Business feels shaky right now — but that’s exactly when strong leadership matters most.
In a recent Torsion Talk podcast episode, Ryan Lucia, founder of Aaron Overhead Doors, shared what it’s like to lead your small business during economic stress. While his company focuses on garage doors, the lessons apply to any service-based or blue‑collar business. If you’re managing a team, watching your numbers, and planning for 2025, this advice is for you.
Election Years Slow Sales
Election cycles shake consumer confidence. Many industries see sales dip one to two months before and one month after major elections. This year, even typically strong months like August have been soft across healthcare, construction, and manufacturing.
One example: Ryan’s eye doctor—who usually sees a spike in August—reported flat numbers. A contact in the steel industry, Brian from Majestic Steel, shared a report showing falling prices and weak mill demand. These are clear signs that uncertainty is spreading across sectors.
Plan for the Year Early
Waiting until January to plan the year ahead is too late. Smart operators are already reviewing team structure, identifying growth areas, and budgeting for profitability—not just volume.
Ryan and his operations lead, Josh, meet each fall to plan the next year. That includes setting revenue targets, forecasting how many jobs justify a new hire, and mapping which areas—like screens or commercial installs—are ready to scale.
Explore how MarkInuity’s consulting services help businesses align strategy with execution.
Build Leaders Internally
Leadership development builds resilience. Ryan runs a weekly book call for his teams. The first book: Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John Maxwell. Each meeting is one hour, and team members discuss how to apply each chapter to their role.
One week, Ryan admitted the book “called him out,” creating a culture of openness and reflection. These sessions help the team think and lead cohesively.
Learn how proactive leadership can shift your business from reaction to resilience here.
Keep Your Best People
During slowdowns, private equity and recruiters often make tempting offers to staff. Instead of competing on pay, the best defense is investing in your team through clarity, opportunity, and growth paths.
Use the Right Tools
Workplace injuries are expensive. After two team members were sidelined with shoulder issues, Ryan equipped every truck with SureWinders and required their use. He also recommends Stealth Hardware Kits to reduce noise and add upsell opportunities.
If you want fewer breakdowns—in people or equipment—invest early and consistently.
Culture Isn’t Mandatory Fun
Ryan’s team occasionally does Taco Tuesdays—but it’s never mandatory. He doesn’t penalize no-shows. Some people need quiet time, others have families. Forced fun doesn’t build trust—but voluntary connection does.
Adapt to Your Market Conditions
Different regions face different challenges. Ryan’s area saw home show attendance drop by 50%, while cities like Phoenix are seeing strong demand due to seasonal migrants.
Local crises also matter. A nearby school shooting caused community-wide stress and less engagement—showing how real-world events ripple into economic behavior.
Refocus on Values and Systems
Slowdowns expose weaknesses. This is the time to tighten operations, revisit SOPs, and ensure your team is trained on solid processes.
Ryan cautions against giving raises from panic. Instead, ask: “Can I replace this person with someone as capable at the same—or lower—cost?”
Discover how MarkInuity helps streamline systems and operations in service businesses.
Take Action
You can’t control the economy—but you can control how you lead. Now is the time to:
- Develop internal leadership
- Cleanup and strengthen systems
- Lead with focus and stability
Ready to build a smarter plan for your business? Let’s talk.