A cult classic from the 90s was Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead. The main character, Sue Ellen, a teenager played by Christina Applegate landed a job as a high-ranking employee at an apparel company. (ok, totally unrealistic) Nevertheless, there are lessons about how to succeed throughout the movie.
Sue Ellen finds herself in over her head but soon learns to say, “I’m right on top of that Rose!”, and then go figure out the answer. Sue Ellen made herself an asset because she was easy to work with. That’s how we can stand out as a small business.
Running a small business comes with challenges, but one aspect that can significantly impact your success is how easy you are to work with. Cultivating positive relationships with customers, employees, and partners can make a world of difference. Here are some simple yet effective tips on being easy to work with as a small business owner.
Clear Communication: Transparency and clarity in communication build trust. Make sure to articulate your ideas, expectations, and plans clearly. Misunderstandings often arise from vague communication, so strive to be concise and to the point.
Listen and Value Input: A good leader knows the importance of listening. Encourage open dialogue and be receptive to feedback from your team and customers. Valuing others’ input fosters a collaborative environment and can lead to innovative solutions.
Be Adaptable: In the ever-changing landscape of business, adaptability is a valuable trait. Be open to new ideas, technologies, and market trends. A flexible approach can help your business stay relevant and responsive to evolving needs.
Set Realistic Expectations: Manage expectations by setting realistic goals and deadlines. This not only avoids disappointments but also allows for smoother workflow and better planning. Strive to underpromise and overdeliver.
Prioritize Customer Service: Customers are the backbone of any business. Providing excellent customer service should be a top priority. Respond promptly to inquiries, address concerns with empathy, and go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
Cultivate a Positive Work Environment: A positive work environment contributes to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. Foster a culture of honor, appreciation, and collaboration within your team. Happy employees are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
Honor Commitments: Reliability is crucial in business relationships. Honor your commitments, whether they involve delivering products on time or meeting project milestones. Consistency builds trust and credibility.
Embrace Technology Wisely: Leverage technology to streamline processes and enhance efficiency behind the scenes. Whether it’s using project management tools like Asana or Trello, communication apps like Telegram, Slack, or Signal, or automation with a variety of apps, integrating technology can make tasks more manageable for both you and your team.
Seek Continuous Improvement: The business world is dynamic, and continuous improvement is necessary for growth. Regularly evaluate your processes, learn from experiences, and implement changes to improve outcomes. This demonstrates your commitment to excellence.
Maintain a Positive Attitude: A positive attitude is contagious. Even in challenging times, maintaining optimism and a can-do spirit can inspire those around you. It sets the tone for a resilient and forward-thinking business.
In conclusion, being easy to work with involves a combination of effective communication, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to fostering positive relationships. By following these principles, you not only enhance your small business’s reputation but also create an environment that attracts and retains loyal customers and dedicated employees.