Times are uncertain, no question. As we see the financial  crisis fold into an economic  crisis, we are all wondering what tomorrow will bring and we can’t take anything for  granted. Still, we can be certain about some things, a  few thoughts:

• We need to adapt quickly to the  situation: need to become more acute in our management, more agile  and decisive, more able to steer and adjust to the daily market condition  changes. Long-term focus must be complemented by very close daily management  and excellent customer care.
• As much as threats abound and recession forces are  impacting all businesses,  there are opportunities out  there. To challenge faults in existing operating principles,  to create new and different value  for our customers;  we need  to keep a mindset where we look for such opportunities.
• There will be winners and  losers. Much reshuffling of market positions will take place and  the most competitive players will rise to  the top as the winners. Organizations need to continue to invest  in their competitiveness. And in these times, saving $1 is not enough, you should “cut $2 to invest $1”.
• More than ever motivated and engaged teams will  be the key and make the difference between winners and  losers.  Stay close to your teams, communicate, reward and  recognize them. This will help to  retain the best and elevate the others. Let’s not cut back but, ensure the maximum return on our reward  and recognition investment.  The delivery of the reward  becomes ever so more important; a  good reward isn’t any good if it isn’t delivered appropriately. Reward your  teams and they will reward you.

So, we should have one certainty: Take care of our clients and take care of our teams. At Sodexo, we remain confident  and strive to be the reward and  recognition partner of those organizations who want to make the most of these  uncertain times.

Vincent Hillenmeyer
President,
Sodexo Pass USA