Business ownership can be rewarding but it can also be challenging. While you may be great at what you do – a painter, a writer, a chiropractor, or any number of things, running a business is a different ballgame altogether. While performing your job to the best of your ability is a priority, it’s important that you set your business up to succeed.
What can you do to help your business thrive?
Tip #1 – Stay Organised
Organisation is the key to ensuring your business runs smoothly and you’re not left feeling overwhelmed. Implementing processes that streamline your filing, client interactions and other processes will ensure you know where everything is and no tasks get missed.
Tip #2 – Automate Processes
Automating repeatable processes will save you time. Whether its following up clients through a CRM tool, using a chatbot to answer online client queries or using payroll software to manage your payroll processes, automation will help your business run effectively and efficiently.
Tip #3 – Maintain a Personal Touch
If you have clients that regularly purchase from you, personalised thank you notes in their online purchases or sending a birthday card or email can mean a lot and help your clients feel valued.
Tip #4 – Focus on Your Specialty
It can be tempting to offer a large product or service offering. While a one-stop shop can be great, if what you’re offering isn’t what you’re good at then you could end up providing a subpar product or service. Focusing on your specialty will cement you as the expert in your field and will have clients coming back as they know you’re the go-to for what they’re looking for.
Tip #5 – Be Flexible
Things change. Trends, economic climate, product relevance and any number of things can all have an impact on your business. Being able to change up the way you do things or your offering will help you stay relevant and continue to attract clients.
Tip #6 – Have a Great Website
Whether your business is online or a bricks and mortar shopfront, an online presence will enable current and potential clients to learn more about your business and generate sales.
Tip #7 – Protect Your Intellectual Property
Regardless of the size of your business, it’s important that you protect intangible assets such as designs, trademarks, business ideas or trade secrets that belong to you or differentiate your business from your competitors. If a competitor tries to replicate your product, they can not only eat into your market but also damage your reputation.
Tip #8 – Create Unique Content
If you use social media or have a website, posting photos or videos of events or new products is a great way to keep your clients up to date with what’s going on in your business. Showcasing projects you are working on or sharing ‘How to’ videos can also help you share your expertise.
Tip #9 – Prioritise Customer Service
Your business relies on customers to grow, so it’s important that you not only provide great customer service during the purchase stage but also afterwards. If your customer has an issue with your product or service, helping them with troubleshooting or resolving the problem will ensure they return to you with future business.
Tip #10 – Enjoy What You Do
While running a business is hard work, it’s important to enjoy what you do. If you enjoy working in your business that will reflect in your dealings with clients and make them happy to work with you.