Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Here`s what I have collected and posted so far......

# 42  What you don`t know could kill you. 
# 41  Network with your peers. 
# 40  Don`t think you`re always the smartest person in the room.   
# 39  It will never happen unless you do it.
# 38  Passion is a must.
# 37  Be an executioner.  Ideas are worthless unless executed. 
# 36  When you are in a hole, stop digging.
# 35  Don`t waste words to sound smart.  It`s ok to say `I don`t know`, then get to work to find the answer.
# 34  Show up.  Don`t wait for an invitation.  Be proactive.  It shows your passion.
# 33  Celebrate.  Have quick wins.
# 32  You will make mistakes.  Fix them quickly.
# 31  Don`t follow the leader.

Am I missing crucial steps or lessons?  And yes, its a countdown.  What should be the number 1 tip or lesson?  I`m open to suggestions.

Well,

Yes I did make lots of minor mistakes...
Lesson Number
2. Don`t over promise and under deliver
3. Don`t be afraid to say no or it can be done but it`s going to cost you a little bit more than what I quoted you for.
4. You are your own boss, do not let the customer boss you like you work for him.
5. Set your standards and expectations from the begining.
6. Do not be afraid to give input or suggestions when the customer is in doubt, you are the professional.. you make the decision for them and explain to them why.

These were simple mistakes that can be avoided from the begining.
If you follow these 5 golden rules.. you should have any problems closing any deal or project.

I agree that networking is critical.  I think its a skill that people don`t recognize or know how to use.  We added a track in the workshops on how to network, with the goal being to move beyond the `elevator pitch` to the art of small talk and how best to present yourself, your idea and your company. 

I also like that you recognized mistakes will happen. 

Thanks!  I will incorporate these into the list.

Great list!  They hinge on action and you (the business owner/boss - the decision maker) taking an active role. It is easy to take a step back and let the customer drive the relationship.  We can forget at times that they came to us for the expertise/professional opinion/work/etc.  It needs to be a balanced relationship between the business and the customer.

Thanks!