Every business owner has his or her own comfort levels, but knowing how to set limits, saying no when the time is appropriate, and managing expectations is a skill many entrepreneurs learn the hard way.
When the day-to-day workings of your enterprise start to obscure the big picture, it may be time to take a step back. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Small Business Owners eBook has been written to help you develop the habits you need to succeed, like setting boundaries and standing by your principles when establishing your company.
Drawing boundaries is an important part of business
There's a difference between a good decision based on your values and one that comes with guilt, coercion, or confusion. The most successful leaders are those who understand the difference.
The road to a successful business is full of potholes, and one of the largest, especially for business owners still gaining confidence, is the unwanted influence of friends and acquaintances. Some people, especially those with prior personal or professional ties to you, expect special treatment.
Avoiding the slippery slope of giving mates’ rates is an important step for any business owner. When it comes to your company, business is only ever business; friends and family members aren't entitled to anything from you that you don’t feel comfortable giving. Outside perspectives, from non-professionals, from friendly advice to asking for freebies, should be firmly and politely resisted.
When listening matters
Those who don't know you, unlike your well-meaning but likely misguided mates, will be unbiased when offering you feedback and advice. You may not realise this, but your local customer base can be one of your most trusted professional resources, giving you the tools to grow your brand awareness and support you to succeed.
Drawing from your geographical area and reaching out to those in your community – from sponsoring sports teams to getting involved in local fundraisers – can be a great way to support your local economy while gaining insights from those who only wish you well. Your company identity is based on what your company sells, what services it performs, and your target audience.
Once set, these are fundamentals from which you should not waiver or without a sound strategic reason, despite the appeal of ‘selling out’ in return for a quick payout.
Whether you know where to start or are still seeking the path to prosperity, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Small Business Owners eBook can give you the support you need, whether that means reminders on positive boundaries or insider tips on how to say ‘no’.
