Thursday, March 1, 2012

Top 10 Rules for Small Business Success

 
  1. Target                                                                                                                You are not all things to all people. Decide on your niche--narrow your focus and broaden your appeal.
  2. Be DifferentIf your competitors are doing it, don't. Stand out from an overcrowded marketplace where so much of the advertising and products look the same.
  3. Build a TeamDon't hire an employee to fill a position. Employ a person to be part of a team to build your business.
  4. Be FastTime is the most precious commodity. When delivery is expected Friday, show up Thursday afternoon. Return calls and emails now.
  5. Say Thank You
    A lot. Tell your customers and employees how much you appreciate them. Better yet, do it the old fashioned way: take pen to paper and write them a note.
  6. Be ConsistentMake sure your business has a consistent look and feel. A customer must get the same flavor from everyone within your organization. Always.
  7. SmileThrow out the reasons you think people buy from you like price, product quality or your warranty. They buy because they like you.
  8. Fanatical OptimismThe glass must always be half full. Attitude will always win out in the end and infect all of those around you.
  9. SELL  SOFT                                                                                     Don't ever hard sell. Solve problems. Satisfy wants. Do what is truly best for your customer.
  10. Leave Your Comfort ZoneNever accept the idea that this is the way you've always done it. Never accept that a new idea or technology could never work for you.

From 
http://marketing.about.com/od/smallbusinessmarketing/a/smbizsuccess.htm

2 comments:

  1. This is an awesome article. People don't realize the importance of the customer experience. The fact is, this is ignited even during business planning not just a case by case scenario. That's why its called a WIN-WIN!
    -KW

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    Replies
    1. You are absolutely right and these principles should be in the DNA of every start up. When you apply them you can cause a business to pivot into real growth. Building relationships with customers is just as important as your product or service. People remember their experiences and that's what they share with other potential customers.

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