Then there's transparency to your customers, prospects and staff. You don't have to show them your books, but don't be afraid to share where the business is at and where it's going – and how they're all an integral part of your business.

We have a fairly flat organization and welcome all input from every team members. No idea is too silly or small. Sometimes “the powers that be” can drink their own Kool Aid a little too much and you need someone to slap it out of their hand. We also offer creative and flexible benefits in times when salaries need to be kept in check – anything we can do to avoid layoffs.

Lastly, you have to be a bold thought leader in your space and keep the marketing/PR machine revved. Show no fear (well a little is okay) and really know what the hell you're talking about with prospects and clients – know your space and know your magic schtuff. Otherwise, your credibility is lost and the business along with it.

Enough early morning ranting…

The fact that you know the other side through your VP of Marketing positions makes your feedback even more important to us. We love hearing from you! Maybe we’ll get a chance to work together some day.

Thank you for reading and for the great comments. I love your attitude! We wrote a few posts a month or so ago on why the marketing/PR shouldn’t stop, *especially* in a time like this. I’m happy to hear that it doesn’t fall completely on deaf ears.

Your insights are really, really helpful. We haven’t opened the books but we’ve been honest about challenges, changes and goals. We do our best to balance transparency with business acumen.

My favorite line of all – “hugging your customers (not just servicing them), hugging your staff (figuratively please, or HR will have a stack of grievances)…”

Great “schtuff” – thank you!

Then there’s transparency to your customers, prospects and staff. You don’t have to show them your books, but don’t be afraid to share where the business is at and where it’s going – and how they’re all an integral part of your business.

We have a fairly flat organization and welcome all input from every team members. No idea is too silly or small. Sometimes “the powers that be” can drink their own Kool Aid a little too much and you need someone to slap it out of their hand. We also offer creative and flexible benefits in times when salaries need to be kept in check – anything we can do to avoid layoffs.

Lastly, you have to be a bold thought leader in your space and keep the marketing/PR machine revved. Show no fear (well a little is okay) and really know what the hell you’re talking about with prospects and clients – know your space and know your magic schtuff. Otherwise, your credibility is lost and the business along with it.

Enough early morning ranting…