Summary: New business owners are especially prone to delay taking action in their business, because the unknown outcome can be pretty intimidating. However, even seasoned entrepreneurs will put off taking action, simply due to the fact they lack the free time to juggle another endeavor. So, what to do when you know that taking action would benefit your business, but you can’t seem to implement much needed change? Ask yourself these questions: 1. Do I want to increase my income (grow my business)? 2. Do I want to grow my client base? 3. Do I want to create more free time? If you answered yes to at least one of these 3 questions, then taking action now is the best thing you can do for you – and your business. Just for a moment, let’s go back to the reason(s) you became an entrepreneur? Although there may be many reasons, they are all probably related to the following benefits: • More free time • Work from home • The freedom to make money doing what you enjoy • Independence, flexibility, and freedom with schedule • Unlimited earning potential • Didn’t want to work for anyone Sound familiar? My husband, Bill Bachrach, has a quote that applies to what we are talking about today. He says, “If comfort is your goal, success in NOT in your future.” Entrepreneurs have many reasons for going into business for themselves, but most reasons are directly related to flexibility, freedom, and income. The key in creating a business that remains flexible, provides freedom, and constantly grows (increasing income) is change. Taking action allows your business to grow with the changing demand and market. Every time you delay taking action, regardless of the reason, you are stalling your business and your success. Let’s take a look at 5 benefits of taking action – now. 1. Increase Revenue This should always be the first priority with your business, because when you increase sales, you increase income – and that creates more leverage. The more leverage you have, the easier it is to create a business that fits your lifestyle. Taking action is vital to increasing sales, so do not delay, do not wait – take action now. Whatever ideas you have to increase revenue, implement that new service or product, and get the word out. 2. Attract New Clients When you create or enhance new products and/or services, you have the opportunity to attract new clients. It’s important to add or enhance at least one product or service each year to keep the business fresh and in view of your clients. Use the launch of a product or service to gain “buzz” by sending an email to existing clients. Offer a “loyalty” discount to existing clients and their friends. You should also post the product or service on your website; link your social networking accounts (LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.) to that page and offer a “pre-launch” discount. 3. Enhance Company Brand and Reputation What businesses most frequently come to the mind of consumers? The businesses that are consistently in their attention. Clients must be able to see and hear you. Keep the “buzz” going, whether it’s by an email campaign; follow up phone calls; special announcements; mailers; advertising; etc. Being an “expert” is not the most important factor; the key is taking action. The only thing you need to concern yourself with is delivering the results that you say you can deliver. When clients need help, they will come to you, because you are in the forefront of their mind. That in itself conveys the perception of a company with a well-respected brand and reputation. 4. Get Ahead of the Competition Every time you take action, you take a step ahead of the competition. As an entrepreneur, you are well aware that there are other businesses offering the same product or service you do. So how do you stand out in a crowd? Make yourself heard. When you have an idea, take action. It only takes a single idea to catapult your success – just one – but, it takes consistent action to stay ahead of the
