.

One crucial thing to take note of – while we haven’t been through this circumstance before, we have been through times of uncertainty, fear, and turmoil before. We have come through those times stronger and better for having had the experience. We’ll do it again this time.

Two weeks ago, I wrote in this blog that the chance of a recession being triggered by the COVID-19 as being “Probable.” This situation has changed very quickly. At this point, we are way past “Probable.” We are in the early stages of a recession. You heard it here second. The stock market, which is always about the future, was the first to tell us that a recession is upon us.
 
The questions, at this point and in my mind are, how bad will it be and how long will it last?

Motivational speakers will tell you that we are constantly surrounded by opportunities and all you need to do to is just reach out and seize them. In fact, this advice is so common, that the phrase “carpe diem” has been around for over 2,000 years and has ingrained itself into virtually every aspect of popular culture.

The first month of 2020 has been full of all types of news - good, bad, and extraordinary. The recent news about the passing of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and seven others is sad beyond words. Regardless of whether you are a fan of basketball, you will find Kobe’s principals inspirational and hopefully will help you think more about “what’s next”.

The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” - Kobe Bryant

We can do something special today for those we appreciate, to inspire people to be great in whatever they want to do. We have the tools and means to do this, regardless of our location.

2020 will have many major events that will influence how we do business. The possibility of recession is still lurking in the shadows. An election of generational importance will shape America’s future. The Olympic Games should offer a summer distraction. 2020 will be tough to predict, and many say a wild ride.

This is important because each person on your team has a different world view about what the future will become. Some believe there is little hope while others believe in unlimited possibilities. It is just as important for “belief in the future” alignment as it is to have the sales and marketing activities aligned.

I'm looking forward to the coming year. I can’t remember a time when there has been more opportunity for new adventures. This coming year will provide more and those with the right plans, processes, and aligned teams in place will leap forward.

Let’s take a look at predictions from the past…

Businesses exist to make a profit. And price is a key component in profitability. Regarding businesses in the for-profit sector, it has long been said, “If there is no margin (no profit), there is no mission.” While other goals may exist, creating and sustaining profitability is critically important.

Before developing your plan as a CRO, CXO or business owner, or salesperson, it is important to reflect your best self and offer opportunities for others to see “social proof” to show you are who you say you are.

On the one hand, someone who believes they are a VIP and LinkedIn is beneath them may prefer to be invisible, with no information or photo.  On the other hand, those who have a purpose and hope to influence others understand that a platform such as LinkedIn provides an opportunity to share their wealth of thoughts, make recommendations and lead.

Example: Bill Gates is not likely to use LinkedIn as a connection/communication tool, but he regularly posts activities and articles. Over 22 million people follow Bill Gates’s activities. It is true that while not every post will be viewed by his followers, they have said in public “Bill Gates is remarkable, I am interested in learning more and potentially share his posts.”