The 10 Rules for Small Business Success

1. Target

They are not all things at all. Decide on your niche - narrow the field and broaden its appeal.

2. Be Different

If competitors are doing, do not. Stand out from a crowded market, where much of the advertising and products look the same.

3. Building a team

Do not hire an employee to fill a position. Hire a person to be part of a team to build your business.

4. Be fast

Time is the most valuable asset. When the delivery is expected Friday, appearing Thursday afternoon. Return calls and e-mail now.

5. Thanks

A lot. Tell your customers and employees that you appreciate them. Better yet, do it the old fashioned way: take a pen and paper and write them a note.

6. Be consistent

Make sure your business has a consistent look and feel. A customer should get the same flavor from everyone within the organization. Always.

7. Smile

Discard the reasons you think people buy from you like price, product quality or warranty. They buy because you like it.

8. Fanatical Optimism

The glass should always be half full. Attitude will always win out in the end and infect all those around you.

9. Soft Sell

You should never hard sell. Solve problems. Satisfy wants. Not what is really best for your client.

10. Leave Your Comfort Zone

Never accept the idea that this is the way you've always done. Never accept a new idea or technology would never work for you .......