Five Ways to Re-invent and/or Boost Your Business

by Candy Ibarra

Forward motion is a necessity for small business survival.

 

It’s hard to imagine that after all the blood and sweat that goes into starting a business, that one has to still repeat the process on an on-going basis.

From marketing to internal protocol, many businesses are finding themselves in the position of having to re-invent or not survive.  As the world evolves, technology and client’s needs do too, so it is absolutely imperative to re-tool and re-do.

But how do you start?  What do you focus on?

I’ve come up with five tips on how to spearhead the process and make it as stress –free as possible, not barring some growing pains of course!: 

1. Take a Hard Look

First of all, congratulations on being one of those people who are open enough to take stock of your business and try new things.

That in itself is a step in the right direction.  Most businesses don’t survive because they are not willing to take a hard look at the reality of the changing market place and how they fit (or don’t fit) in it.

So step #1- take a detailed look on how you are doing from finances to reputation, all of it.

Are growing or are you losing clients?  Are you able to pay the bills?

This may sound simple but it is essential to start here. You’d be surprised how many don’t and pay the price later on.

2. Don’t Be Afraid To Make Mistakes

One of the reasons people don’t re-invent is because they are afraid to try new things and fail.

Unfortunately, there is no sure fire way or perfect fit for all.  Your business is unique and needs to be treated as such. Focus on one aspect of your business and try something new.

If you never had any discounts for your customers – try sending out emails with coupons for the future.

Unless you are one of the few that have an enormous amount of money to re-haul everything –take it one step of the time and see what works.   Some things can be done for free via email or phone calls.

3. Research, Research, Research

Research is essential in moving your business forward.

What are others in your field doing?  What is becoming a standard in reaching out to clients, technology, and practices?

Sometimes just doing a simple Google search in order to scope out your competition is a good way to start in making sure that you are always on the cutting edge.

Clients need to feel like they are getting the most out of their money so they require an additional perk here and there.   Sometimes that perk can be as simple as offering a quicker way to resolve their issue.

Be open and honest to how you measure up.

Next page: Numbers 4 and 5