Is the recession over? That depends on who you ask. Some say yes, some say no, some just don't know. Amidst that much uncertainty about the present, it's hard to look too far into the future. But to succeed, you must. Here's a suggestion -- don't worry about whether the recession is over or not. Instead spend your energy on ensuring you have a great plan to move into the future. Just as important, make sure everyone in your organization knows what that plan is and knows what makes them vital in that plan's success.

There are several lists available highlighting companies who were founded during recession or who struggled through recession or depression and survived and even excelled. Most impressive though are companies founded during depression. Companies such as Revlon (1932), GE (1873), and Hewlett Packard (1939) were founded by forward looking people who did not let the terrible economic situation of their time dissuade them.

Managing Through Recession - What the Survivors Do
By Pam Kennett

We are all very concerned about the recession. Every day in the media we are reminded of how gloomy the economic outlook is and how difficult it will be for businesses throughout 2009 and beyond. However, research undertaken by McKinsey and Accenture of the results of the 1900 to 1991 recession showed that companies that invested in their business gained market share, forged new customer relations, strengthened product and service positions and established a platform for future growth and expansion. Moreover they found that companies that drew away from the competition during a downturn maintained that lead beyond the recession into the future. How is it that some companies don't just survive recessions, they thrive?

Recessions are normal so get used to them and plan

Traditionally a recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of decreasing GDP. Statistically we have experienced about nine recessions since World War II, which means we have lived in recessionary times one year out of every six. We should be used to recessions, but the mere mention of the word in any official capacity sends shivers up the spine of even the toughest businessperson.

I always encourage readers to study and read beyond purely leadership issues. A leader should be knowledgeable on a wide range of subjects, and should enjoy seeking out new information. To that end, I picked up Inside the Magic Kingdom a few years ago on the promise of learning some of what makes Disney, and specifically Disney World, so successful.

The book features a fictitious group of five managers who meet with a consultant named Mort. They meet at Disney World and Mort's agenda is to discuss seven keys that he feels are instrumental to Disney World's success. So as not to spoil it for you, I won't list the seven keys, though several of them I found very closely related to some of the principles of strategic planning in particular and leadership in general. I was especially drawn to the chapter in which the author presents Michael Eisner (former Disney CEO, 1984 - 2004) speaking about the mindset of all Disney employees. Each cast member (they aren't called employees) understands the importance of the Disney mindset. The particular discussion centers on trash pick-up, keeping the park clean, and how leadership's willingness to do this seemingly mundane chore sets the right tone for everyone.

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