The world of worry for today's younger generations encompasses more than clothes and peer popularity.

Whether you call it an uncertain economy, a down economy, or a recession, one thing is definite: buyer behavior is quite a bit different from what it was a year ago. Both consumers and businesses are more cautious about how much they're spending and what they're spending on. They're no longer making luxury purchases and are scrutinizing every cost, as well as demanding a faster ROI.

The numbers are down about 15 percent.

It’s astonishing how often salespeople and business owners are surprised to learn, after the fact, that the decision-maker they were talking to has lied to them. In many cases, the salesperson will then actually defend the buyer—saying things like, ‘Well, they’re just not ready to buy,” or “They have to see all the salespeople first and then make a decision.” What they often mean is, “I haven’t done my job properly.”

It's interesting to note how many sales opportunities salespeople or business owners miss out on—offers they likely could have won. Were they only to realize how much that lost business is worth over a 12-month period, no doubt they'd be quicker to do something about it.

2009 had some interesting lessons to impart in terms of sales and sales tactics—things we should all learn from whether we're a salesperson, sales manager, director, or business owner.

Why do most small businesses struggle when it comes to getting business from exhibitions? Here are some simple tips on what to do that can make a huge difference.