Confidence among CEOs has remained higher for a longer period

than at any other time in the past ten years, according to a survey of

1,541 small- to mid-sized business owners. The survey, which took

place from March 9 to March 18, 2015, provides a clear snapshot of

current economic, market and industry trends.

The Vistage Confidence Index was 105.8 in the 1st quarter of 2015,

between the 107.5 in the 4th quarter and 101.3 in the 1st quarter of

2014. The recent survey represented the eighth consecutive year-to-year

increase, a new record for the persistence of optimism. The small

1st quarter loss involved all components, although none registered a

significant decline. The stability in CEOs’ confidence stands in sharp

contrast to the slowdown in the pace of economic growth at yearend,

which has persisted into the 1st quarter of 2015. Confidence

in the underlying strength of the economy has been maintained

undiminished despite a number of factors: a harsh winter, a tightening

labor market, rising wage pressures, weakening export demand, and

a pending shift in Fed policy. To be sure, some of these trends reflect

the growing strength of the U.S. economy. Overall, firms anticipate

that the economy will continue to make substantial progress, with

a resurgence in growth as the year progresses.

What are you doing to keep your company moving forward?

Follow these links for more information:

1q15 ceo conf info graph tjk

1q15 ceo confidence report

Marketing is the second section of five strategic areas for growth in the Vistage Executive Street 2015 forecast.

From the report: “ …smarter, more well informed and resourceful consumer who is empowered with information at their fingertips”

2015 Marketing Checklist –

• Optimize your online experience.
• Use social media to build your brand’s presence and credibility with its target audience.
• Narrow your focus to reach your true target market.
• Make sure your site is mobile friendly.

So what’s in your 2015 marketing game plan?

Download the report here:

Marketing – 2015 Trend Report

Remember these steps to get better results:

1. Schedule time to read the report when you can be focused and fully present.
2. Jot down a few ideas and goals that are applicable to your company.
3. Share the report, your ideas and goals with your team.
4. Ask them how you can help them achieve the goals.
5. Hold them accountable for results.

3q2014 Vistage CEO Confidence Index TJK

3q2014 Vistage CEO confidence index infographic

Confidence among CEOs reached its highest level in two years,

finally achieving a lift-off from its favorable holding pattern in the

last three quarters. The Vistage CEO Confidence Index was 103.4 in

the 3rd quarter 2014 survey, up from 101.0 in the 2nd quarter and

97.8 in last year’s 3rd quarter, and the highest level since 105.1 was

recorded in the 1st quarter of 2012. There is no greater indication

of confidence in future prospects than a firm’s willingness to

increase their fixed investment spending and to expand their

workforce. On both counts, firms reported the most expansive

plans since 2006.

Download the complete report here: 3q2013 Vistage CEO

Confidence Index