Who knows how long this coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is going to last. As I mentioned in my last post, at a recent meeting of businesses owners the estimates ranged from four weeks to three months, but it could go on even longer. With that in mind, I’m recommending that you develop a contingency plan with markers at different points, and create a list of actions for both your business and personal finances. I would suggest reviewing your plans on the following dates: Immediately; April 1; May 1; June 1; and July 1. I’d also suggest that you think about what drastic measures you’ll need to take if this pandemic goes on beyond July.

The economy has been growing since mid-2009, when the Great Recession technically ended, and it’s now the longest expansion on record. We’ve had it pretty good for more than a decade. As I was reflecting, I thought of the following story, which I previously shared in my March 2, 2012, post:

During one of the recessions prior to 2008-2009, I was meeting with a business owner who said to me, “You know, now is when I make most of my money” — and then he smiled at me. He went on to say, “The key decisions made during an economic downturn are what really drive my profitability post-recession … we get sloppy during the good times.” His closing comments reminded me of Seneca, who, in 65 B.C., said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Laying the groundwork for success takes place during bad times.

I’m not saying you got sloppy, but I’d be willing to bet that many of you have added costs over the past decade. Now, as the tide goes out and the rocks (or additional costs) become exposed, it’s a great time to execute some course corrections. Here’s another idea I’ve been thinking about: Since many of us are working remotely from our homes, are there expenses we can do without in the future, and not hurt the customer or our team?

Being a risk-taker, I’m going to volunteer to collect nonproprietary cost-reduction suggestions you and your team have identified — big and small alike. I’ll compile the ideas I receive from my 350 subscribers, and then post a blog (the source of anything I post will remain anonymous). Even if you have ideas you’re not going to implement, I’d like to see them.

All you have to do is hit “Reply” to the blog email notification and send me your ideas.

Assuming I receive any suggestions, I’ll periodically (i.e. weekly) share the COVID-19 Contingency Plan Cost Reduction list with all of you.

As one of my partners used to say, no idea is too small or insignificant — so please hit “Reply” and share what’s on your mind.