Growing Your Business

[Pastor Karen M. Presley]

There’s more to growing a business than just watching and hoping customers to come in your door. You must always plan ahead, and prepare yourself for the challenges that a growing business will face in this changing world.  I started my business in my mother’s basement and did not think of growing the business; business just kept coming.  One day I had a dry spell and did not understand why.  This person made a statement to me that impacted my life.  He said, “Karen, you are always working in your business, but you never work on your business.”

What an eye opener.  I always had work, so I never thought about doing things that would keep people coming to my door.  I’m glad I learned this lesson before I moved into my storefront.  Let’s talk about working on your business in order to grow the business.

Target other markets.  Use your imagination to determine what other markets could use your product.  We have to be creative and get pass the window of people that we know.

Branding your business.  Your material is speaking on your behalf before you ever get the appointment.  Invest in your marketing material as you target other markets.  Brand your company as a professional business.

Social Media.  Today many people search the internet like waking up and brushing their teeth.  So many people will look to different social sites to find what they need.  It is a great way to offer special discounts and keep people in the loop of what your business is doing.  The more you post to FB, blogs, LinkedIn, and Twitter, the more exposure opportunities you give yourself.

Internet Presence. Very often, customers discover a business through an online search engine. Be sure that your business has an online presence in order to maximize your exposure.

Stay Competitive w/ Technology.  As a business owner, it is vital that you understand new technologies. Technology can help increase business efficiency and even expand operations. Depending on your business will determine what you need; but everyone needs accounting software.  I use Quickbooks because it manages all financials and keeps me effective.  Eblast software to manage your database of existing and potential clients.

Offer Specials.  This is a sure way to let your clients know that you appreciate their business and value them as a customer.  Offer your product or service, don’t give it away, but be creative while promoting so you can still make a profit although the customer benefited too.

Expand Your Service.  In 2003 I started my business as a graphic designer.  When I moved into my store location in 2005, I became a printing company that expanded to self-publishing and websites.  I also offer Fax, Copy and NOTARY services as well as T-shirts and Wedding Invitation.  These are different streams of income.  Never put all your eggs in one basket.

Let Anointed Press Graphics, Inc., assist you with your marketing materials.  Give us a call today. 301.782.2285 or go to: www.anointedpressgraphics.com

Need a business coach or someone to help guide you in developing business strategies?  Give me call 301.782.2285 or go to:  www.karenpresley.org

Need a website?  We can help with that too.  www.anointedpressweb.com