As a small business owner, you already know that running a business is full of challenges. You’re often balancing several roles—marketer, accountant, strategist—all while keeping the day-to-day operations in check. With all of this on your plate, how do you continue to grow, make an impact, and set yourself apart? After years of working with small business owners as an entrepreneur and business coach, I’ve compiled 12 key principles that can help you get to that next level.
1. Walk Into a Room Like You Own It
First impressions are everything. Whether you’re meeting with a potential client or networking at an event, confidence is key. When you enter a room, do so with purpose. Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and say your name clearly. These small gestures make a significant difference in how others perceive you, setting the stage for stronger business relationships.
2. Introduce Others When Someone New Joins the Conversation
This simple act is often overlooked but incredibly powerful. When a new person joins your conversation, take the initiative to introduce them. It shows you’re considerate and confident, and it sets the tone for open, collaborative dialogue. Plus, it’s a great way to position yourself as a connector—someone who brings people together.
3. Know Your Audience in Advance
Before you walk into any meeting, presentation, or networking event, make sure you’ve done your homework. Understanding who you’re talking to—whether it’s a potential client or an industry peer—will allow you to tailor your message and leave a lasting impact. It’s not just about selling your product or service; it’s about resonating with the people you’re engaging with.
4. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Growth doesn’t happen when you stay comfortable. Take every opportunity to push yourself beyond what’s familiar. Whether it’s speaking at an event, exploring a new market, or learning a new skill, stepping out of your comfort zone is one of the fastest ways to grow as a business owner—and as an individual.
5. Be Worldly
To thrive in business, it’s essential to broaden your horizons. Travel, read about other cultures, and if possible, learn new languages. This isn’t just about impressing people; it’s about expanding your mind. The more you know about the world, the better equipped you’ll be to connect with diverse customers and markets.
6. Be Indispensable
Whatever you do, aim to be the person no one can imagine the team functioning without. Whether you’re an employee or a business owner, being indispensable means going above and beyond in every task. Solve problems before they happen, offer value before it’s asked of you, and always be the person others turn to for advice or support.
7. Have a “Can-Do” Attitude
A positive mindset is a game changer in business. It’s not about being blindly optimistic, but rather believing that with the right approach, any challenge can be tackled. Your attitude sets the tone for your team and your clients, and people are naturally drawn to those who believe in finding solutions.
8. Accept That Cup of Coffee
It may sound trivial, but sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference. If someone offers you a cup of coffee or a drink, accept it. It’s an opportunity to bond, and it’s also a way to show that you’re approachable. Often, the most meaningful business relationships are formed over simple moments like these.
9. Work on Networking and Improving Your Online Reputation
Building a strong online presence is critical in today’s business environment. Regularly engage on platforms like LinkedIn, comment on posts, share valuable content, and connect with others in your industry. The more visible and engaged you are online, the more credible and relevant you become in the eyes of potential clients and partners.
10. Under-Promise, Over-Deliver, and Out-Behave
Reputation is everything in business. Always strive to exceed expectations—whether that’s in the results you deliver or the way you conduct yourself. It’s one thing to deliver great work, but it’s another to do it with professionalism, integrity, and humility. Out-behave your competition by setting a higher standard.
11. Want to Explore a Startup? Work for Free
For those looking to break into a new industry or explore a startup idea, offering your skills for free could be your way in. It may sound counterintuitive, but providing value before asking for something in return shows initiative and builds trust. Plus, the experience and insights you gain could be invaluable for your next venture.
12. Help Others
Lastly, always be willing to help others—whether it’s offering advice to a peer or lending a hand to someone just starting out. Business isn’t just about transactions; it’s about relationships. By supporting others, you build a strong network that can, in turn, support you when you need it.
These principles have been instrumental in my journey as an entrepreneur and business coach, and they can do the same for you. Remember, success is as much about soft skills—like building relationships and creating value for others—as it is about traditional business tactics. Ready for more insights? Follow me on LinkedIn, and for a deeper dive, check out my book, *Marketing on Main Street*, available on Amazon.