Every good sales person can become better in challenging times. Guidance now can increase motivation, keep sales from dropping inappropriately, as well as reduce turnover. Make good relationships even better through improved service. Let customers know you want all their business and that you are offering special incentives and package deals. Build deeper relationships with your customers.
Senior managers have the power to make things happen even in tough markets.
When purchasing departments have been ordered to cut spending, a senior manager can see that spending now can bring immediate savings. Redirect your efforts to engineers. As a clients' business slows, they often lay off manufacturing personnel, but not design engineers. Look for new applications or services that can be done with minimal capital outlay.