A few weeks back, I wrote a post about your business having a personality. For those of you who haven't had a chance, I'd skip over to that post then back to this one, since this is part 2.
It's a new year and that means it's perfect timing to give you a run down of some of the things I did to improve my business's personality. It's not easy and it takes time, focus and effort on the part of the business owner, but it can be done.
1. Figure out your mission/goals for your business
If you've done this before, then do this again. And if you've never done this, then today is the day you start. I don't just mean writing out the financials/sales that you'd like to make, either. I want to you to understand WHY you are doing what you're doing. It's not enough to just go through the motions and hope for the best.
I recently realized that I was off track and forgot my "WHY." Once I wrote down and my WHY, I realized that it had actually changed (no surprise here) since starting my business. With my new WHY in mind, it helped me take the next best step.
2. Your NEW vision
Now that you know WHY you you started, make a list of where you want to see your company go. My advisor told me a while back to start with a financial goal and work backwards into the day-to-day operations. So if I wanted to make a million dollars, what kind of staff would I need to support that amount of sales? For me, I like to have my vision include all of it: from the financial goals to the team I'd need to support it. It helps to see your goal in a different light especially if it's something bigger than you normally shoot for.
3. One day at a time
Remember that you are human and take this one day at a time. I learned that the worst thing I can do is criticize and blame myself for shortcomings. Action beats out fear every single time, so if you're feeling a bit like you dropped the ball, don't worry. Start with your WHY, then focus on your vision and take steps/action every day to revamp your business and recharge its personality.
Keep in mind that your business is always changing, as do your goals, wants, values and mission. It happens to everyone! Remember that change can be a good thing, when handled correctly. Your business has a personality and it's based on you.
So what are you doing to make your business awesome?
What have you done to improve your business's personality? Let us know in the comments below!
-Sayeh, The Office Stylist