Back to School – Business Edition

As children return to school this Fall, it’s time for business owners to start thinking about a fresh perspective on their companies and prepare for the upcoming new year. Here are a few ways that professionals can learn more and achieve more, taking cues from the students they once were:

• Ask for help when needed. It’s okay not to understand everything about running your business. If there’s an area of business that you struggle to manage, ask a colleague or hire an outside expert to help in that area.
• Pick a major and stick with it. Stay true to your passions, strengths and aptitudes when choosing your career or job responsibilities. Remember: Life is too short to spend it doing something you don’t enjoy.
• Pace yourself. Avoid getting overworked by scheduling out your week and giving yourself enough time to finish tasks and projects. Don’t try to take on too much work or commit to a project you can’t handle, or you won’t be able to complete it to your satisfaction.
• Stay competitive. Focus on professional development by seeking certification, or reading and attending trade shows, conferences, webinars and workshops for your industry or profession. Learn the latest ways to market your business, and always keep tabs on competitors and top players in your industry.
• Dress the part. For a business, this means having a professional brand image (logo and messaging), print materials, mobile-friendly website and a social media presence. If it’s been a while since you’ve changed your company brand or website, it may be time for a refresh. In addition to your company’s brand, other ways you can improve your image may include employee uniforms, vehicles, store signage or even personal style, which can all reflect positively or negatively on a business.
• Look to connect. Never underestimate the importance of continued networking with colleagues in your industry and local area. This helps you and your company to stay visible to potential customers, partners and the media.
• Upgrade your technology. With so many businesses relying on technology to run efficiently and stay ahead of the game, make sure you have all the equipment and networking to succeed.

 

While you may be done with school, as a business owner or professional, you’re still not done learning. With continuous improvement, such as upgrading your technology, re-branding or networking, you’ll find that you’re investing in your business (and yourself) while working on your business.