Here’s the 10 biggest entrepreneurial mistakes according to Mike Michalowics Author of Profit First
Here we go starting at number 10 the countdown begins.
Most overnight success takes 15 to 20 years to achieve. If you go in expecting to be rich overnight, you may become discouraged early on and give up on your dream prematurely. Know that success takes time. Takes perseverance and takes a little bit of luck. Give your business the time to grow. Only if your company is stagnant for a long time, should you take it as an indication to try something new.
Even if you have the latest, greatest, never-been-done-before approach to something, don’t assume you have no competition. Competition is more than just the direct, obvious competitors. Competition is also all the available alternative. What else could the consumer do instead of using your product or service? Could they do nothing?!? The customer almost always has the option of walking away; and that is a serious competitive threat.
The success of your company is contingent on you being a strong, effective leader. This does not mean you need to be an authoritarian, and this does not mean you are everyone’s buddy either. A great leader sets the course for the company, communicates it constantly and inspires the team to get there.
If you are struggling your company’s strategy and the best way to inspire your team to execute with precision. You can have a listen to episode 156 – How to get results from Strategic Planning We have included a link to Gazelles one page strategic plan worksheet on our show notes page. Plus, I am personally offering a 30 minute free coaching session to provide some professional tips. Please send us a message on our Facebook page Inspiring Greatness, or alternatively you can also email Shelley@maxumcorp.com.au
Many entrepreneurs put their personal lives on hold to focus exclusively on their business. Ultimately both suffer. No questions your business needs your full attention and effort, but only in short spurts. Just like a peak athlete, in addition to cranking up for game time, you need to have a proper healthy diet, get enough rest, and take breaks. Balance your personal and business life and you will actually do better in both.
If all business plans came true, being a billionaire would be nothing extraordinary. Many entrepreneurs go into a new venture planning astronomical return. Yet, most never even get the business off the ground. Unrealistic goals not only hurt your credibility, but can also be an emotional drain. Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Accountability, Realistic, and Time specific goals to ensure continual progress; chances of being an overnight success (Albeit in 15 to 20 years) are much greater.
There is a reason why employees leave high paying corporate jobs to go to start ups, and it sure ain’t for the money. People are driven to serve an important purpose, in addition to bringing home enough bacon to feed the family. Many businesses never define their real purpose for existence and continually attract a mix of employees who are seeking success in different ways. Clarify the purpose of your company, beyond just making money, and you set the stage for attracting likeminded employees. A team focused on the same goal is very powerful force.
I relate to mistake # 5 as not know your why – What is your reason for putting in the extra hours each day, what gets you out of bed every morning when you are having tough times in your business? What is your Vision ??? If you are struggling with that I have a Free VISION worksheet on our show notes page.
Often, the first thing entrepreneurs’ resort to when business is though is to try differentiating on price. Cheaper prices mean more customers, right? WRONG! Most customers are willing to buy more expensive items because of the greater quality or he better convenience. During though times often an increase in price, coupled with improvements in quality or convenience can bring the customers in droves. Price slashing is a dangerous game. At some point have to slash yourself to keep costs down.
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You never know where, when or how a new prospect is going to hear of your business. If you have a mix of messages out there, the prospects will have an unclear expectation of what you offer. Your company must be presenting a consistent clear message on all fronts. You will never get a second chance to make a first impression. Make sure every opportunity a new prospect will get to se your business for the first time, sends the same consistent message.
The days of cover ups, died out with Bill Clinton’s denial of sexual relations with Monica. The anonymous nature and grand size of the internet allows someone in the know to share anything with anyone at any time. If your business tries to cover up a mistake, it is just a matter of time before the work leaks and you are labeled a liar. That’s not good for business. Be the one to break your own bad news, y oust may be perceived as honest and trustworthy.
The greatest mistake entrepreneurs make is to believe they can do it al by themselves. While an entrepreneur can do most things, they do most things poorly. Just like any other person, an entrepreneur has one or two God given talents. As an entrepreneur it is your job to identify what you are the great and do those few things to your fullest. Surround yourself with people who are strong where you are not. Great companies are built on the foundation of exploiting a few strengths, not on trying to be masters of everything.
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