From Inc · · 2m
Leadership Insights on Tariffs and Geopolitical Uncertainty
Business leaders share how tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty impact their strategies and operations.
In brief
Business leaders share how tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty impact their strategies and operations. Business leaders adapt by focusing on local resilience, supply chain transparency, and strategic flexibility amid tariff pressures and global instability. Originally reported by Inc.
Focus on fewer, better supplies
Tariffs hit event supplies unexpectedly. Vendors pass higher costs to us. We focus on fewer, better materials for memorable experiences.
“Sometimes the answer is fewer, better things.”
Stronger long-term demand but longer sales cycles
Tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties affect customers. Logistics and inventory planning become higher priorities. Sales cycles lengthen while long-term demand strengthens.
Don’t treat resilience as adding another supplier
Resilience requires qualifying supplier performance and company readiness. Tariffs change assumptions about suppliers, inventory, and lead times.
Short-term demand and long-term uncertainty
Immigration policy uncertainty increases client demand but also communication stress. Services are in high demand yet long-term uncertainty may impact future demand.
More business inquiries for visibility expansion
Geopolitical uncertainty boosts online visibility for founder-led businesses. They shift budgets to organic reach and thought leadership.
Felt a pull back on marketing spends
Tariffs and uncertainty reduce marketing spends. Clients pull back on advertising due to margin changes and reduced consumer willingness to spend.
Increased demand from tariff-impacted clients
Tariff-impacted clients increase demand. Uncertainty slows budgets but creates need for strategic partners.
Stay flexible on scope and timing
Clients pause promotional spending. Flexibility maintains relationships during economic uncertainty.
Defend value without pulling the price lever
Manufacturing in the U.S., qualifying alternate suppliers, and innovation protect margins without price cuts.
“Price is the easiest lever to pull and the fastest way to erode loyalty.”
Shift in client decision-making
Teams with pre-existing trust move faster during uncertainty. Others lose weeks to internal friction.
Implications for international staff
International staff face higher costs and inflation. Companies increase nearshore resources for redundancy.
Keep supply chain transparent through compounding strain
Fuel price spikes and El Niño strain global fish oil supply. Transparency helps adapt quickly.
Spend more time reviewing options and risk
Small businesses hesitate on decisions due to uncertainty. IT investments become slower and risk review expands.
Stay focused on what’s in our control
Uncertainty doesn’t dictate strategy. Focus on serving customers, watching numbers, and continuing to market.
The one thing
Business leaders adapt by focusing on local resilience, supply chain transparency, and strategic flexibility amid tariff pressures and global instability.


