Staying in business for the long term

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 by Laura Colar
Sometimes I am completely overwhelmed by the constant deluge of information flowing at us from all directions. I think it's fantastic that we live in a time where literally any question can be answered by clicking in the Google search box and that we so readily share information with each other. Tips, tricks, trends, criticism and advice are being conceived, developed and published every minute. How do you sort through all the information and adopt quality strategies?

Willa Plank of the Wall Street Journal asserts you do so by following trends, not fads. Her three key reflections are below:

1. Listen to customers, and make minor tweaks, not major alterations.

2. Try new technology on for size.

3. Consult in-the-know colleagues.

These may not be what one would call revelations but they do insert some pragmatism in an age where we can easily get caught up in the excitement of a new fad or tool we see being used (the 'everyone's doing it' syndrome).

Listening to customers is necessary, but subtly incorporate their suggestions in your marketing plan or business strategy by adding a new tactic. Don't rework the entire thing.

Technology is the great equalizer for many companies. Pull out your old technology architecture and identify areas where you can upgrade or try something new (SaaS anyone?)

Get in touch with those who have gone before. Speaking with strategy consultants or management consultants (Indianapolis business consultants to be exact). They've often launched or led their own operations and enjoy helping others do the same.

After all, following fads can lead to some bad things.

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