“When written in Chinese, the word “crisis” is composed of two characters-one represents danger, and the other represents opportunity.” -John F Kennedy

Have crisis in your business? (And I’m not just talking about your 401k statement in the past week!) If so, history tells us that now is the best time to become famous with customers, your company and your industry. Handle your obstacles well, and you will come out better on the other side. Below are steps to help you turn a tough time into a great opportunity.

  1. Remain confident in your ability – Remember, your knowledge and skill is your greatest asset and one obstacle does not change that.
  2. Assess – The problem often isn’t the real problem. Question yourself with who, what, why, when and how, and you will often find you were solving the wrong problem.
  3. Reach out – You can’t go it alone. The good-will you have banked up comes with a return. But only if you use it.
  4. Control Emotion – Remaining calm under pressure is what separates the great from the average. Emotion often gets in the way of logic. And you need logic (with some emotion) to make sound decisions.
  5. Get moving – The quicker you solve the real issue, the quicker you can reap the rewards that come with a learning experience. Don’t delay.

So this week, remember that great leaders are made in crisis. And by learning more from failures than even success, you will be given opportunities that wouldn’t exist in perfect times.

Sales Coach and Business Consultant Brian Sullivan,CSP is the author of the book, 20 Days to the TOP- How the PRECISE Selling Formula Will Make You Your Company’s Top Sales Performer in 20 Days or Less. Sign up for his free 7 Part Video Series on Sales and Negotiations at www.preciseselling.com.