Running a small business can be immensely fulfilling, but can also have its downsides and difficult days. From clients who don’t pay their invoices on time, to customers who are unhappy with you and being very vocal about it.
By approaching any issues and difficulties with a clear strategy, you can help yourself and your staff overcome issues in a consistent and effective way. Outlining procedures, being clear about your desired outcomes, and encouraging consistency within your business will help you tackle things sympathetically but firmly.
I don’t claim to have all the answers to running your business, but I’ve picked up some good practices and handy tips during my years as a Deputy Chief Executive for a national charity, running my own business, and in other roles. More often than not, the best way to diffuse a tricky situation or move forward is to be clear: with yourself, with the customer/client, and with your processes.
Running a small business isn’t all about the business, either. Because of the pressure that comes with it, it’s vitally important that you look after yourself. Ensure you get enough rest, give yourself breathing space and don’t try to do everything yourself.
If you’re working from home, remember to be firm about your working hours and your personal hours, and try and create a dedicated space for work. That way, the lines won’t so easily blur between work and play.
Of course, we all know that this is easier said than done! I know exactly how hard it can be to stick with these rules, but being as consistent as possible with this will help immensely in the long run. After all, you can’t run a successful business if you’re completely burnt out!
There are lots of other elements to running a small business. You might also find these useful:
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