Get down to business

Are you finding it tough to run your business? Well, remember the expression “when the going gets tough, the tough get going”. Don’t just sit there moaning and complaining and hoping that things will get better, just like that, at the click of a finger. No magic wand or abracadabra will get your business going unless you yourself roll up your sleeves and get down to business.

My experience in business coaching has taught me that it’s during tough times that you have to work harder. Think. Concentrate. What are you doing – or not doing – that is causing a slump in your work? Are you putting enough effort in your business, or are you just going along with the flow? Are you stuck in the Middle Ages, afraid to try anything new, afraid to get out of your comfort zone, afraid to let the world know you’re there? Yes, you get the picture now? Do you see where I’m heading? If you don’t , then you simply are not up with the times. I am hinting that if you are looking for business growth, then you have to get out there. Where? On the social networks! That’s where it’s at.

A strong presence on the social networks is indispensable for any business to survive or grow in today’s world. How are people to know  you, how are customers going to interact with you, how will other non-competitive businesses learn about you, unless you show your face on the social networks? I don’t mean just opening an account on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, Blogspot  or whatever and then tweedle your thumbs and wait for likes and comments to start pouring in.

 It won’t happen. If you want people to come to you, you need to go to them. It’s like you’re at a party. You don’t know anyone so you start going around introducing yourself, distributing your calling card, asking other people their names, their interests and just making small talk. This is the way to meet peope and build relationships. The same applies to social networking on the web.  Except that you’re doing it in writing or through pictures. Posting pictures, by the way, especially with a link, is the best way to drive traffic to your site. The most interesting pictures are the bright and colorful  ones and believe me they attract views, likes and comments. If they’re funny or thought-provoking they might even get shared.  Or go VIRAL!  Well,  don’t push your luck. Be grateful with whatever little you get. It’s better than getting criticism or nasty comments. Remember that when you put your face out there (on the web), you will get all kinds of reactions: positive, cool, no reaction at all or worse… negative. There are lots of haters out there so beware. My advice is to ignore them.

Going back to introducing yourself and socializing, make sure you GIVE BACK. I will never tire of saying this. Don’t just take. If someone gives you a like, go and like back; if someone makes a nice comment under your post, go and write a nice comment back. Don’t forget, it’s by giving that you receive. People will notice your courtesy and they’ll keep coming back. If you make a nice impression, your company, or brand will benefit and grow.