This month, Mischa Communications is celebrating 10 years in business. And considering that only about a third of small businesses will ever see this milestone, we think it’s definitely something to write home about.
Ten years ago, the last Oprah Winfrey Show episode aired, as did the first episode of Game of Thrones. Netflix introduced online streaming, only a quarter of all cellphones were “smart,” and Snapchat was in its infancy.
A lot has changed in 10 years. A lot of small businesses have come and gone. But we’re still here. And if you want to follow in our footsteps, here are 10 tips to help you on your way to 10 years.
10 Tips to Keep Your Small Business Thriving
Listen to Customer Needs
You’re only as successful as your customers make you, so take the time to listen to what they’re telling you – both verbally, in the form of customer feedback, and non-verbally, by what they’re buying (or not buying).
Create Multiple Price Points
We all want our customers to buy our most expensive doodads and thingamajigs, but isn’t it better to sell something rather than nothing at all? We’re not suggesting you offer BMWs at BMX prices, but there’s a lot to be said for multiple price points, a la carte options, and even a deal here and there!
Stay Current on Technology
When it comes to marketing your small business, best practices are going to change constantly. Make sure you’re staying current on technology, keeping a finger on the pulse of the industry and jumping on the most profitable bandwagons.
Look to the Future
Planning for now is great, but don’t forget to plan for tomorrow, next month and next year, too. You should always have one eye on the future.
Keep in Touch
A customer doesn’t stop being a customer as soon as they’ve signed their credit card receipt. Stay in touch even after the sale, and you’ll be top of mind the next time they need something.
Treat Your Team Right
If you’re lucky enough to have a core group of employees supporting you, treat them right! Empower them, reward them and arm them with everything they need to make the sale, lest you find yourself alone onstage just moments before the show starts.
Never Be Satisfied
There’s no such thing as a perfect small business, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your darndest to become one. You can be happy with the way things are going, but never get so complacent that you consider yourself satisfied. There are always improvements to make.
Have a Plan for the Tough Times
Being a small business owner isn’t always a basket full of puppies. You’re going to run into tough times on occasion. Business is slow. A product or service bombs. Your business is set upon by an angry contingent of customers with torches and pitchforks. No matter what happens, have a contingency plan so you can get yourself back up and running with as little downtime as possible.
Play by the Rules
There are rules to running a small business, both written and unwritten. Be a decent human being and follow them. There’s no room here for shady business practices.
Go the Extra Mile
If we had to choose one single piece of advice to give to small business owners, it would be to go the extra mile for their customers. Reward their loyalty. Give them a special promotion. Shell out some swag. Treat them the way you’d want to be treated and then go just a bit beyond that. It’ll be worth it.
Thank You for a Fantastic 10 Years!
Mischa Communications wouldn’t be where we are today without our customers, and we’re forever grateful for the support you’ve given us over the past 10 years. We can’t wait to see where the next 10 years takes us!
Do you want to ensure your small business is one of the few that survive the long haul? Mischa Communications can help you accomplish that goal. We’re just a click away.