It’s official – we’re out of recession! Some positive news for a change and time to celebrate.

But hang on just a minute. Many economic commentators don’t see 2010 as being a year of strong growth. And there is cause for further caution - there are figures out there that show that more businesses go out of business coming out of a recession than when in the thick of it.

So if you really care about survival, then the rest of 2010 is going to be about being seen. By the right people. In the right places. Doing the right things.

So what are you going to do about it? First things first - your staff. Happy staff means a happy company so there will have to be plenty of reassurance and briefings. Keeping your people informed so they are all on message and understand what is going on in the business and market as a whole.

Next your existing customers. Make sure you service them like there is no tomorrow. Make them feel valued. Build relationships and loyalty. Above all offer them a fantastic service so they have no reason to go elsewhere. And keep communicating with them. If you don’t then you can be sure that your competitors will.

Next you need to be seen by your prospects. You need to make more noise than your competitors as there are companies out there that do need your services – finding them is the trick.

Never before has your brand been so important. Why? Because the common link between all your stakeholders is your brand.

We believe that a strong brand equals a strong company. It is the umbrella behind which all your staff can unite. If used correctly it gives your customers belief and trust. And when implemented consistently it generates awareness, trust and a clear understanding of what you stand for. All this makes it easier for companies to believe, trust and buy from you. And never before has this been so important.