MOTION started out as solely an events company in 2004 and eventually ventured out to become a more holistic creative solutions agency.

We believe in good branding and communications strategy in order to position the client's brand or product in oversaturated markets. We believe in forging a relationship between the client and their target audience - a communication strategy where we package the message to reach to the target audience in the best possible medium. We also believe in a strong concept that cascades through strong icons and symbols, where the message is clear and concise.

That said, this is the first big recession we are facing and our beliefs are helpless in the financial meltdown of 2009. We really got hit in the beginning of this year, from January to April, but we're starting to see a pick-up in the scene in May.

As with many of the companies that have shared their stories on this website, our biggest challenges are cashflow and sales.

Corporates are understandably afraid to spend on any outgoing marketing initiatives. The industry went scarily quiet. Nothing was coming in and our reserves were depleting month by month for the upkeep of the company. We had to re-think our cash flow management for the survival of the company.

We also had to actively re-strategise on the way we market Motion: Stretching every avenue of marketing and publicity to keep the public presence of Motion. The cut backs made on staff salaries was tough but necessary. We were challenged by company directors and advisors on more severe cuts like downsizing of physical office space, manpower, relooking at Motion's business model, trimming any fat to keep the company lean.

Being the only managing partner that is actively involved in the company, it was very difficult and conflicting to break news of this to the employees. Cushioning their expectations and professional morale was delicate. Fortunately, Motion's tight knit team was supportive and understanding of the red alert action plans, more so than I would possibly expect. This humbled me and steered me on to brave and pave the storm.

My takeaways from this recession?

(1) Cash is king.

(2) Be prudent and save for rainy days.

(3) Guard your own interests: In bad times, everyone fights his or her own battles. Being resilient and self-sustaining strengthens the team's morale and cohesiveness. Ironically, when the going gets tough, the sincerity shines through.

(4) Stay focused: Lull periods are the best times to take stock of corporate direction, branding, improving skill sets and marketing initiatives. Easier said than done when you're worrying about your rice bowl! But stay tough, focused and clear in direction to stay on top of the game.

(5) Collaborate with industry and partners: It was heart-warming to experience how allies of my industry come together for morale support and sharing of business opportunities. This camaraderie truly helped in my confidence and stamina for survival.

(6) Communicate with your staff: Making sure that everyone understands the company's situation and continue to follow the direction of your leadership. One of the toughest things for me was to play the many hats that I had to.

Being a boutique company, it was definitely a juggle to ensure productivity, keeping the company afloat, reaping potential business, staying optimistic but at the same time keeping a tight gurard of your company's interest.

However, it has been amazing to see how the employees step up to the challenge. I would dare say that I have witnessed them outshine themselves professionally more so in this acute timeframe!