Now that the election is over, where do we go from here? We cannot wait for Washington to solve our problems.
If the economy has you thinking your business isn’t doing well, be proactive. Join your Chamber of Commerce. I have been a member of the Lee’s Summit Chamber for years and found they do an excellent job.
Second, start networking with people of similar business needs and ideas. Join the Optimist Club, Rotary, Knights of Columbus or Masons. Several heads are always better than one.
Third, start a food drive to help your local food pantry.
Finally, all of the churches in the area have people of all ages, needs and opportunities. Join one of them.
I hope our new president is someone we can all look up to. But let’s start immediately doing things here in Kansas City that will cause Washington to look up to us.
Jim Lysaght
Lee’s Summit
Speaking of ways to strengthen a small business during hard times, how about some very simple and inexpensive tactics?
Word of mouth has been proven to be the best marketing tool, so the happier you make your customers, the more referrals you will get.
I'm speaking mainly to service companies here. Return phone calls in a timely manner. Show up for appointments on time. Submit a professional looking bid and do it quickly -- and follow up.
Believe it or not, I have hired roofers, construction companies, landscapers and concrete finishers based on the fact that they were the only people who cared enough to call me back and pursue my business. I wasn't entirely happy with all their work, but I couldn't wait for hell to freeze over so the other companies would return my phone calls either. I never cease to be amazed at how many small business owners run their businersses as though they don't need any more customers.
Posted by: TinaMcG | November 13, 2008 at 01:37 PM