Business uncertainty is one of the most overwhelming things entrepreneurs need to endure every day. Just as you are getting comfortable with running your startup, challenges always seem to appear from nowhere. One day you could be making hundreds of dollars in profits. The next, you could be struggling with securing even a single client. Well, that’s what most of us learned during the 2019 to 2020 pandemic.
They say that to be a successful entrepreneur. You must be a risk taker. However, as markets change and businesses evolve, uncertainty is a constant problem that many entrepreneurs have to deal with. The good news is that there are numerous ways you can overcome business uncertainty. I have been where you are – always worried that something bad can send you out of business. But with adequate preparation and planning, business uncertainty is manageable and can even be used as a growth opportunity.
What is Business Uncertainty?
These are unpredictable scenarios where your business anticipates an unforeseen risk. Business uncertainty can be caused by a wide range of factors, such as environmental, technological, economic and even political.
A good example of business uncertainty is the covid-19 pandemic. No one ever anticipated that a worldwide outbreak would force many businesses to close up shop. This pandemic was an unforeseen risk that consumed many large and small enterprises.
Business uncertainty is grouped into several levels. There is the first level, where the enterprise faces a predictable future. These are usually normal occurrences like the launch of multiple locations. Through planning, such a future can easily be managed and controlled. The second level is where a business foresees alternate futures, such as competition.
There is a third level which is a bit more intense. An example of such uncertainty is when customers demand newer products or better rates. Finally, we have the last level – true uncertainty, whereby the business cannot predict what will happen.
Irrespective of the level of business uncertainty that you are currently facing, it’s a good idea always to be prepared. Assumptions have to be made, and strategies to deal with such matters need to be enforced.
How Can Entrepreneurs Navigate Business Uncertainty?
For the past 12 years that I have been actively engaging in multiple businesses, there are a couple of tricks that I have learnt on how to navigate business uncertainty. Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or have recently launched your startup, these tips can help see you through the most uncertain times.
Make More Money Now
As an entrepreneur, you should never get too comfortable with how much you are currently earning. Yes, it may seem like a lot. But when disaster strikes, if you have made a lot of money, you can continue running your business as you adapt to the new changes.
When business is booming, go all the way in. Work around the clock to generate as much revenue as possible. This will ease any worries you may have about economic uncertainty. If it’s marketing, make sure that you reach a larger audience so that you can get many leads. With enough money in your business bank account, you can survive anything thrown your way.
Learn How to Spend Carefully
I’m not advising you to cut all your expenses. But it would be best to learn how to budget and spend appropriately. Whether running a startup or an established business, careful expenditure guarantees survival even when an unforeseen hurdle comes your way. It’s advisable for you to adopt a saving culture.
Compete for Better Talent
With a brilliant team by your side, you can overcome any business uncertainty. I always encourage my clients to develop strong relationships with their employees. You need to cultivate trust and loyalty. Don’t treat your team as mere employees. When you show them value, they will reciprocate it by ensuring your business stays afloat even during tough times.
Focus Heavily on ROI
Whether it’s marketing, advertising or product development, everything your business does needs to bring an adequate return on investment. Such an approach minimizes losses and promotes better expenditure or utilization of resources. You will be much safer from uncertainty if your business is generating higher ROI.
Pay Attention to Product-Market Fit
Consumer patterns are constantly evolving. To avoid finding yourself in an unpredictable scenario where clients are no longer interested in your products, you must ensure that what you are selling always satisfies the market. Listen to your customers’ feedback and implement it in your products. This will guarantee continuous demand.
Explore Different Revenue Streams
If you want to stay ahead of business uncertainty, you should always be exploring newer revenue streams. To emphasize what I have mentioned earlier, don’t get too comfortable in the same place for too long. Find new ways of making money while still retaining your current business. So that when the unexpected happens, you will always have another source of income.
Develop a Dynamic Business Strategy
Because markets are always changing, you need to develop a dynamic business strategy. Your business should be flexible enough to accommodate predictable and unpredictable changes.
List Uncertainty Factors that May Impact Your Industry
Sometimes it can really pay off if you can identify some uncertainty factors that can affect your business or niche. With a little bit of research, you should be able to identify some common factors. When you list these factors, you can come up with strategies on how to overcome them. As a result, you will always be ready for the worst.
Final Thoughts on How to Deal with Business Uncertainty
Uncertainty is one of the main risks of running a business. However, once you learn to deal with uncertainty, you will never have to worry constantly about the future. As a skilled entrepreneur, I have always been passionate about helping others succeed. If you need to learn more about dealing with business uncertainty, you can contact me for professional consultation.
