It’s down to the last five minutes of the game. The competition has the ball first-and-10 at your 15-yard line.

Okay . . . we all work in offices, but this scenario can be the reality of our lives. Sales were down last quarter, but costs were up. The shareholders are all over you to make the big deal.

Are you ready for this big game? What things should you be doing to make sure that you’re ready? These three things:

#1—Hire proactively.

What does this mean? It means always be ready to take calls from recruiters pitching candidates. It means always be networking and talking to anyone that could potentially be a fit on your team should the need arise.

#2—Practice, practice, practice!

Always be coaching and training your staff so they know the plays that they need to execute on a consistent basis.

#3—Be “in tune” with your team.

Technically they are all “free agents.” Make sure that their loyalty lies with YOU when their agents come calling with better deals.

The only way to win the big game is to be ready to play it. Don’t be part of the losing locker room. Do what’s necessary to win and win BIG!