I’ve spoken to a service manager who has had to make the tough decision to make staff redundant, but have also heard from others who are continuing to plan for expansion. I’ve said before that there will always be winners and losers in any economic climate, but many have the means at their disposal to make their lot a happier one.

Companies need to be carefully and effectively managed at all times, of course. Where the service industry is concerned, this could mean being aware of new opportunities. As companies in many sectors look to make savings, the outsourcing of various service operations becomes an attractive proposition. Many companies in the industry employ a workforce with a diverse skill set and service operation that could easily be adapted to take advantage of this situation.

For those who are having to deal with clients cutting back on their service contracts, it could be a matter of one door closing and another opening. The trick is in identifying the opportunities and having the vision to see how the benefits could be obtained. These could include looking at new areas, or becoming a preferred provider to an existing service operation.

Those who are able to remain alert and positive in the face of the deluge of negativity are the ones more likely to emerge from the recession in good shape. By learning lessons from the tough times, they will be the ones to prosper when the economy recovers.