1. Over deliver, but don’t over promise. - Most companies do just the opposite. They want that sale so they promise their customers the moon but then they fall just a little short. They might have provided exceptional customer service, but excellent service looses its luster if it falls short of the promise. In fact, [...]

1. Look Over Your Shoulder – Of course, Punxsutawney Phil has to look over his to search for his shadow. You should, too, every so often, to check out your competition…and see whether they’re gaining on (or leading) you.
2. Be Unique – While groundhogs normally live six to eight years, legend says there is only [...]

1. Encourage Input – Google team members live by a code of “tolerance and respect.” Once decisions are made, the company insists upon consensus and cooperation from everyone.
2. Think Lean – A typical employee-to-manager ratio in the technology industry is seven-to-one. Google averages 20 employees for every manager…the result of an inclusive culture.
3. Focus On [...]

1. Trust Your Team – Delegation. Empowerment. Call it what you wish. You can’t do everything by yourself. Hire the best people, train them well, then get out of their way.
2. Communicate – You may know where your small business is heading, but if your employees don’t, they can’t help you get there. Make time [...]

Over one half of all new businesses fail within the first 3 years of trading. But with sound planning, some business knowledge and most important of all a great dream you can dramatically improve your chances of surviving, growing and succeeding.
Have Long Term Goals
The primary task in managing a business is deciding its long-term objectives. [...]

1. “Never miss a good chance to shut up.” – As the saying goes, you never learn anything while you’re talking. Make sure to listen more…to your customers, employees and advisors.
2. “If you’re riding ahead of the herd, take a look back every now and then to make sure it’s still there.” – Always remember, [...]

1. There Are No “gimmes” – They count two-foot putts on the PGA Tour. Hold your small business team accountable for completing everything they commit to starting.
2. Set Priorities – Like Jack Nicklaus before him, Tiger plans his schedule around peaking at the majors. Make time to prioritize your daily, weekly and monthly goals for [...]

1. Have A Strong Constitution – Justices deliver decisions by interpreting the U.S. Constitution. Never let the challenges of running your small business overwhelm your judgment.
2. Trust Your Beliefs – Members of the Court maintain supreme confidence in their opinions. Know your core values, and let them serve each day as your guiding light.
3. Treat [...]

1. Know Where You’re Going – Coach Herb Brooks had a strategic plan for assembling the American team. Take time to determine the direction you want to take your small business, then put in place the action steps and players to accomplish your goals.
2. Rise To The Occasion – 13 days earlier, Russia beat the [...]