These are not economic predictions. They are based on my personal observation and first-hand knowledge of sales forces across the United States – their present situation, and their future hope based on market conditions and readiness.

And please do not compare yourselves. Rather ask yourselves: Am I ready to win more based on these predictions and challenges?

1. PREDICTION: More business will be available as the economy begins to surge and the elections become a reality. CHALLENGE: Are you ready for an increase in business, not just with product and inventory ability – but with better attitude, mood, friendliness and morale of the entire company?

2. PREDICTION: There will be pricing challenges even in the wake of greater business. CHALLENGE: Now is the time for PROFIT. You have left too much money on the table for the past two years. Create a better value proposition, and use it rather than having to justify (and perhaps lower) your price.

3. PREDICTION: There will be an emphasis on third-party purchasers and buying groups in order to leverage pricing. CHALLENGE: Build value-based relationships that the customer would lose out on if they joined the group. Get testimonials from customers who decided not to participate.

4. PREDICTION: Full participation in business social media is no longer an option for your company. CHALLENGE: Counsel your counsel and determine what you CAN do. Do that as fast as you can. Your plan must include all forms of business social media, and interaction with customers one-on-one. Need examples? There are plenty of them online right now. One of them may even be your competition.

5. PREDICTION: Full participation in business social media is no longer an option for you personally. CHALLENGE: Set up a business Facebook page where people can “Like” you and invite all your customers to begin to comment on your products, service, and impact of ownership or service provided. Your LinkedIn connections must exceed 501 and you must have at least 10 recommendations. This makes your image look powerful, structured and reputable. Twitter must attract 500 followers, and you must tweet twice a day. Your YouTube channel must have at least 10 testimonial videos that use the most searchable words in your business category. Your blog is the real-world outlet for yourself and your customers – make it valuable and interact with customers one-on-one.