By: Dave Cooper, RackNerd

I’ve had the pleasure of running my own business in the past and I’d like to share some tips with you that helped me grow my business, gain more customers, and be more profitable. 

It’s super simple but many business owners miss these most basic steps.

1.  Brand

The brand is everything, many business owners find this part hard. One thing to remember is first impressions last. If you have a crappy logo and an average web site, this is an immediate turnoff. You may not think it’s important but marketing your business professionally, setting up social media channels are the first things to do. This allows many ways for you to interact with potential customers. If you are unsure on how to do this, employ someone to help you design and market your brand. I say again first impressions last!

2.  Be Real

We are all humans, it’s okay to make mistakes but own them, don’t tell customers what they want to hear, tell them the truth and what they can expect from you and the services you offer. Always have a smile if talking in person, use emojis if emailing so you can set the mood. Try to see situations from a customer’s perspective.

3.  Your employees

If you have employees these are people you want to keep happy.  At the end of the day, they’re the ones supporting your customers and helping you bring in the money.  You need to understand that they have families and are living a life just like you are. It’s important to be firm but also understanding, this goes a long way and believe me, you will reap the benefits. Employees like to feel appreciated, once again put yourself in their shoes.

4.  Know what you can handle

Many business owners have big ideas and inspirations but don’t bite off more than you can chew. The age-old saying ‘Jack of all trades, master of none’ is very true, pick a few ideas and run with them, grow slowly and don’t be in a rush to make millions.  People appreciate the little guy; they feel more looked after and not just a number.  Don’t get me wrong I’d love for your business to grow large but enjoy the season you’re in.

5.  Don’t be afraid to try new things

Don’t let anyone tell you “ahh na that’s been done before” or “that won’t work” …. so negative :P.  You or someone else’s ideas may be the next big thing.  It’s okay for an idea to fail, if you don’t try you will never know.

6.  Don’t get stuck

Always upskill, align yourself with positive people and future thinkers, keep your eyes open on new trends, new ways of working and don’t get comfortable.

What other sort of tips have you found to be successful in running a business? Share in the comments section below!