We are knee-deep in what is now being called the “Great Recession.” I’ve read and heard various viewpoints
on things people can do, usually directed at the recently unemployed, to keep up their spirits and position themselves for success in today’s economic environment.

Cameron Herold, founder of BackPocket COO, recently showed me a list he shares with the CEOs he coaches, of things people can do to succeed in a recession. After studying his list, I came to the conclusion that not only do CEOs need a list, but so do the 90 percent of people who are still employed and trying to battle their way out of these troubling economic times. I’m referring to the everyday leaders and the employees who follow them.

So the economy is awful right now. Some say we’ve bottomed out, some say we are making a turn for the better and still others say watch out for more downsizing, missed earnings and layoffs to come. I say, “So what?” Focus on what you and your company— if you collect a paycheck for work, then yes, it is your company too—can do to thrive in this “Great Recession” while your competition complains about it. The Brand Integrity team and I came up with the top things we are doing and others can do to thrive during these times.

Let’s start with the obvious:

1. Keep your glass half full. Have a positive attitude.
2. Focus on the vital 20 percent. Typically, 20 percent of your efforts yield 80 percent of your desired results.
3. Create a hyper-focused work environment. For example, we start each day, even before checking our e-mail, by building our individual “Top 5” list of things we want to accomplish.
4. Make a “Stop Doing” list.
5. Reinforce important relationships. Make extra effort to connect with your best customers and prospects.
6. Add more value instead of lowering the price.
7. Recognize daily success around you. Find success, even if only incremental improvement, and recognize it!
8. Communicate, communicate, communicate.

These eight things to do to thrive in a recession are difficult to refute and are simple, though not easy. They take focus and energy. Pick the ones that seem most relevant to you and your company, and obsess about executing them. You may be astounded by the resulting increase in discretionary effort, a reserve of productivity in you and people around you. With encouragement, your company can create a healthy, high-performing work force that truly thrives, even during a “Great Recession”!