IS YOUR BUSINESS ON THE BALL?
So, the TV is tuned and the beer’s in the fridge. The football season is back so here’s a 10 point checklist to help you keep your business on the ball.
1. ANSWER THE PHONE – An unanswered phone is an own goal. Forward calls to your mobile, engage a 24/7 virtual PA or at worst, but an answering machine. Customers don’t call back, they call competitors.
2. WEAVE THE WEB – The internet can put your product or service on a level playing field with the biggest businesses. Invest in your website.
3. RSVP – Don’t let enquiries wait. Promise to respond quickly and do it. Just like football, the longer you keep the ball, the greater your chance of losing it. Pass back to your prospect promptly.
4. BANK ONLINE – Organise your finances online. Know who’s paid; know where you are; make paying bills easy. Less admin means more time on the field of business play.
5. STUDY FORM – You want your business to be a winner. Know why others succeed and copy good ideas. Study form and back a winner.
6. RESPECT THE REF – We don’t enjoy being policed by bureaucrats, but can’t avoid the need for some compliance. Don’t battle with bureaucracy, respect the ref and let others pick the fights.
7. PLAY TO THE CROWD – Generate positive PR and be popular.
8. FEED THE GRASS – You need healthy sward on which to play the game. Invest time in your business networks and community. It’ll improve the pitch on which you play your game.
9. WATCH THE OPPOSITION – Stay close to your rivals and watch their every step. Understand their tactics and adapt your own accordingly.
10. GET A COACH – There’s a free business tip posted every day at www.robertashton.co.uk Pop into the dressing room, log on and take a look!
© Robert Ashton 2006
www.robertashton.co.uk
