On this momentous election day of 2008, I just hope everyone who can, will cast their vote. That’s all I’ll say about it because of the constant bombardment is really wearing thin.  I am really glad the campaigning and polls coverage is almost over.  Now..on to my own business commentary for today.

Boy, everywhere I look, read, and hear, if it’s not election coverage, it’s all talk about the economy. It is a tough time for businesses of every size, but it’s especially challenging to small businesses, like Voiceovers. Face it, we’re our own one-person armies working steadily to battle the wild economic changes afoot.

Some, depending on their own personal financal or mortgage loan scenarios, or even what part of the world they reside,  have been impacted more than others. Let’s say you really need to invest in new studio equipment, voice training, that new demo or can’t get a loan for one reason or another to help your cash flow, pay off the credit cards, send your kid to college, etc. 

And oh, yea. Stores have holiday stuff out already. Ugh!

I personally feel I need to shift my view from the perspective “preventing” a recession, (because, guess what…we are in one) to the strategic position of just dealing with it.

Alot of small business folks I know, including voiceovers are fearful, waiting for the OK signs to appear, somewhere.

I read a great quote recently about what small businesses are going through, the “fear” is just an acronym for “False Evidence Appearring Real”.

So, what can we do to survive AND thrive?

1)     Acknowedge fear, if you are fearful, and then press ON!

2)    Be patient. The credit market fixes will take time, and it’s out of your control.

3)    Keep advertising and promoting as usual.

4)    Take some risks.

5)    Be observant and listen to others who may be afraid. They may be the weaker ones who won’t  stay in business, which may present an opportunity.

6)    Cash is king. Hang on to it!