No, thanks, I don’t want to grow my business.
For most business owners and professionals today, this is a rarely uttered phrase. There is always a craving to grow and develop a little more than you already have. But where to start? Sometimes, growing your business can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Check out these small things that can have huge impacts on your business.
- Don’t just answer “How are you?” with “Fine.” You’re not just fine, you’re excited, optimistic, and looking to grow your business! When someone in your life asks how you are doing, or what is new, this is a great opportunity to mention casually that you’re growing or looking to find ways to grow. You never know who this person may know, or in what ways they can help you thrive.
- Ask for what you want! If you have a specific person in mind you’d like to be connected to, a specific part of your business you’d like to develop further, or a specific amount of business you’d like to do in the next year, ask for it! Be specific with your wants and needs – your network can only help you get where you want to go if they know what that goal looks like.
- When a client gives you a positive review, ask them to share it or for referrals. When a client tells you how much they enjoy working with you, or thank you for going above and beyond for them, ask them to share that positive feedback, either via your Facebook, pages like Yelp, or in writing so that you may share it on your website. Also ask them if they know anyone else who may benefit from getting the same great service you gave them.
- Thank those who help you grow your business. By publically showing appreciation for the people who helped you get where you are now, you’ll increase the likelihood that others will help you, either by referral, by advertising, or with day to day activities. People love to feel like what they do matters, and they are more likely to help people who have a history of showing gratitude. (Recommended article: Let Gratitude Grow Your Business)
- Give referrals to someone in your network. By passing a quality referral to someone else in your network, you help build your own credibility. People want to refer business to others that they trust, and sharing referrals with others is a great way to build mutual respect. It’s what BNI meetings are based around – by giving business to others, you will get business in return.
What are you doing to grow your business? Join the conversation on Facebook!