ADVICE FROM THE PROS-
Bimonthly, a group of business professionals meet to discuss different topics. At this session the discussion question was: “WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER ENTREPRENEURS STARTING 2023?”. It is a simple question with deep meaning considering the shifting sands of commerce and the economy.
#1 PROS NEED PROS- School is never out for the true professional. We need others to serve as resources for information and connections. We need the knowledge of others in other professions to broaden our understanding of business and the world in general and to listen to other’s opinions. 
These connections also offer strategic alliances to create opportunities. The smart entrepreneur surround themselves with even smarter colleagues.
#2 SERVE PEOPLE- Don’t chase the money. Contribute time, information, knowledge, and connections to those around you and the business will follow.
#3 DON’T FORGET WHAT GOT YOU HERE. During the past 5 years we have all become very transactional and internet based instead of relationship oriented. Get back to what made you successful in the first place: networking, deepening relationships and showing gratitude. It is face to face or voice to voice, not robocalling.
#4 STAY VISABLE.- Work you existing database following up with past clients, inquiries, and referral partners. Blog, use social media and send appropriate and meaningful information to your database. Your client may not need you right now but when they do you need to be top of mind and easy to find.
#4 DEMONSTRATE YOUR VALUE. What problem do you solve for people and how can you help them better their lives professionally or personally? Answer questions that are most important to them. Stop SELLING and start SERVING. Share knowledge people need to make decisions. Clarify your differences from other options.
#5 KNOW THE VALUE OF TIME AND ENERGY.- Focus, prioritize and avoid distractions. Initiate systems and process so you can spend more time with people and not in front of computers. Have focused goals and review them daily or weekly. Make sure large tasks are broken down into smaller, bit sized pieces and DO, DELEGATE OR DUMP. Learn how to say NO to requests or people that do not help you get closer to your goals. Associate with those who give your energy and avoid energy vampires.
#6 SHIFT AND BE CREATIVE- Find a need, fill a need. Find a new group or niche that needs the solution that you represent. Use an old tool a different way or make the old new again. Direct mail and handwritten notes are coming back.
#7 HAVE FAITH AND LEARN FROM THE PAST.- Expect the best but prepare for the worst. Diversify both your own financial portfolio and the type of groups that you interact with. See where you have had success and do more of it. Know that whatever happens, “This too shall pass.” The only constant in life is change. Keep the attitude of faith and gratitude and you can overcome anything.
#8 THE POWER OF NOW.- Successful people are “LUCKY” because they see the opportunity in any situation. 2023 will be a year of opportunity if you just pay attention to the shifting needs and fears of your clients.
You can either be a person that chases the money or a person who chases and collects relationships.
SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE VALUE RELATIONSHIPS ABOVE ALL ELSE.
These incites from today and from every session are why I have been attending for over 15 years BUSINESS CONVERSATION the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, currently meeting at Chick fil A in Brookfield from 8:00-9:30 AM. Come join us at our next meeting on January 20th. It is FREE and there are no membership criteria. To get on our distribution reminder list email Linda McCaffrey at linda.mccaffrey@cbmoves.com.