This question came in from one of our readers. It's a great question
for new business owners with their eye on the prize. If you have a
small business question that you'd like for me to answer, let me know.
A: Congratulations on starting up your business! And even more so for looking beyond your start-up and asking the question that will lead to your success. Here are my suggestions:
1. If you haven't created your business plan, do it now.
2. Don't let yourself get sidetracked from your business plan. There will be lots of distractions that will make it seem like deviating from your business plan is a good idea. Don't be seduced. Work the plan.
3. Keep the big picture in mind. If unemployment is at 10%, that means that 90% of the market is gainfully employed and spending money.
4. Remember that everything cycles. Keep moving forward.
5. Make sure you differentiate yourself in the market. Create an apples and oranges comparison and convey the contrast to your market.
6. Stick with your core values. Remember why you are in business and what values are important you.
7. Be transparent and honest in your dealings with people. During your first year, honesty will matter. Being a good person will matter. Being authentic will matter. Integrity earns trust.
8. Master social networking to create inbound marketing.
9. Keep things simple your first year. Don't over-complicate solutions, make situations more complex than they are, or react when you have the power to respond.
10. Unplug from your business one day a week. I know. I know. There will be lots to do your first year. Your tendency will be to do whatever it takes to get things done. In addition to working long and hard, though, your business also needs you to refresh and renew yourself. Schedule one day a week off and stick to it.
Let me know if this was helpful, or if there is anything more you'd add. If you have a small business question that you'd like for me to answer, let me know.
Susan L. Reid
Inner Samurai Business Expert
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