MYTH: Working harder will get you to the next level in your business.
It is NOT about the number of hours you work but what you accomplish during that time. The expression work smart not harder indicates that more time should be spent on developing strategies and being introspective regarding goals and priorities. More time needs to be spent on strategic thinking and planning.
At a recent meeting of local business people of various professionals, the questions was asked, “What one thing will you do to move that needle of success for your business..” This is an extensive list but it will give you some ideas how to identify your one focus that will help you “move the needle” to improve your business. 
BE MORE VISIBLE:
- On Line: The importance of being able to be found online was discussedwith an emphasis on more effective websites, keywords and the importance of a strong social media platform for your business
- Thought Leadership: Highlight you expertise through seminars, blogs and handouts.
- Events and Tradeshows: Several upcoming opportunities were highlighted including sponsoring Chamber Events, nonprofit festivals and fund raising efforts of different organizations.
BE MORE ORGANIZED:
- Manage Your Datebases: Keeping track of and “touching” past and present clients through an up to date database is key to a successful business. A regular email enewsletter, drip campaign or mailings help keep clients. As much time should be spent on keeping current and past clients as on developing new businessStaff Up: Hiring and training needs to be done before an increase in business volume to insure continual top service.
- Create Job Descriptions: Multiple people in the same organization duplicating responsibilities causes confusion and potentially conflict. Clearly defined roles and expectations helps relieve stress and realizes efficiencies.
- Improve Processes: Every task needs a process: from answering the phone to how to “onboard” a new client. The process should be in writing so everyone in the organization is clear. Processes should be reviewed periodically for efficiency.
LEVERAGING CONNECTIONS:
- Co-marketing: Finding those symbiotic industries with whom you do not compete but who you have the same client base and then referring back and forth or doing events together will increase the results of your individual efforts
- Testimonials: Getting testimonials to use in brochures or to put on line from satisfied clients adds credibility which will help build trust with potential clients.
- Find Resources: Spend time searching for people that will help you in your business or will be of value for your clients.
- Build Your Team: Developing people in your organization through training and mentoring takes time away from “selling or prospecting” but will grow your bottom line through their increased competence. The more proficient your team becomes, the fewer problems will occur and the less time you will need to spend answering questions and overseeing work.
ADD CLIENTS:
- Add Equipment: Adding a new piece of equipment might help you to be able to service a new type of client.
- Define a Niche: Identify and pursue a new type of client.
- Identify Your Key Clients: By understanding who your best clients are, continually providing value to them, being continually visible will result in more orders and referrals from them.
- Stay Relevant: You need to provide value to your clients. You need to be continually aware that the industry, market conditions and client expectations change.
GROW PERSONALLY:
- Learn: Spend time every day reading, listening to webinars, going to seminars or interviewing and meeting with business owners who you admire
- Say NO: Whenever you say YES to something, you are saying NO to something else. Stay focused on your priorities and which activities feed your success.
- Let Go: The ultimate goal is to delegate or to outsource anything that keeps you from being with your clients. Also reflect periodically about efforts, activities and marketing and decide if they are worth the expense or time.
- Take Time Off: Working too hard “in the weeds” causes burnout, loss of productivity and leaves no time to plan or to think strategically.
- Practice Self Discipline: Define and establish new habits. Managing time means managing yourself and your habits based on your goals and priorities.
The definition of insanity is expecting different results but continuing to do the same activities. What habits do you need to focus on to change so that you can move the needle of your business??