Action...propel yourself forward

Getting stuck is something that happens to everyone.  Getting yourself and business in a forward propulsion can be tricky but taking the monotony and emotion out of your problem, may just help you solve it.  Regaining footing when you are stuck can be tough.  You've got to stabilize yourself, regain your footing, reposition your direction, dig your path and put all of your energy into your path.  It's a tough, but not insurmountable feat that with a little help you can roll forward and blaze new trails.  

Here are 3 ways to dig out of the mud.

1.  Remove emotion to counteract roadblocks:  Emotions bring defensive reactions and when there's work to be done a reality check is in order.  Think critically without blame to find a sensible alternative to your blocked path.  This will allow you to have clear focus, a key element in decision-making and problem-solving.  While business without emotion can be cold and unforgiving business with too much emotion can be irrational and indecisive.  Get yourself in a new frame of mind and look at your problem or roadblock as an outsider…give and take your own advice as a consultant.

2.  Get out your compass and map your path:  A solid plan, a clear path and knowing where you are will take the guesswork out of where to go, how to get there and how to remove roadblocks.  It does a business no good to propel forward aimlessly careening into potholes and sidetracking from the mission.  Take serious stock of your assets, your place in business or career and make a serious map.  Once you have a comprehensive assessment and plan you can make the decisions that will take you where you want to go.

3. Pick the right fuel to propel yourself forward:  Would you light your barbecue with jet fuel, would you use a match to start your car?  Of course not.  The friction of developing your work and habits into momentum should not dig you deeper into a rut, they should be strong enough to apply pressure to move your forward yet strategic enough to move you forward.  Give yourself the positive energy, spark of inspiration, and put enough pressure on yourself to succeed in whatever direction you position yourself in.  

It's not just business it's personal.

3 ways to make your business memorable and valuable by developing personal relationships with your clients.  

While you certainly don't want to damage a professional reputation with your clients, you do want to let your clients know you are invested in working with them and their success.  Go ahead and show a little love.  Here are a few easy ways to get started.

1. Buy a round of coffee:  Sitting down and getting to know your clients business and your client's personal style and preferences can help you work together.  Ask about how they like to communicate, text, email, phone calls, or personal visits…  the answer may get you more business than you knew was available.

2. Show your thanks:  Many familiar clients not only help keep us in business but expand it by referring others, giving positive feedback and reviews, and helping entrepreneurs find their niche.  Make sure you return the favor and keep you and your business in a positive light with a handwritten note, a phone call, and best yet refer someone.  A personal gesture shows you are thinking about your clients needs and investing in their business.  

3.  Be a resource:  Knowing local business owners and other entrepreneurs can make you a resource for all sorts of people.  Talking to people about their needs even those that don't pertain to your business can make you a valuable asset and "go-to" person.  Don't cross the line and be a "know-it-all" but refer and connect others to individuals and businesses that can follow through and be trusted to offer good products and services.  A can-do attitude, even for things you can't do yourself goes a long way.

What if the age old saying - If you build it, they will come - doesn't work?

What happens if the old saying is wrong?  What if you pour your heart and money into your new business and no customers line up?  Hang in there and borrow money from everyone you know till it turns around?  Close up shop, give up and get a job?  Hire a few sign holders to dance on the corner?

It turns out owning a business is more than just a great idea.  It's more that just a stellar product.  It's more that just a winning look.  Owning a small business is not for the faint of heart.  It takes a bit of grit, a lot of creativity, but mostly sweat.  Yes, not what most people want to hear.  It will take many hours of doing things you don't like for a little bit of satisfaction when what you love works. 

Here are 3 ideas to get you on track:

1. Network in Person:  Social media, websites, blogs and business profile pages are essential but don't let those replace the real social networks, meeting people face to face.  Go out to meet the business owners in your community.  You can introduce yourself to businesses in your town.  Take advantage of the local chamber of commerce after hours mixers and business lunches.  Visit your clients if you are a service or meet the locals for a community retail business.  The more the clients like you the more they will support you in your business.
2. Give your family and friends a shout:  Don't expect your family and friends to be your only client base but be sure to keep them in touch with what you are doing.  Keep your friends and family apprised of your achievements, works, new products and clients and let them know you appreciate and follow up with their referrals.  Be sure to take the utmost follow through and good work ethic with personal referrals.  It's the most important type of advertising.
3. Showcase: Be sure to put your best foot forward and put photos or stories about your work on media, in your store and in your sales presentation.  Your best work will sell itself.  If people see enough of your portfolio, product list or great ideas that have helped your clients they will be back for more.  Be patient, do good work and represent you and your clients well.