So often although we want to grow our businesses, there are hidden obstacles in our way, like too big a goal, unanswered questions, lack of time or focus, etc. Recently, I learned of a growth process from my brilliant friend and author, Bella Englebach. It is a concept that comes out of the Lean Manufacturing…
Everyone wants customers who rave about them to others. Getting a positive, personal recommendation from a friend or neighbor carries more weight than the most expensive advertising. It’s a trust issue. We know our friends and neighbors are self-motivated to tell their story, there is no payment involved. They want the best for us and…
Reality and truth depend largely on one’s point of view. What happens in a company when the numbers are off? People in the organization cast blame, often focusing on others instead of themselves. The question isn’t who is right because, with willingness, that can improve. The numbers appear to be the issue, but it’s much…
Every single day we have at least one marketing opportunity presented to us. They appear as people, ideas or events. Often, we have to raise our awareness to realize they are even visible. Only then can we choose one to pursue. There are 2 beginning steps to using opportunity as a lever: Figure out where…
I’ve worked with many different kinds of businesses over the last 20 years. The one common denominator of the very successful was this: they learned how to think about marketing. They didn’t try to ignore it, they were determined to learn. Here’s a checklist for what you should be learning and asking questions about along…
Sam Zell is a billionaire who made his fortune in real estate investing. During his last year of law school while still in his mid-twenties he made over $250K from his investments. After graduation, Sam began working at a law firm that started the new associates on contracts for various clients. When he got his…
What’s the number one complaint across the board with service businesses? Poor Communication. If you have ever tried to call for service and the only option you were given was an answering system that doesn’t call you back, you know what we mean. Great communication with your prospects and clients is extremely important and PROFITABLE.…
It isn’t rocket science but it’s amazing how many owners ignore this habit that has a triple benefit. Say Thank You. To your clients at the end of a job, or in the middle or even the beginning. Enthusiasm makes the journey fun. You has some responsibility for making it pleasant so don’t forget this.…
It’s easy to fly by the seat of our pants when it comes to customer conversations. We think we know what information we need to convey and we so often only ask questions that WE need answers to in order to put a statement of work together and get the job. Even though you want…
Are you asking the right questions? When you think about the growth of your business, do you know how many clients you need to make it a profitable year? Do you know your cost per lead? Or the ROI of the marketing you are currently doing? Most businesses copy other businesses. This is almost as…