With 2011 driving madly ahead, finding a fresh direction for your business can be hard, especially as the financial landscape changes so regularly.
Staples Entrepreneur of the Year and Twitter dragon Simon Dolan has a track record in successfully adapting the way he works to fit in with new business developments.
If the banks are being unhelpful, look at alternatives such as angel investors or family and friends
Simon, who runs SJD Accountancy, picked up the Staples-sponsored award at the British Chambers of Commerce Business Awards recently.
A successful author of business book, ‘How to Make a Millions without a Degree’, Simon has come up with some ideas that businesses should consider adopting in the year ahead.
1. Go green
A green business is also an efficient business. By having your green strategy and business strategy aligned, you will be saving money for your business.
2. Get ahead through social networking
If you aren’t using social media to augment your business, make 2011 the year of action! Using the likes of Linkedin and Twitter can have a huge impact on your business, for example monitoring comments on your company or sourcing new customers.
3. Be innovative in the methods used to access funds for your business
If the banks are being unhelpful, look at alternatives such as angel investors or family and friends.
4. Hire the right people
An entrepreneur’s life is made so much easier when they have people working with them that they trust. When looking for new staff, first instincts are rarely wrong.
5. Is SEO working for you?
Twenty years ago a small business needed a telephone, a directory and perhaps an advert in a local newspaper to gain customers. But 2011 is a different era, and no SEO strategy means far fewer sales.
Learn all you can on the subject through books and the internet, and if you require additional assistance look at employing a reputable company of SEO specialists to assist you.
6. Look at your competitors
A successful business is the one that does things better than their competitors. Analyse the marketplace and improve on it.
7. Look after your client list
Your database is a precious recourse. Ensure you look after it through regular email and telephone contact with clients, former clients and prospective clients. Let them know that you are thinking of them.
