It’s interesting that we are hearing that the economy is on the upswing and jobs are beginning to be created. Do I think things are getting /will get better? I am an optimist, I believe things will get better but not without collaboration and cooperation from the business world and government. Many like myself that are employed or have contracts, are fairing much better than many individuals, but our concern is not just about us. Remember that there were 2-3 three million jobless, and of course you have many individuals that took other jobs with a lower rate or salary, many outside of their career path. There are still layoffs taking place, U.S. manufacturing still does not have a stable employment rate and continues to be impacted by outsourcing(offshoring), and consumer confidence is surely not there. In the course of all of the above, realize that international economies continue to have economic issues and difficulties. There are truly national and international concerns, each having an impact on one another.
In my opinion, The New York Stock Exchange and the various economists presenting their different views on the economy, although provides significant information, is out of touch with mainstream America at this time and the working people. Many individuals and families are still struggling to put their lives back in order, including having to settle for a lower standard of living (significant reduced income). Recovery to be significant for the many out of jobs and for the economy, there has to be sustaining results. It is not just the profit and productivity that has to increase but jobs created over several months or more must be consistent and sustaining. This information would indicate “real” job creation and full economic growth, or at least a steady and healthy economy moving forward. Why? Because we are not sure what to think about announcements about profit and productivity increases. Are the majority of the increases because of layoffs and overworked employees?
It’s about a reality check to understand what or how our society and the economy is doing and what businesses and government is doing to sustain any progress, instead of the up and down cycle we see with the stock exchange. If you want consumer confidence and activity, and not just the hope of things getting better for many, then it’s not the immediate reporting that’s going to effect consumer confidence but long term progress and stability. 2004 is an opportunity for companies to put a focus on people and processes within their business plans and strategies to contribute to the economic growth.
Good luck to everyone, and every business,
Eddie R. Williams
RayAnn Enterprise Publishers (REP)
Our next Newsletter will be a Holiday Special and filled with some lessons learned going into 2004.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.