14 ‘Business as Usual’ Tips, Part 4

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In this series, Dan Beaulieu will share 14 “business as usual” tips for selling without visiting customers during the COVID-19 outbreak. In Part 4, Dan shares some age-old advice about running a business in turbulent times, including the need to dress for work and stay on a schedule, even while working from home.

Tip 7: Don’t Waste This Crisis

Apologies to those who might find this crass, but don’t blame me—blame this great business axiom on Paul Romer, a Stanford economist who once said, “A crisis is a terrible thing to waste.” Consider this statement because it’s true. History has proven that great innovations come out of great adversity, and right now, our adversity level is high. In times like these things, change happens quickly, and those who can quickly adjust or adapt will do very well. It’s at times like these when fortunes are made. What is your plan? What are you going to do during these ever-changing times?

Tip 8: Keep a Schedule

Being on your own and working at home is no excuse not to have a schedule. Get up at the same time every morning. Dress like you’re going to work (no one can take themselves seriously if they are dressed like Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski.) Set up time spots for yourself—time to check and answer emails, call customers, check in with the office, make cold calls (yes, cold calls), develop leads, use social media, and read and reflect. Here are two tips that will help you. One, before you quit for the night, make a list of what you want to accomplish tomorrow; two, review that list before you start your day, and don’t quit for the day until the list is complete. A schedule is your roadmap to success.

Editor’s Note: Read Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

Dan Beaulieu is president of D.B. Management Group.

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