Special Edition of the Business Survival Guide: Thriving or Surviving Political Turbulence

In anticipation of the next Trump administration, business leaders are split—some see opportunity, while others brace for challenges. On one side are those preparing for economic growth and policy advantages; on the other are business owners, especially immigrants and minorities, who worry about the potential for disruptive change. But if you're like me—determined to succeed no matter who’s in office—this article is for you. By exploring perspectives from both sides, you can shape your own approach to the next administration, positioning yourself to not just survive, but thrive, no matter the political landscape.

Preparing for the Worst: The Pessimist

As businesses drive local economies and support millions of families, staying prepared for potential political and economic shifts becomes vital for their survival and growth. With the next Trump administration, many  business owners are concerned about how policy changes might impact their bottom lines. Here’s how  businesses can prepare for possible economic shifts and uncertainty in the next Trump presidency.

Understand Potential Policy Changes and Their Impacts

Trump's administration from 2017-2021 focused on a mix of deregulation, tax cuts, and trade policies. While tax cuts provided some relief to businesses, trade wars led to increased costs for goods, particularly for those that relied on imported materials. Reassessing your business model with these factors in mind—whether it’s supply chain dependencies or regulatory compliance—could help prepare for similar policies that may return.

• Reevaluate your supply chain: If your business relies on imported goods, consider exploring domestic suppliers or alternative markets to reduce exposure to potential tariffs.
• Monitor potential tax adjustments: Anticipate possible tax policy changes by reviewing financial statements and working with a financial advisor to make informed decisions about payroll, benefits, and expansion.

Emphasize Cash Flow Management and Build Reserves

During uncertain times, maintaining a healthy cash flow is essential. Many businesses experienced significant disruptions during the pandemic, highlighting the need for financial resilience.

• Create an emergency fund: Having a cushion can make the difference between weathering a downturn and having to close. Aim to keep 3-6 months of expenses in reserve.
• Review and adjust pricing strategies: Inflation and supply chain issues can lead to rising costs. Periodically reviewing and adjusting your pricing will help ensure that your business remains profitable while still delivering value to customers.

Strengthen Your Local Community Ties

Local support is often the lifeline for businesses. Many consumers recognize that their spending can have a tangible impact on their community, so reinforcing local ties can ensure steady support, especially in challenging times.

• Engage in community-building activities: Host events, support local charities, and foster personal relationships with your customers. This will help build loyalty and establish your business as a valued part of the community.
• Showcase the impact of spending locally: Use marketing to educate your audience on how supporting local businesses benefits the community at large.

Focus on E-commerce, automation and AI

Digital adoption became essential during the pandemic and AI has been trending for several years. Both are powerful tools for reaching broader audiences and mitigating revenue loss. Investing in e-commerce, social media, and digital marketing can help  businesses stay resilient.

• Expand your online presence: If you’re not already selling online, explore platforms like Shopify or Etsy, or consider partnering with established e-commerce platforms.
• Use data-driven marketing: Targeted advertising and analytics can help you identify and reach core customer groups, improving conversion rates and customer loyalty.
• Expand: With a digital product and presence, the entire world opens up to many businesses. Just make sure you do your research and consider engaging an international business lawyer to account for tax and legal implications.

Keep an Eye on Labor Policies and Prepare for Workforce Changes

Labor policies and the availability of talent are often influenced by administration changes. A Trump administration could potentially revisit labor regulations, which might affect wages, employee benefits, and healthcare mandates. In addition, if the mass deportation effort that Trump has promised comes to fruition, certain industries such as agriculture and construction may be significantly impacted.

• Optimize workforce planning: Consider hiring flexible or part-time staff as demand fluctuates, or invest in technology that can help reduce dependency on labor-intensive tasks.
• Enhance employee benefits and retention programs: Amidst economic uncertainty, maintaining a motivated and stable workforce can lead to better productivity and customer satisfaction.
• Adjust reliance on any DEI grants or programs: If your company benefits from federal and some state DEI or minority support programs, it is reasonable to believe there will be impacts to those types of programs and funding.

Prepare for Regulatory Adjustments

While deregulation may initially seem advantageous, rapid shifts in regulatory landscapes can create unexpected challenges, particularly if they lead to changes in state regulations or environmental compliance.

• Stay informed on industry-specific regulations: Sign up for industry newsletters, consult trade organizations, and keep a close watch on policy developments to ensure your business remains compliant.
• Invest in compliance tools or services: Especially if your industry is highly regulated, it may be worth investing in services or software that help your business maintain compliance amid regulatory changes.

Seek Alternative Financing and Support Options

Funding and credit access are crucial for  business sustainability, and these resources may become more limited during periods of economic uncertainty or conservative fiscal policies.

• Look for alternative funding: Consider options beyond traditional loans, such as crowdfunding, grants, or community development financial institutions (CDFIs), which offer funding to underserved businesses.
• Strengthen your credit profile: Regularly review your business credit score and work to improve it, as it can impact your ability to secure favorable financing.

While it’s impossible to predict the exact policies of any future administration, proactive preparation can safeguard your business against potential challenges. By reinforcing your finances, building a local support base, embracing digital transformation, and remaining adaptable, your business can stay resilient even in uncertain times. Staying nimble, planning ahead, and focusing on your core strengths will help ensure your business’s longevity, regardless of political shifts.

Preparing for the Best: The Optimist

As the political landscape evolves, companies have an opportunity to strategically position themselves to benefit from potential policy changes. The Trump administration returning to the White House brings with it the promise of familiar policy focuses, including deregulation, tax cuts, and an America-first trade stance. Companies that prepare now may gain a competitive edge if these anticipated policies come to fruition. Here’s how businesses can think about aligning their strategies with potential policy trends to seize emerging opportunities.

Prepare for Regulatory Easing

Trump’s first term saw a significant reduction in regulations across various sectors, particularly in finance, energy, and manufacturing. A similar approach could present new opportunities for companies to grow and operate with greater flexibility.

• Plan for expansion and innovation: Reduced regulations often mean fewer administrative hurdles, opening up possibilities for rapid scaling and innovation, especially for industries like manufacturing, energy, and construction.
• Invest in compliance resources selectively: While staying compliant is essential, regulatory easing may allow businesses to allocate fewer resources to compliance-related costs, freeing up capital for other investments.

Capitalize on Tax Incentives

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) under the Trump administration provided substantial corporate tax relief, which led to increased capital availability for businesses. If similar policies are reinstated, companies should be ready to take advantage of tax incentives to fuel growth.

• Invest in capital improvements and R&D: Use potential tax savings to fund research, technology upgrades, or expansion efforts that enhance efficiency or productivity.
• Reevaluate corporate structure and financial planning: Consult with tax experts to explore the most advantageous corporate structure under a renewed Trump tax policy, as these decisions can optimize tax exposure and create cash flow advantages.

Leverage “America First” Policies

Trump’s “America First” approach prioritized domestic production and reshaped international trade relations, leading to policies that benefit American manufacturers and create new opportunities for local businesses. Companies should consider aligning with this sentiment by sourcing domestically and promoting American-made products.

• Reshore or nearshore operations: Bringing manufacturing and production back to the U.S. or neighboring countries may reduce exposure to tariffs and trade disputes. Consider restructuring your supply chain to source materials domestically, showcasing your commitment to American manufacturing.
• Highlight “Made in America” in marketing: Many consumers appreciate businesses that support American jobs. Emphasize the local production of your products, as this can resonate with customers and align with a potential surge in nationalistic sentiment.

Stay Agile in Trade and Supply Chain Strategy

The previous Trump administration was characterized by a volatile trade policy that involved tariffs and renegotiated trade agreements. Businesses that stayed agile and adapted to these changes were able to reduce risks and even gain advantages over competitors.

• Diversify suppliers and markets: Prepare for possible tariffs by cultivating relationships with suppliers in different countries, reducing dependency on single sources. Diversifying markets can also allow your business to navigate tariffs and other trade barriers.
• Explore government grants and incentives: If a new administration emphasizes manufacturing and production, new government programs and grants may become available for companies that reshore or expand domestic operations.

Invest in Automation and Workforce Productivity

While an America-first approach promotes domestic jobs, businesses will still need to navigate a potential rise in labor costs and reduction in available labor, especially blue collar. Investing in automation and productivity-boosting technology can help companies remain efficient while supporting an American workforce.

• Implement automation in labor-intensive areas: Automation can reduce operational costs and help businesses manage workforce constraints without compromising output.
• Focus on employee training and development: Retaining skilled workers and maximizing productivity will be key. Consider investing in training programs that enhance employees’ skill sets and improve efficiency.

Anticipate Changes in Healthcare Policy

The Trump administration previously aimed to reduce government involvement in healthcare, which might impact how companies handle health benefits for employees. Businesses can stay ahead by evaluating healthcare policies and exploring flexible benefits.

• Consider alternative health benefit structures: If government-subsidized healthcare changes, companies might look into options like health savings accounts (HSAs) or high-deductible plans, which can reduce costs while still offering coverage.
• Enhance workplace wellness initiatives: Preventative wellness programs can help offset healthcare costs. Promoting employee wellness through programs like fitness reimbursements or stress management workshops may become an increasingly valuable retention and cost-saving tool.

Monitor Infrastructure and Energy Opportunities

If infrastructure and energy investments become a focus, companies in these sectors can capitalize on new projects, government contracts, and investments in energy production.

• Pursue government contracts: Construction, transportation, and energy companies should position themselves for federal and state contracts by maintaining compliance, securing the necessary certifications, and aligning with government standards.
• Invest in sustainable practices that align with policy trends: If a Trump administration emphasizes traditional energy sources, companies can weigh the benefits of balancing traditional and renewable sources to meet both policy standards and growing consumer demand for sustainability.

Engage in Proactive Government Relations

Staying in tune with policy developments and maintaining a voice in regulatory discussions can provide critical insights for businesses looking to adapt and benefit from new policies.

• Build relationships with industry groups: Align with organizations and lobby groups that advocate for policies beneficial to your industry, as they can provide updates, insights, and support.
• Stay informed through local chambers and trade associations: These organizations often track policy changes and offer resources to help businesses adapt to new regulatory environments.

Preparing for the next Trump administration involves strategic adjustments that align with likely policies while maintaining adaptability for a dynamic environment. Companies that position themselves to capitalize on deregulation, tax benefits, and America-first policies can not only safeguard their interests but also unlock new opportunities for growth. By staying agile and proactive, businesses can secure a resilient and profitable position amid changing political landscapes.

Final words

My final words will be a repeat of a previous statement, “By exploring perspectives from both sides, you can shape your own approach to the next administration, positioning yourself to not just survive, but thrive, no matter the political landscape.” I would not be surprised if everyone who reads this article comes away frustrated by one part or another. While not my intent, realizing this made me also realize that, perhaps, this disconnect may also be the beginning of what might be a small piece of what we need to bring people together again.

Andy