I know many business that are struggling right now. I know many industries that are challenged by this economy, by the market, by the time of year. Yet I also know some businesses that are thriving, even in more “impacted” industries.

What’s the secret? The heading on this article may have given it away, but yes – visibility is key. But what’s that mean? What’s visibility anyway?

Visibility is being seen some people think this is being seen anywhere, but for the folks that don’t have 10 million to spend on a dozen billboards, visibility should be focused on the groups and environments in which your clients and prospects thrive.

Being visible is as easy as showing up to the networking events in your area, it’s as easy as asking your best clients what associations they participate in, and then asking them if you can come along. Visibility is a complete LinkedIN profile, or a website with your correct contact information on it.

Sometimes people give me a hard time when I talk about visibility. They say things like “I don’t have the time for a boring association meeting” or “I don’t have the money for a $45 lunch” … but if your clients have enough money to hire you, don’t you think they might have enough for a $45 lunch?

This is why my #1 recommendation your business new year’s resolution is to SHOW UP at least once a week in 2009. Check your local chamber, go to meetingsandmixers.com visit rbn or bni chapters… just GET OUT THERE!