Management: What’s on your Mind?

Now, is the time to solve problems and seize opportunities.

Small business owners are said to be perpetual optimists. I believe optimistic yes–and savvy. Use your savvy this fall to build a success team. Here’s how:

1. Surround yourself with positive people. Stay focused and upbeat through turbulent times. Check out Barry Moltz’s book on resilience. Don’t let the economy get you down, bounce back with a focus on the future and what you can do to influence positive outcomes.

2. Seek out mentors. Don’t go it alone, when you can get an experienced mentor for free and confidential advice. Ask SCORE. SCORE has helped small businesses make it big. Check out Vera Bradley Designs.

3. Search for niche opportunites. Look at your product or service line-up carefully. Are there product or service extensions that will help you increase sales with existing clients. Is there an unmet need that gives you a way to customize a current offering to make it more appealing. Set up 2009 with a focus on adapting what you offer–to what clients may want in this economy.

4. What’s on your mind? What questions do you have? Is there a burning issue you would like to see answered on the blog? Share a comment or question. What do you need to know to succeed in 2009?

Christine Banning, SCORE
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