You probably spend a lot of time thinking about where you want to take your small business this year. Should you find someone to help you, add a new product line, invest more in marketing, or find a new field altogether? These are big picture questions that will take some time and soul-searching. While you think about those items, though, here are a few simple resolutions you can make and keep to put your business on the track to success:
- Personally Talk to Each of Your Customers: We have all become far too dependent on our digital devices. With texts, Tweets, email, and online ordering, we may never have to speak to each other again! But this could be bad for your business. One way you can stand out is personal service, especially if you compete against large, disconnected businesses. Never take your customers or clients for granted. Make some time to talk to them personally once a month or every other month, depending on how many clients you have. Find out how they feel about your products and services, what they would like to see changed, and ask about what else you can do to help. In a world of many impersonal interactions, a little attention will go a long way.
- Ramp Up Your Marketing Efforts: If you’re not involved in any marketing, you are decreasing your chances for success. You must consistently seek out and pursue a new stream of business in order to stay on a path of growth. An on-going and consistent marketing strategy is the only way to achieve this goal. Online marketing opportunities allow you to effectively compete with larger companies without spending a lot of money. For 2015 resolve that you will start a content marketing program aimed at helping your business grow.
- Join One Group That Can Benefit Your Business: It is hard to operate a business in a cocoon, so it is often necessary to get involved with other groups that can provide new insights or new opportunities. Think about joining a business association that can provide you with ongoing tips or new industry trends. Or consider joining a local group where you can meet new people and present your business opportunity. Don’t sit and wait for the world to come to you – go out and find it yourself.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Get Professional Support: Most small business entrepreneurs are quite proud, and think they can do everything themselves. Or they worry about the cost of hiring someone else. But it is important to get professional support where needed. If you don’t have the necessary marketing, sales or financial skills, investing a small amount in a professional can save you a lot of time and effort so you can focus on what you do best.
Owning a small business can be both frustrating and rewarding, but following these simple resolutions should help tilt the balance in your favor.