It’s all fine and well to say…

But do you have the information you need to do business at this unique moment? Here are some things to consider as you go forward with your plans:

• Stop listening to the talking heads in the magic box. Remember the bankers and economists on TV are NOT wedding photographers and don’t know your business. You do, so don’t waste time second guessing a business expense that you wouldn’t have thought twice about 6 months ago. Chances are if you needed it then you’ll need it now. But do know the difference between needs and wants.
• Go straight to the horse’s mouth. Take some time to ask your own clients what they do for a living and work into the conversation a question about how the economy is affecting them. Having this type of information can give you some excellent insight and may prove invaluable as you make discretionary decisions going forward.
• Are you really being pinched? Do some research and look at your business closely. Are you making goals? Is your calendar filling up? Is the recession even hitting you? It’s important to remember that a recession is not a cookie cutter and it will affect every individual and business differently. Closely assess your own business finances.
• Get to know me! Go out and make some friends in the industry, attend a get together, go to a convention, join the chamber of commerce, get a Facebook account, start twittering. We’ve turned a business corner and more than ever business is about relationships and networking than at any other time in recorded history. With your new finger on the pulse you just may gain some insight into how others in your market are doing as well.