In today's business world, there's at least one fact dominating the market: money's tight.

When I was younger I applied as an account manager for a local rent-to-own store. My job was to ensure that people paid their bills on time and hopefully in full. The owner said to me, "Some people only have a little money and it has to spread out. We want to ensure that we're covered in that spread."

It's a trickle-down effect. When customers aren't buying, you aren't selling. And if you aren't selling, you aren't making money and thus you aren't buying as well. It's and endless, painful circle.

I wanted to inform you that it doesn't necessarily have to be so. I've got a word for you that won't be a "silver bullet" but might help you survive during a time of recession.

Co-Op.

A lot of major corporations will help you to advertise your product. It's a win, win situation. If you can promote your name to the public, you can sell your product making both you and your corporation money. Periodically I'll receive emails from companies that will help their customers pay for advertising. For instance just recently I had an insurance agent get double the amount of advertising for his buck. He wanted to advertise and gave them a proposed budget and they offered to pay half of it!

So if you are apart of a chain, organization or sell name brand products you might find help in your direst time of need. Promote your business today and make sure you're a part of the spread.