Eric Tyson - Small Business For Dummies

Eric & Jims 20 Tips for Small-Business Success

1.Not everyone is cut out to be a small-business owner. Take the time to explore whether youre compatible with running your own business. Some people are happier (and better off financially) on the other end of a paycheck.

2.Get your personal finances in order. Before you jump into the entrepreneurial fray, get your own money matters squared away.

3.Pick your niche. Take stock of your skills, interests, and employment history to select the business best suited to you. Choosing a niche that you can be passionate about will also help improve your chances of succeeding. Remember: Many small-business owners succeed in businesses that are hardly unique or innovative.

4.Benefit from your business plan. The exercise of creating your business plan pays dividends. Answer the tough questions now, before the meter is running.

5.Dont think you need bankers and investors at the outset. The vast majority of small-business start-ups are bootstrapped (self-financed).

6.Know the hats you wear best. In the early months and years of your business, youll have to acquire many skills. Gain the background you need to oversee all facets of your business well, but determine what tasks you should outsource or hire employees to manage.

7.Remember that nothing happens until a sale is made. How many good products go nowhere because they dont reach the shelves? Sales are what will drive your business. You need a crackerjack marketing plan that details how you intend to package, promote, distribute, price, and sell your product or service.

8.You have to see a customer to know one. No matter how busy you are, especially in the early years of your business, be sure to spend at least 25 percent of your time with customers. You cant make the right business decisions without understanding the customers viewpoint.

9.Solve your customers problems. The best way to satisfy your customers is not by selling them products or services but by providing solutions to their problems. Understand the difference.

10.Keep in mind that quality takes only moments to lose and years to regain. Quality isnt a destination but rather a never-ending journey. After youve strayed from qualitys path, your journey may be sidetracked forever.

11.Put profitability first and rewards second. Beware of the small business that treats itself to hefty salaries, high-priced consultants, and waterfalls in the lobby. In small business, profitability must come first. In order to understand profitability, you must first learn how to measure your cash flow and understand your key financial ratios.

12.Hire superstars. If you intend to create a growing business, your number-one duty is to assemble a team of superstar employees in your gamebreaker positions.

13.Dont go it alone. Tap into resources such as small-business peers, mentors, and trade associations that can help take some of the energy-draining trial and error out of starting and running your business.

14.Remember that vendors are partners, too. A good vendor is as important to your business as a good customer. Treat your vendors like customers and watch the partnerships grow.

15.Make use of benefits. The most valuable long-term benefit you can offer yourself and your employees is a retirement savings plan. Also learn how to provide insurance and other benefits and cut your tax bill at the same time.

16.Ignore regulatory issues at your peril. Federal, state, and local government agencies require an array of licenses, registrations, and permits. Obey them or face stiff penalties, including possible closure of your business.

17.Know the tax laws. Invest in understanding tax issues that affect your small business. You can avoid trouble and, at the same time, legally slice thousands of dollars off your tax bill if you know the right moves.

18.Its the people, stupid! Whatever happens to a small business happens at the hands of the people who work it and work for it.

19.Fast, good, or cheap pick any two. Serious trouble awaits those who attempt to be all things to the marketplace. Focus on what you do best.

20.Develop a passion for learning. As your business changes and grows, you need to change and grow along with it particularly as you transition to manager. One common denominator can be found in all successful business owners a passion for learning.

Small Business For Dummies, 4th Edition

by Eric Tyson and Jim Schell

Small Business For Dummies, 4th Edition

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