Business Strategies That Work!

Dale Little, Business Strategist, asks “Why are you in business?” Some people say it’s to get rich. Others say it’s so they can be their own boss. Why do you do what you do?

Do you enjoy your work? Do you bounce out of bed in the morning eager to begin the day, tackle a project, or solicit new business?

Business owners typically have a vision for the future of their company. More often than not the path to achieving that vision may become blurred or even rocky on occasion.

What do you do when that happens? Here are alternatives used by some business owners:

1. Consult a mentor.
2. Take a class or check out some online forums.
3. Take a break. Go for a walk. Read a book.
4. Initiate a brainstorming session.
5. Doodle, Squiggle, or Journal thoughts and ideas. Don’t be concerned if they’re random. Any one of them could produce the solution or alternative.

Whether or not to walk away from a business situation is a challenging decision. What reason could  possibly be good enough that you walk away from an opportunity?  The possible effect of not walking away, and potential subsequent damage to your reputation and brand is a most valid reason to steer clear of those situations that “don’t feel right”.

How do you know whether or not to walk away?  Our intuition about a person, opportunity or situation is our first signal as to what our ultimate decision should be. Intuition may show itself as a formed idea, a general feeling of optimism and energy, or alternately dread or discomfort.  Many times when everything seems to fall into place with a new idea or relationship, it’s our intuition to allow the situation to follow its natural course.

In our fast paced business life, we may not take the time to heed our intuitive voice. We feel compelled to make on the spot decisions. I suggest that this urge be replaced with patience. Teach yourself to  trust your  professional experience and expertise that have resulted in the evolved instincts that are part of your decision-making tool kit. Then you can feel comfortable that you are following the appropriate processes to achieve a positive end result for your business.

To walk away, or not walk away… Yes, there will be times when we will walk away from challenges and end up wishing we had taken them on, or vice versa.  I offer that there will be many more times when you stick with it or walk away, and you will have no regrets. There will be no second guesses. You will know you made the best decision possible with the abilities that were on hand at the time.

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Jam packed with everything you need to know to grow your business! This event is your opportunity to get the kind of business-building advice you can’t afford to ignore. Challenge your thinking and get fresh ideas, hands on tools, powerful insights and strategies that work. Participate in the educational sessions, invaluable networking, and unforgettable luncheon to honor the Entrepreneur of 2009 winners. Here’s the agenda.

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Where is your business going?
When was the last time you took an hour or two and focused on where your business is going, and why it’s going in that direction? Take some time for this now, and begin by answering these questions.

1. Are sales increasing or remaining steady? Declining? Do you know why?
2. Is employee absenteeism and tardiness increasing or decreasing? Why?
3. When was the last employee training event?
4. When was the last employee appreciation event?
5. Has each budget line item been reviewed in the last six months? Are you within your budget projections for expenses? Is there excess money in some categories? Should that money be moved to new marketing projects or employee training?
6. Who is responsible for maintaining contact with existing clients? When did you last meet to discuss innovative ideas for staying in touch with clients?

These questions are initiators. Use these to begin your business direction review process. You’ll be amazed how an hour or two of contemplation, observation and research can cause an immediate (and positive) change in your company.