I’ve even managed to take some time off.
I’d like all my subscribers to feel as good about their business as I do about mine, so I thought I’d take a moment to share 5 things I attribute to my successful 2005.
1. Attended seminars. This one is HUGE. Nothing beats getting out of your office and away from your computer and actually meeting people face to face. I’ve come away from
these events with clients, joint venture partners, and more. (And that doesn’t even include the great information I absorbed and was able to put to use in both my business and
my clients’ businesses.) If you only put one of my 5 tips to use, this would be the one to do — that’s how valuable I’ve discovered attending seminars to be.
2. Hired a coach. Again, this was another tough decision to make, but I’m really glad I did. It’s difficult to see your business objectively, so having a neutral observer on your
team is extremely valuable. Coaches help you get out of your own way (and believe me, that’s a biggie for us entrepreneurs.) They can help you with both your inner game (your habits and mindset) and your outer game (your skills and business structure). I’ve used two great ones, Melanie Benson Strick, http://www.successconnections.com and Nancy
Marmolejo, http://www.comadrecoaching.com
3. Started systemizing my business. Unless you want to be chained to your business night and day, you have got to start systemizing your business. Yes, all businesses should have systems in place, even if you don’t have anyone else working for you and you primarily sell services. The best part is when you do have systems in place, your business suddenly starts running a lot more efficiently and effectively (and you can start sleeping better at night and relaxing on vacation). If you want some help with this, Beth Schneider, http://www.processprodigy.com is fabulous.
4. Outsourced. For all you control freaks out there, this one is for you. If you don’t start hiring some help, I guarantee you’ll never be able to grow your business because you’ll be constantly doing tasks you have no business doing. Do yourself a favor and get some help…NOW. I’ve just hired a project manager/director of client services, plus I have 2 backup writers and 2 virtual assistants. Building a team has been a big stress reliever
for me.
5. Focused on my inner game. Shifting my mindset away from “freelancer” to “business owner” was another big piece of the puzzle. As soon as I made that shift, all the other four techniques fell into place because it suddenly made them easier to do.
It’s tough to change your inner game on your own — hiring a coach is probably the fastest way to do this. But there are some good resources out there if you want to begin dabbling in it first. T Harv Ecker and Mike Litman both have some good products to get you started.
Michele PW (Michele Pariza Wacek) is your Ka-Ching! marketing strategist and owns Creative Concepts and Copywriting LLC, a copywriting and marketing agency. She helps entrepreneurs become more successful at attracting more clients, selling more products and services and boosting their business. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.MichelePW.com. Copyright 2008 Michele Pariza Wacek.
