“Having a well stocked marketing arsenal of tactics doesn’t make you any more of a great marketer than having a tool belt makes you a great carpenter.” Bill Dolan, Spirit Media
Organically grown entrepreneurs* have the challenge of always being in some kind of learning curve. You know what I am talking about…you are doing things you’ve never been taught, you didn’t go to school to learn, and are looking for guidance from those who’ve done it or you are just figuring it out on your own. You know intuitively you have to do more than “dress the part” you have to know what you are doing and where you perform best.
*Organically grown entrepreneur: an owner or manager who runs a naturally grown business enterprise based on their vision, talents & strengths, who makes money through risk and initiative .
This path is full of leaders just like you and I hoping to learn from each other to avoid pitfalls, inspire action and ultimately realize our vision. Each of us has wisdom to bring to the table.
Here are the top 10 things that have made the biggest difference in the journeys of those I coach, including myself.
Relationship Building Musts:
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Never stop building a qualified list of prospect, partners & opportunities.
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Automate & systematize a method you can personalize to keep in touch with your clients, qualified prospects & partners.
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Keep your finger on the pulse of the world and its effects on you and your customers. Know what matters to them at all times.
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Get out of your own backyard. Network with peers from other areas, states, or countries. Expose yourself to fresh ways of thinking. This can be a game changer!
Invest in your Vision:
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Assemble an effective implementation team. The DIY mindset will cost you.
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Assess your revenue model and invest in technology, education, or coaching to help you create sustainable sales and consistent delivery of your sweet spot.
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Invest in YOU! Make personal mastery your goal. The better you understand yourself, the more effectively you can lead your company and others.
Mindsets that Matter:
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Think beyond your salary. If you started a business to make yourself an income you will struggle. If you have a mindset to build a business enterprise offering a valuable service that impacts others lives you will accelerate your growth. (Hint: this applies whether you own the business or not. See yourself building a portfolio or organization and you will sub-consciously present yourself more powerfully.)
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Network up! “Your income will average the 5 people with whom you associate most.” Jim Rohn
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Never quit. If you decide to close your doors and do something else, you will make the best business decision and take all that experience with you. If you take a measurement today and determine you are not where you want to be, make intelligent informed changes.
The greatest marketers discover how to authentically and ethically increase their visibility, build credibility, and create opportunities with those who derive the highest value exchange from their services. The best thing an organic (or naturally grown) entrepreneur can do is to associate with others who understand this path.
Keep the faith in the journey!
Please add your insights too…I’d love to hear your personal success factors.