In the choppy and uncertain economic climate of early 2015, while the outcomes of the UK election, Eurozone QE and the new Greek Government’s efforts to renegotiate its debts are still uncertain, investment in business and consumer spending are likely to remain muted.
Currencies fluctuate, commodity prices, not only oil, yoyo and business margins continue to be squeezed.
In these circumstances what can a small business to develop and grow rather than simply survive?
While it will be necessary to continue to keep a tight control on cash flow and to have a clear marketing strategy, the three main opportunities for growth are improving employee productivity, looking to new markets such as overseas, and innovation to offer a ground-breaking new product or service.
These drivers of growth rely on investment in marketing, equipment and R&D, but your competitors can copy this if they see it working.
Culture, however is more difficult to copy where getting it right is key to implementing change. People really are the greatest asset in a business.
In today’s highly competitive world change is the new normal and standing still is no longer an option.
Investing in people, their training, development and welfare is the best way of achieving growth as they are needed to implement the changes necessary to stay ahead of your competition.