There are many small businesses that continue to thrive in the face of tough economic times. Some businesses, in fact, continue as though no economic downturn had occurred.
Car Insurance
Because laws requiring car insurance do not change based on a bad economy, this industry is not greatly affected by a recession. People might be insuring older, less expensive cars – but at least they are insuring something.
Funeral Homes
This is one industry that is likely going to be able to ride out most any economic storm.
People will continue to die – and while a very bad recession may cause some to choose fewer amenities, the large majority will not make funeral decisions based on the economy.
Health Care
This is another area that is pretty well immune from a recession. People will continue to get sick and will require care to get well, which is why this is a great business opportunity in a recession.
Those are just three examples of industries that can continue to thrive in a bad economy. If you are looking for businesses to start in a recession, you’ll need to select the type of business carefully.
There are some things that people will trim out of their budgets during these tough times. Opening a gym or tanning salon may not be the best idea.
On the other hand, people are going to continue to care for their children. For this reason, a day care center is great business opportunity in a recession.
There is no fool-proof formula for selecting a type of business to start in a recession that will do well. If there were such a formula, there would probably be a lot more successful businesses.
Keep in mind, however, that even during the best economic times some businesses do well and others do not. However, there is no “type” of business that is going to do well under bad management.
By the same token, a business that others have seen fail during a financial crisis has the potential to thrive under the right leader.
Here are a few tips to making your business successful, regardless of the economy.
Customer Service
You must learn how to keep your customers coming back. Repeat business is vital to most small businesses.
Couple that with the power of referrals and it is easy to see why the customer must be treated like royalty. Improving your customer service is a great business opportunity in a recession.
Added Value
Make your customers and clients feel like they are getting more for their money. Offering a “free with purchase” promotion is one way to achieve this.
Be creative and come up with ideas that are a perfect for your type of business.
Keeping Promises
The quickest way to lose a customer is to make promises that you can’t keep. Do what you say you’ll do 100% of the time.
Watch the Purse Strings
Many small businesses fail because the owners would not stop spending on unnecessary items.
There will always be time down the road for the extras. The start-up period is NOT the time for brand new office furniture and other unnecessary things.
Regardless of the type of business that you start, keeping customers happy is one way to help your business succeed. Of course, no business is a guaranteed winner – even in the best economic times.
