Shift happens...

This is a reprint from the March, 2009 Chamber Voice

I was delighted to hear from quite a few people in regards to my last month article: “Change the recipe, change the results...!” For some, it hit a nerve. “What about if my old recipe has always given me good results?” or “I have been in business for 12 years and if that economic mess would not have happened, my recipe would still be good. It’s not my fault if it’s not working anymore!” Well, guess what “Shift happens!” You cannot stay static in this world. If you are not ready to deal with shifts in financial markets, shifts in consumer behaviour, shifts in policies, shifts in technology, shifts in government, shifts in weather (how about this winter), you are not ready to be or remain in business.

But, you’ll say, “I did not see it coming!”. It’s not about seeing it coming, it’s about being ready when it comes. Business intelligence is keeping your ear to the ground, it’s about networking (yes, even with your competitors), and it’s about planning. I asked a few people about their current business plans, their succession plans, and their marketing and financial plans. Only 1 out of 7 even had a basic idea of what they wanted to do in the future. One thing for sure, I cannot tell you what the future holds for you, but I can certainly can tell you who holds your future... do I really have to tell you?

Ok, so, that’s encouraging, we are starting to communicate...but I want more. So, I opened a new email account: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and I am challenging all members to send me their questions, concerns, issues along with suggestions, solutions and opinions. I will personally answer your emails and will select a few that can benefit other members and print them in the next issue of the Chamber Voice. Eventually, that will also be integrated in our new website. Each month, the business with the most interesting comment, question or idea will receive FREE advertising in our new E-flash for a month.(See FORUM in this issue). Don’t be surprised if I bounce some questions back to you. No, I don’t have all the answers, but I believe we collectively have them.

Our Membership will soon reach 500. Conservatively, that would mean well over 7,500 years of business experience within our ranks. Why don’t we put this awesome resource to good use? Why not develop this virtual “Think-tank” for the common benefit of all our businesses? Doesn’t cost anything to exchange ideas!

So, we need a shift in mentality, which requires an openness of mind and a sharing attitude. Let’s build our own market intelligence, strengthen our entire business community. If we accept the fact that shifts will happen

Mike Bourcier

Executive Director