This is a serious subject! There are a number of ways a business can be held at ransom. I’m going to talk about what I perceive are the five top ones. Do not think it won’t happen to you. I’ve seen it happen to nice, smart, intelligent or experienced people. Sometimes it happens because we…
Business owners are hardworking and often have an exceptional work ethic. They don’t mind rolling up the sleeves and doing big hours. The negative of this is that often they have trouble winding down or switching off entirely. Over several decades, I’ve known the challenges of getting motivated to start, and then the ability to…
As a business coach, it’s interesting how many businesses I come across who don’t have many (or any) testimonials. I see nothing on their website or in their marketing. I ask if they have a process for consistently asking for a testimonial, review or recommendation and so often the answer is no. …
Yep, you read that right – bullies in business. You figured when you left school you’d left bullies behind. But I guess they grow up and continue their practices in their adult life. I draw on the belief that we can do smart business whilst still being ethical, honest and just. I approach business from…
Whether you know it or not, your competitors are one of the best teachers for you. If you have just started out in the industry and your competitors have been on it for many years now, there is a lot that you can learn from them. As a businessperson, it is extremely crucial…
I know as a business coach that getting paid is a constant pain for business owners. Bad debts, cash flow challenges and slow payers can be serious challenges. We do a great job, deliver the product or service and then sit back waiting (sometimes forever) to get that hard-earned dollar back in our pocket. …
Over 85% of business comes from referrals! I read this stat in a book. I strongly believe a large percentage of business comes about through referrals – directly or indirectly as a recommendation. Remember that when you view someone’s website and read a recommendation saying how great that business is…
When it comes to marketing, your sales process or even sending through a quote, here are some pretty basic mistakes to avoid. Yes, they are marketing ‘rookie’ mistakes; however I still see them happening time and time again, so thought worth mentioning. Why does it matter? Well, in your marketing, you are…
These are just the top 7 things which those of us in business should be doing with caution and care. Read on each as you can do these things but with the right action. Business with caution and care 1. Sign contracts or enter deals Before you sign a…
I wanted to share a story with you. A true story. A few years back I lost a client worth $12K per annum. It was my fault, although at the time I was a little peeved at the lack of understanding from the client. Let me tell you what happened. A very…