::: Anyone else find it curious that the only people left out there who seem to be debating whether or not the U.S. economy is “officially” in a recession are the talking heads on the TV networks? For the rest of us working stiffs, it’s pretty much a no-brainer. But it’s time to stop crying in your latte, stand up, do some jumping jacks, and read the first installment in our five-part series of business tips guaranteed to pump (clap) you up.

Tip No. 1: Get personal – Tough economic times can bring out the worst in your competitors. Paranoia, intimidation, savage business tactics – you name it. Case in point, one of our competitors recently chastised our company and some other local agencies publicly for having the audacity to (gasp) give our cell numbers to clients. On the contrary, we were dumbstruck that in this age of instant communication a business partner wouldn’t want his/her client to be able to reach them at a moment’s notice. Our advice? In good times or bad times, it’s time to be accessible. Our clients can reach us 24/7/365, whenever and however it’s convenient for them. Remember, it’s not about you – it’s about your customer.