Growing Your Small Business

Starting a business is always risky but the age we live in actually has some pretty cool bonus features that business owners didn't have fifty years ago. The age of technology has put things in the hands of start-up companies that will save them money as the business grows. Making a profit in the first year isn't incredibly common but there are a variety of ways to make sure you're not losing money upon the first year of opening. Depending on the market you're trying to break into many of these tools will be one of your biggest aids in your arsenal.

Using Social Media For Good

Believe it or not social media is one of the most versatile and best tools readily available at no cost for start-up companies and works the best in lead management. Instagram and twitter are great platforms to connect with followers and spread awareness of your upcoming business. Post teaser pictures of products, design, and sales. Create a company twitter that has information about the company, ways to contact like email or a link to the company website, and it gives your company an identity rather than just a link. Adding personality will grow interest especially if the account launches before the business.

Instagram and Twitter are good for advertising at zero cost! You're already paying for artwork, copy, editing, models, time etc why use more money to run a commercial or place an add on a billboard when you can upload your own photos? You can upload videos too or post on Instagram Live for an interactive stream. Host Q&A's before the launch of the company or give out dates for a soft opening if you're able. The possibilities with just these two apps are endless. Not to mention finding staff through social media or job apps like LinkedIn or Google Jobs.

Good Leaders

One of the most important foundations of any good and growing business is leaders. Whether you're starting with a group of six and looking to expand in a few months having a good leader that can show good behavior by example will pave the way for everyone else to follow in their footsteps. Demeanor trickles down from upper management to employee. Why would a lower rank employee follow company policy if their boss doesn't? It's crucial especially for freshly born companies to stick to a specified code of conduct and responsibility or you'll crash before you leave the runway.

Leaders in management is just as important. Normally in business there is a standard hierarchy where the ones ranking higher correct the lower and so forth. With a string of managers it's imperative if there is need for redirecting that it happens in a respectful but clear manner. Modeling the wanted behavior is a good way to show correct conduct and attitude if that is an area someone is struggling in. Above all people in leadership positions are the beacon of what is expected of everyone else in the company. Make sure you model what is acceptable and required of your team.

Branch Out And Make Friends

Making friends and connections in the business is another benefactor of creating a successful company. Handing out business cards to local places around the area your office is in is a great start to get to know your neighbors and connect with other business owners. Word of mouth is as good as a viral twitter threat and making friends with the people who surround your office or store is a great way to make a good first impression. And, sometimes you can end up recruiting people from other places that are either looking for a second job or just want a change of pace.

Starting up a business is always a scary leap but you don't have to be jumping in the dark. Use the tools around you to make profit, make a good product, and make your employees enjoy working for you.