Getting past $1 million in revenues is a goal that most entrepreneurs would love to achieve, and one that frequently remains as elusive as it is attractive. But if your business can make it to $1 million and reach a level of sustainability, it will have a much higher chance of survival.
Hire Talented, Driven People
It may seem like a no-brainer, but the quality of your staff reflects your company. Aim for people who are more talented at what they do than you are at what you do, and you’ll be on the right track. Spend time hiring candidates who add to both your business and your company culture. Focus on hiring people with a can-do attitude over flawless experience. Candidates who are engaged and willing and able to tackle any challenge can be more teachable and bring valuable energy.
Find Your Uniqueness
Think about what will set you apart from your competition. For us, it was personalization. “I spent a lot of time closing every deal that I had the opportunity to, and for each deal I put together a unique proposal for that client. I researched each business inside and out to truly understand their needs. I focused on providing a personalized approach to everything we did; it really set us apart from other agencies,” explains Smartt Serres. “There is no ‘one size fits all’ for clients.”
Remember Marketing and Networking Go Hand-in-Hand
“My goal has always been to be like Starbucks: on every corner. While we can’t have an office in every location, we can use mobile signs, flyers, and so on,” notes Smartt Serres. Spend at least one hour a day on social media, growing your network and strategically connecting with leaders. Your target audience should dictate where you spend your time, and there’s ample research out there to help you determine which social media tools to focus on.
Listen to Feedback
Your employees, clients, and community members are your single biggest asset. Your staff will have some good ideas. Listen to their input, ask questions, and consider any angles you have missed. “We use a suggestions form on our website that we ask all staff and employees to fill out (you can make yours anonymous for more candid suggestions),” Smartt Serres says. “Some of the most innovative solutions have come from surprising market pressures, and when you’re open to feedback, you will be better prepared to act before anyone else can.”
Stay True to Your Vision
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Source: Black Enterprise
