We all go through tough times. People will remember when you were there to help them when times were tough. If you see a potential customer having a harder time, think of the long-term value of giving aid. That might mean taking smaller orders, giving good credit risks some credit now or other helpful things. In the long run, that caring strategy can pay rich dividends.
Relationships are most important in today's world.
Be careful that you don't cut muscle when cutting fat. You have to focus on those areas that are going to produce revenue for you now and into the future. Cut out the extra parties and trips in first-class. Don't cut the training sessions that build critical business skills. Demand and hold your vendors accountable for performance now more than ever.