Survive & Thrive Tips for Business in 2015

SURVIVE & THRIVE TIPS for BUSINESS IN 2015

2Phase3 Business Solutions

As we near the end of another economically and technologically robust year for the general business community we should always remind ourselves of the general and basic attributes which a business owner must carry into any business situation.

Yes the world is moving at a rapid pace. Technology changes daily and with that stress levels for businesses attempting to keep abreast of changes and understand how these changes are relevant to their business. New apps, devices, and solutions flood the digital market enough to confuse the 'geek' in any of us. What often becomes lost in the wired world is the basic and simple genesis of business.

To provide something of use and need to someone else. If there is no use or need - there is no business.

So here are our 5 Survive & Thrive Tips for 2015. Nothing fancy, nothing you need to plug into, nothing that will confuse.

Simply a time to take a seat, enjoy a bit of downtime away from all the noise and contemplate the very base of business.

Enjoy and All the Best in 2015 from the consultants and advisors at 2Phase3.


"A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts."– Richard Branson




1) Provide Leadership.

* Leadership drives business. It generates creative use of the internal knowledge that exists in your employees. It allows for efficiencies to be derived from sources you may not otherwise expect. It gives direction and sets a path for growth.

It has purpose.

Keep open to ideas, keep open to listening - actively listening and if you currently hold tight on the reins of your business, in 2015, try to loosen the grip a bit this year - the results may surprise you and drive your business into areas unknown in the past.


2) Listen to Your Employees (we mean ..REALLY listen..!)

* Stemming from strong and effective leadership is listening to your employees. A leaders knows what they do not know. A leader shows confidence in themselves through the acts of their employees. A leader doe not have the answers but seeks possibilities.

Your employees and advisors, the team that surrounds your business have a voice - learn to actively and openly listen. Find and look for the good and positive qualities in your employees. They all have something to contribute- look for the positive- reward the positive and they will help you grow your business.


3) Step out of Your Comfort Zone

* Complacency occurs when we become comfortable in the day to day. Makes our daily lives easy. And boring. Not progressive. Ineffective at times. Not challenging.

And this will reflect in your business. In your staff. To your customers.

Take a path in 2015 to step out of the zone you may have been inside and take a new path. A small pivot. Even the smallest change to you personally and or your business may bring more confidence, new ideas and open skies previously clouded in the day to day.

4) Are You Passionate About all This?

* Complacency often is a result of not being truly 'jazzed' with what you are doing. This is YOUR business, if passion does not exist, your customers won't either. It is that simple. Be passionate about the business, passionate about learning, change, the thrill of driving, the drive for success , of providing a true need. Customers see through you. If you are not passionate about your business, as a leader, don't expect your employees to be, nor your customers.

Long term success and growth requires drive and vision which can only come from a true passion for what you are providing as a business.

5) Keep Learning - Take Advice

* Business strategists such as the consultants at 2Phase3 bring practical, hands on expertise having started and grown their own independent businesses over the last 25 years. We are continually learning, adapting and moving business models following the steps provided herein.

As our quote from Richard Branson above (yes we like Branson's business character, approach, and jazz - a true definition of an entrepreneur!) states business must be involving, fun and trusts the business person's creative instincts.

This sums up much of what we have outlined. Involving, passionate, always adapting and learning, keeping it fun, showing leadership and trust in one;s instincts, but also heeding advice from those you can trust.

Strive for success, continue to listen, learn, adapt, change and above all else, enjoy what you are doing.

As Canadians we take our hockey seriously. A great leader by showing by example and with purpose, while always learning, creating adapting and having fun while doing so is Wayne Gretzky.


"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take"
-Wayne Gretzky

In 2015…take a shot.

2Phase3 copyright-2015

2Phase3 Business Solutions provide strategic direction and avenues for business growth through effective  digital  marketing, e-commerce and creative business planning.

Located in Canada, they enjoy strategies and opportunities that get them away from the Arctic air by also providing expertise in International Economic Development. 

Playing with Creative Change

PLAYING WITH CREATIVE CHANGE

Too often we see business owners working with what “already is”. Keep on doing much of the same. If it ain’t broke- don’t break it.

The norm is comfortable. Complacency is easy. Business and life is good. (?)

As consultants to SMEs we witness business owners falling into the well of doing what has worked in the past.  A business owner’s baby refusing to grow, with an owner too stubborn to change. As the well becomes ever so slippery and deep that grasping at the edges is an exercise of desperation –too little too late – owners see their dreams evaporate and their business quickly evaporating.

Business, and success within, does not have to be overly complicated (which owners tend to do), nor does it always require vast amounts of capital to move ahead.  Yet we witness time and again owners who try and do it all- are reluctant to allow others to help, advise, take the reins, and who then struggle with their ultimate incompetence in various areas of business operations and management only to say – “We tried, but failed”.

Really?

So aside from the entrepreneur’s dilemma of often thinking and believing (self righteously) they are the only ones who know the direction and path of their business- is the notion that thinking about, focusing on, driving …”change” can bring renewed vision, and sustainable growth to a languishing business.

Creative change.

Amazing how effective a new way of doing things, and active creative thinking can bring a business into a new level, or phase. Its “phase3” if you will. So how can one bring about change?

An exercise that may help is to begin by “thinking right.” Flexible, fluid thinking that looks at an object and lists alternative uses regardless of the possibility, the outcome, and the “it would never work” syndrome. Take a toothbrush.  Aside from oral hygiene and scrubbing tile grout, what other uses, no matter how wild or off the wall can one envision the use of a toothbrush?

A tire, pen, piece of string….anything really. In the pace of today’s connected world we often lack the time to award ourselves the freedom to simply…think. Differently without barriers. It is an area where creative change can thrive; in fact it is what is required to survive. By listing, and brainstorming alternative uses away from the obvious or norm one can begin to train and exercise thinking flexibility. Improvisation and intuitive thinking all forces change to the norm.

So, if you see your business in that stagnant, old and tired mold, try giving yourself the time and freedom to begin to force creative change into your daily life – or at least your business life.  

Once we can begin to train our thinking to become more flexible, and more creative we can then begin to help a business move 2Phase3.

And as quoted by Sir Richard Branson…”If it ain’t broke…break it!”

2Phase3 - Retailoring Required Rapidly

THE CONCEPT OF OUR “RETAILORING”

“Retailoring” – With the increasing influx of e-commerce into the retail landscape, modern day retailing has become more competitive, more immediate and certainly more challenging to operate, sustain and grow than in any time in our past. Our retailers have the world at their door; expanded markets mean greater exposure, expansive sales channels, and competitive distribution models. It has also created stiff competition from competitors who are faceless yet very often fearless. Even for those retailers with little or no online presence, one can be certain a competitor is targeting their customers.

How can store front merchants become proactive to now develop a business that thrives and grows in a “Main Street” environment while developing a strong, impactful online presence and open their markets to not only the Ottawa consumer but to consumers regardless of location?  How can one change a physical retail location and appearance to influence  customers to stay longer and to buy more? How does a retailer benefit from the traffic and consumer behaviours that are being sought after with the help of their local BIA? In retail neighbourhoods, the right retailoring blend can produce immediate and sustainable results. Influential customer centric staging in retail contributes to increased traffic flow and a more engaged client base; one that is more readily positioned to be retained as a long term customer.  More customers, increased sales and an interesting, engaging atmosphere for employees will further develop a merchant district that delivers customer excellence from the store floor to the street and into the online world.

A mindset change. Engage, acquire, retain. Service is more than a smile. Smarter environments - savvy consumers. Store floor to world stage. Movement – non static. Progressive – Proactive - Profitable

This is our retailoring.

In need of some assistance? Looking at how you are to survive let alone thrive in today's marketplace...?

Connect With Us

www.2phase3.com 

Free Consultation Services to Hub Ottawa Members

2Phase3 Free Consultations at Hub Ottawa Begins in January 2014

2Phase3 will begin offering free consultations on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at Hub Ottawa beginning January 15th.

Take advantage over of consultation expertise and advisory services as we provide over 50 years of combined expertise as business owners - entrepreneurs.

Our philosophy is fairly simple. If you are starting or trying to grow your business- you cannot do it alone- in isolation and without neutral third party advice and mentoring. We have seen this time and again where entrepreneurs think too small- and never drive for the big picture - goals are scattered and implemented in a shotgun approach- and within a year or two- the mission is over.

And often - they do this on their own- or within their small team.

We say - look beyond - think in a positive manner and work with others who have nothing but your best interest at heart.

We are passionate entrepreneurs and consultants (yes they do exist!) and have been at the grass roots many times and survived to tell the tales. Now we wish to work with you in your venture and help drive a positive experience into a successful long term business.

Give us a shout at solutions@2phase3.com or drop by Hub Ottawa on the third Wednesday of each month and ask for us.

Carole & Micheal

Local LED lighting company shines thanks to 2Phase3

2Phase3’s mission is to share our expertise and know how to inspire business owners so their business will grow and succeed into the 3^rd phase of their business cycle. We love what we do and mostly love it when our clients succeed.

That is why for us at 2Phase3, there is nothing quite as satisfying as seeing a client win a prestigious  business award. Knowing your client is grateful is nice. Seeing their (aka: your) business development initiatives generate results is wonderful. Seeing your client grow into their role as entrepreneurs is also extremely satisfying.

But having an external entity like a chamber of commerce or reputable business publication recognize a company that 2Phase3 has mentored is… you guessed it, priceless. 

That is precisely what happened for 2Phase3 recently. One of our local Ottawa clients, Rimikon Inc. a manufacturer of innovative LED products, was awarded the exceptional new business award by the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce and the Ottawa Business Journal. (Best Ottawa Business Awards)

After months of hard work by all, this recognition is proof that the light at the end of the tunnel wasn’t a train but indeed a light or in Rimikon’s case a Light Emitting Diode.

2Phase3 didn’t completely have to start from scratch since the owners (two brothers) are already entrepreneurs albeit in a very different space. They have been involved essentially in the service industry operating their own business which they bootsrapped with the help of family.

Their business was successful but had never really required the formal steps that the average start-up has to go through especially one that involves manufacturing.

Formal business plans, sales forecasts, marketing plans and strategies, distribution channels, shipping strategies and most important: raising venture capital were things they had heard of but had never needed to do.

This is where 2Phase3 came in.
 

• We helped them adjust their thinking from one suited to the service industry to the product and manufacturing industry.
• We worked with the owners to create a financially viable and sustainable business model.
• We accompanied the owners through the due diligence process and helped them secure a first round of financing.
• We shared our expertise with them to solidify their procurement and distribution channels.
• We increased their visibility by facilitating several important public relations events.
• We prepared the owners for presentations to angel investors.
• We were there at every step to make sure the owners didn’t make the mistakes that are so common in the start-up process so they would get to a position of growth as soon as possible.

That is what 2Phase3 is passionate about, helping our clients succeed. We become an integral part of our clients’ management team. Because we’ve been there, we understand the intricacies of the start-up process and business development better than anyone. We work hands on in close collaboration with our clients with unparalleled dedication to establish a solid business foundation, ensure continued growth and ultimate and consistent success.

We are only successful when you are !

2Phase3 -Recipes for Small Business a Mother's Day Special..Part 1

2Phase3 Blog – May 2013

Some Recipes For Small Business....– a Mother's Day Special... Part 1 (part 2 on Father's Day...)

Far too often we hear of the stresses related to owning and operating a small business. For many, the mere word “entrepreneurship” causes them to shake and quiver.  For others the fear of potentially losing everything- while gaining nothing brings nightmares far worse than the thought of another Sly Stallone comeback movie.

It doesn’t have to be this way. In fact with some careful initial planning, advice, and an open-mind to change small business owners can learn to work through difficult times (which will occur to any business) and lessen the stressful days and endless nightmares.

A few tips…

1)   Before you being your business- actually seek out those who can help you form objective opinions as to what path (if any!) the business should follow.

At 2Phase3 we often find ourselves being contacted in the midst of a business meltdown or collapse where miracles are needed and are often difficult to find.  We wish the owners contacted months earlier! Hiring an outside team around your business to work with the owners as objective leaders and advisors will be money well spent. Think of the cost versus losing your home.

Easy decision. 

2)   Listen, listen..and listen some more.  Just because this is YOUR business and you have put in the time, energy, tears and money doesn’t mean it is the perfect business. We often see entrepreneurs lose a sense of reality as they are too close to the business situation to see the forest from the trees.

Our consultants often hear from business owners that this is the way things are going to be- that this is MY business, I have planned this so we must continue to go down this path…and so on.

Small business owners have pride in what they are selling. They should! But they must also open their minds to change and to hear from others that their idea is not realistic…no good..’sucks’. This is a hard pill to swallow but to overcome this rejection of ideas from neutral outside sources (again the hiring of consultants who have seen it all) is a significant step towards many restful nights of sleep…and a bit of peace of mind knowing you are not alone in this venture.

Lighting that customer “Spark” along the Sparks Street Mall -Ottawa Canada

2Phase3

Business Performance Solutions

www.2phase3.com

The Obvious “WOW” of Excellent Customer Service

Lighting that customer “Spark” along the Sparks Street Mall

It’s not just because we are heading quickly into the holiday season. It is not because, as business owners, we always look for that edge to keep customers coming back- the loyalty of each and every customer being the golden goose. It is not just because referral business is easy busy – and most lucrative. It is not because our staff – trained and eager to serve our clients to the 10th degree- feels and behaves as if they are owners too. And it is not just because your clients live and breathe to be treated like gold –and doing so will provide your business with numerous avenues to expand- to change- to drive the business into growth.

It is because “WOWING” your customers is one of the easiest –simplest- elements of your business that you can do- often at very little cost.

The oft quoted cliché “the customer is always right” doesn’t mean that as a business owner you are wrong. You can both be right. It is a matter of looking not just at the short term but at that long term customer relationship. This relationship will make customers return and go out of their way to shop at your store – to find and engage in you and your offerings no matter the circumstance.

So as we begin the holiday season- and look forward to a strong 2013 with a renewed ‘jazz’ on Sparks Street, here are some tips, tricks, commandments on developing an excellent customer service experience to each and every person who opens your front door.

1)      Listen. As business owners with a passion for what we do and offer begin each day by thinking that we are in business not for ourselves- but for our customers. They drive our thought process, our product offerings, - they are the demand to our supply – they pay our bills. Customers are changing. Their buying habits change with each passing year either for financial reasons, trends, anticipated trends – numerous reasons affect a buyer’s decision. As an owner you must be an effective and active listener. Ask questions, look at body language – they will tell and show you what they need and want. Now serve them.

2)      Anticipate Needs. As a Sparks Street business owner one must remember that your customer and future customers do not buy just products or services. They are buying solutions to certain problems; they buy on feelings – good feelings in fact. You already know that most customers buy on emotion rather than on logic or practicality. It is a fundamental element of consumer behaviour. We all do. One way to anticipate your customer’s needs is not only to listen but to regularly communicate and talk in an open friendly manner with your customers so you become aware and can anticipate their future needs. Ask them their name- call out their name- they are valued, treated with respect and care because you care. Be sincere, create good feelings as you may with someone walking into your home as your guest- they are your guests into your store – your business. Care about them- thank them at every chance. WOW!

3)      Yes. A simple word – a word your customer wishes to hear from you to help solve their problems and help you anticipate needs. Always find ways to say ‘yes’ in helping your customer. No is of course negative, No is saying I cannot help solve your problem- No is saying you will not likely come back to my store- No is long term. So take No out of your store and service mentality and work on Yes- as long as a request is reasonable tell and show your customer that Yes happens in my store- figure out how you are going to do it afterwards. They want a Yes from you. Deliver.

4)      Give More. Your business longevity relies on keeping customers happy- gaining new customers and growing. Giving your business that extra edge over competition is one method of ensuring growth and longevity. A happy customer is a returning customer – is a customer that will tell ten friends about you- they are your greatest ambassador, their loyalty is one ticket to your business growth. So think about what you are presently doing, offering, and consider what are giving to your customers that they cannot get anywhere else in Ottawa. What can you do to thank those who came to you but did not buy? (they have friends don’t they? – think about those). Social media spreads the good stemming from your store- think about those potential customers. What can you give your customers’ that is totally unexpected? Something that they will remember and come back. WOW!

5)      Feedback. Social media is now a fixture in consumer buying habits. We now look for feedback, encouragement, approval from our peers. Crowdsourcing (more about this in our next Sparks Street blog), helps develop a trusted long term relationship with your customer in ensured. Listen to your customers- they will often dictate what they need- and provide you with the concerns you must solve. With online media receiving feedback is easier and more accessible than ever. Check back with your customers – invite constructive criticism, ask them for suggestions, comments and then. Listen, anticipate, and say yes.

6)      Employees are Customers Too. Your employees are your eyes, ears to the marketplace and to your customer buying traits. Encourage feedback from them, ask them what they would do, how, why? Treat your employees just like you treat your valued customer who first steps into your store- your business. Respected employees will treat and hold your customers in high regard. A culture of customer service begins with you – the owner. Leading by example, being enthusiastic, courteous, smiling, thanking, enjoying the day, will often be mimicked by staff. Be service infectious!

Instilling these simple low cost (no cost?) tips into your Sparks Street business will go a long way in establishing the Sparks Street Mall into the place to go in Ottawa for exceptional customer service, and care. A place where customers know their solutions will be found, met and exceeded by the customer first culture of all merchants.

Copyright 2012.  2Phase3 Business Performance Solutions. www.2phase3.com