The opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized business (SMEs) owners are typically praised for their ability to lead agile businesses that adapt to changing market conditions and grow, resulting in sustained business success. Whether in times of prosperity or adversity, they are often the trailblazers, breaking new ground and developing innovative products, services and solutions to address opportunities or problems quickly, paving the way for longevity in the marketplace .
Smart leaders understand that operating based on the status quo is not an option, instead adhering to the mantra that change is vital to their existence and success. Due to their size, SMBs have a significant advantage when it comes to embracing change, as executives often identify earlier positive/negative trends within their customer base, which are typically indicative of the global market at large. This knowledge enables them to act quickly by making informed business decisions/adjustments to meet the current business situation.
As entrepreneurs and SME leaders remain relevant, they should be aware of three key events that can signal a shift in business operations: shifts in the economy, divergences in the competitive landscape, and fluctuations in the job market.
Related topics: How agility and resiliency help small and medium-sized businesses succeed
1. Economic Conditions
Tracking economic conditions is central to business operations as inflation, interest rates, tax rates, supply/demand, consumer confidence and more drive many aspects of business operations – from product prices and employee wages to advertising/marketing and business growth – and affect the Bottom of a business impact line.
When executives keep an eye on economic conditions, they are better able to make informed decisions to increase profits and reduce losses. In good economic times, for example, expanding the range of products/services, raising prices and increasing the advertising/marketing budget can all contribute to increasing sales. In a weak economy, a greater focus on controlling costs, streamlining processes and capitalizing on missed opportunities can help companies weather the storm.
In both scenarios, people-oriented business leaders recognize that economic conditions have a significant impact on employees from a professional and personal perspective. As such, caring for their employees – a company’s most valuable asset – is paramount, including financial assistance/perks, clear communication and mental health/wellness programs and unwavering support. When employees are treated as valued members of a team, engagement and performance increase, which has a positive impact on the bottom line.
2. Competitive landscape
While business leaders should always be aware of the competitive landscape and make decisions accordingly, there are certain situations that can justify changes in business operations that can be a differentiating factor in the marketplace. Businesses can explore ways to invest in new programs such as B. the launch of a new product/service, the development of brand ambassadors, the formation of strategic alliances, the promotion of industry-related technologies and the reinforcement of customer service initiatives.
Even if there are budget constraints, there are still opportunities for SMEs to make changes that help them stand out from the crowd, for example by positioning themselves as thought leaders on editorial opportunities, speaking at trade shows and hosting panel discussions moderated by trade associations. Businesses can also become more active on social media platforms to increase their influence in the market. Volunteering in local communities is another way not only to give back, but also to increase a company’s brand awareness and reputation.
Significant shifts in the competitive landscape can impact employees who may wish to move to perceived better opportunities. SMEs need to create and foster a corporate culture that encourages employee retention through training and development programs, mentoring programs and defined career paths. They should show how SMEs not only feel like family, but also how they offer better access to management and faster career advancement opportunities with more responsibility.
Related: The tech landscape has changed, and it’s about time tech leadership changed too.
3. Labor market
Even before the impact of the big retirement and/or big reshuffle, SMEs were familiar with the challenges of the labor market. Historically, they have competed with larger companies for top talent, but the still tight labor market continues to make it difficult to attract and retain employees. According to the latest report from US Bureau of Labor Statisticsthe number of terminations was almost 4 million in March.
Although SME leaders are conditioned to the challenges, this should inspire many companies to change their recruiting strategies to attract top talent. For example, implementing employee referral programs; using social media to reach qualified candidates; Improving the process for treating applicants with respect; and offering internships that lead to tenure are ways to fill vacancies.
Of course, one of the best ways to address the job market is to create a great culture that employees want to be a part of, leading to stronger employee retention and a pipeline of job seekers. When employees are mentored with programs related to health/wellness from an individual and professional perspective; financial benefits; retraining/advanced training; career paths within the company; and flexible/hybrid scheduling brings out the best in them and leads to a loyal, long-term workforce.
As entrepreneurs and SME executives position their companies for the second half of 2023, they should assess their business operations to identify areas where change can be leveraged to meet volatile market conditions and achieve optimal results and thus their agility and continue to demonstrate resilience in the economy.
