The Small Business Administration defines a small business as one with fewer than 500 employees, which includes 99.7% of all U.S. businesses. Running a small business offers benefits like freedom, control, and financial rewards, but also risks such as stress and financial uncertainty. With a high failure rate for startups, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to heed advice from experienced business owners.
One key to success is fostering a positive corporate culture, which can lead to happier, more productive employees and increased profits. Hiring the right people is also essential, with companies like Zappos and Southwest Airlines prioritizing character over specific skill sets. Delegation is another important strategy, enabling business growth and skill development among employees.
Having a contingency plan is vital for dealing with unexpected challenges, and prioritizing risks is necessary to avoid wasting resources. A reliable billing system is crucial for maintaining cash flow, and some businesses may benefit from outsourcing this task or using online tools like Hiveage. Exceptional customer service is integral, often leading to loyal customers and reduced costs compared to acquiring new ones.
Understanding new legislation, such as the Affordable Care Act, is important for small business owners to navigate potential impacts on their operations. Finally, effective marketing is necessary for attracting and retaining customers, and it involves understanding the audience, creating a strategy, targeting marketing efforts, and developing a comprehensive marketing plan.
Key Takeaways:
- Creating a positive corporate culture can significantly increase employee productivity and, by extension, business profitability.
- Hiring individuals with the right character is essential for a business’s success, as skills can be taught but character cannot.
- Effective delegation and empowering employees with decision-making capabilities are key strategies for business efficiency and growth.
“Good customer service is about more than just presenting a smiling face. It directly factors into your profits because most companies need repeat business to flourish. Business Case Studies reveal that it costs five times as much to gain a new customer as it does to hold onto a current one.”
More details: https://www.hiveage.com/blog/8-things-every-small-business-owner-needs-to-know/#
