In the heyday of the economy, many projects at large corporations (and small businesses) failed because managers got distracted by new ideas and all the fast-paced buzz of innovation. In our team’s research at Behance, we have learned that most ideas never happen because other ideas get in the way. However, in a recession, business leaders are able to focus more on key businesses that are in dire need of attention. The increased level of focus (from a decreased level of noise) will strengthen any business. For all of us middle-managers across industries, we can use the recession as a way of focusing our employees and our managers on the most crucial areas of development.

 

When you’re running full-speed ahead on all cylinders, it is easier for sub-par talent to blend in. Similarly, it is easier for those who lack passion in their job to rationalize their efforts with the high salaries and/or bonuses (or commissions) that they will receive. In a fast-paced economy, the unfortunate outcome is a team that is misaligned. In contrast, a recession helps us distinguish who is truly passionate about their work from those that are just collecting the paycheck (hint: those who just care about the paycheck will start disengaging). As a manager, you should use this valuable new “lens” to make changes in your team. Suddenly, it becomes easier to identify who should be promoted and who should be let go.

 

Sometimes, when there is less to lose, we become more comfortable defying the bounds of bureaucracy. Given the lower expectations overall, now is a good time to test little changes and new marketing slogans that have been percolating in your mind. One company I came across has been inviting customers in for “focus groups” to test new ideas. Even though their customers are holding back from any new purchases, the company is taking the unusual step of inviting them into the development process and getting their feedback.