They go for customers first and foremost.

Cash flow is critical for a business to flourish. Without cash, there is stress and frustration.  It is more important to create a consistent flow of green rather than attempt to raise it via a 3^rd party.  Don’t rely on the idea that investors will bail you out.

Cut back on paperwork.

Business plans are fine, but do not guarantee income.  The MBA theory that you need a 150 page business plan is just that.  It is simply a theory.  Create a one page laser focused plan and start finding immediate ways to sell.

Simplify tasks that do not create income.

Automate bill paying, for example.  Set up folders in your computer to store files rather than let them pile up on your desk. Spend money to delegate if it makes you more productive.

Don’t eat the elephant in one chunk.

Take it in steps.  If you set goals that are clearly unreachable, you will constantly be disappointed.  You may have a million dollar idea, but if you are looking at the big picture instead working in sequence, you will become overwhelmed and paralyzed.

Allow yourself to receive help when it is needed.

Often, as entrepreneurs, we try to do everything ourselves, even if we have no clue how to go about it.  One millionaire I know once said that she started making money when she finally allowed herself to ask for help.  Seek people who know things you do not and pick their brains.

Cut your overhead.

Are you putting out more than you are bringing in?   Many expenses are not necessary.  Ask yourself:  Do I need this or do I just want this?  A fancy designer office does not bring in income.  Selling your product does.  Work from home.  Take the bus.  Make your own coffee.  Often entrepreneurs appear to be successful but are actually broke from overindulging in unnecessary purchases.

Don’t embezzle your business.

Keep your business and your personal income and expenses separate.  When you bankrupt your business you are doomed to fail.

Be wary of hype.

There are thousands of business opportunities out there. Some are legitimate and some are clearly scams.  Even legitimate operations are cash eaters.  What is your profit margin?  Can you promote the same product as an affiliate, which is free, or are you spending money to make money, like you might in certain network marketing companies?  Do you believe in your product and are you passionate about it?  Does it have a viable market?

Keep blinders on for naysayers.

A job will never make you more profit than a business.  It may take longer to see success, but if you stick it out, and do not become discouraged, it will pay off.

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What happens is, they ramble on and on about facts, figures, benefits, their background, tell stories, etc. Sometimes the other person has to jump in to get a word in edgewise.  Ever play jump rope? Then, the other person goes through the exact same routine. Both walk away empty handed.  It’s important to know, specifically, what you are looking for, to move your business to the next level.  Think about it. What 2-3 things do you need IMMEDIATELY, for your business to grow?  

For some business owners, their immediate need is more customers. They must be clear on what specific type of customer they are looking for.  For example, a skin care salesperson, could easily say, "I am looking for people who have skin."  Everyone has skin, but who would actually use the product?  Chances are, a bum on skid row wouldn’t have much of use for it.  A 45 year old professional woman with wrinkles might though.  Business owners with start up companies, often get excited, and want to put up a website, but don’t have a retail strategy in place.  Rather than put the cart before the horse, they would best be advised to seek a marketing strategist, a lawyer or other expert. Ask and you shall receive.

Think CLEAR, CONCISE, POSITIVE and QUICK.  In as little as 15 seconds get your point across.

I’m _________ with ___________

We help ______________(what problem do you solve)

What I’m looking for next is _________________________

Who do you know? 

Be respectful of other people’s time.

At the end of my weekly event, we do a business coaching circle.  Each person in the circle gets a chance to tell the others who they are, what they do, and what they are looking for next.  It could be getting late, there are still several people left, and one person starts talking and talking and talking and talking and talking.  We break in and ask, "What are you looking for next?"

The problem is, often, they don’t know.  So, they’ll begin talking and talking and talking some more.  NEXT!!!!

Life is short.  Quit rambling and being vague.  I’ve seen it online as well, in videos. You click, Blah, blah, blah, repeat, blah, blah, blah, repeat  ZZZZZZZ!  Sometimes I think people just enjoy hearing themselves talk. Remember CLEAR, CONCISE, POSITVE and QUICK.  It works.

If this post resonates with you, feel free to tweet, share and comment.  Also, I’ve just installed Google Friend Connect and it’s looking very blank.  Your face would be appreciated.  It’s on the right sidebar.

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