Starting and running a business is far from
straightforward. There will be times where you aren’t too sure what to do, but
you give it a go anyway, and it works. However, quite often, there will be
times where this isn’t the case. If you want to try and minimise the number of
things that could go wrong, you first need to know what those common mistakes
are so you can avoid them. Here is a list of the four most common mistakes to
avoid along the way.
Not setting clear goals
It is easy to enter into a business venture with the
goal of simply ‘being successful’. However, it is impossible to measure
progress in relation to this goal if you have not set out clear metrics. What
does success mean to you? Do you want to generate a specific amount of profit
within a specific amount of time? Do you want to service a certain number of
clients within a certain time period? Do you want to have moved into a larger
office by a certain time? Highlight these
goals
clearly from the get-go and constantly refer back to them whenever it is time
to assess your progress.
Choosing the wrong office space
Are you aware that there are many different types of
office spaces available to you? Along with small and large offices, there are
also leased offices, serviced offices, and co-working offices, each of which
have their own unique pros and cons.
If you are looking for a permanent office space and
you are 100% sure of the location in which you’ll be operating, conventional
offices could be your best bet. However, if you are in search of a more
flexible lease because your business is still new or because you are testing
out the waters in terms of location, then serviced offices might be the solution
for you.
If you want to limit costs and only pay for the space
that you need, then it may be worthwhile considering co-working offices.
Ultimately, if you’re in search of the best office
space London has to offer, be sure to get in touch with commercial property
experts who specialise in London offices, in particular. These
experts will also be able to advise you in terms of which type of office space
would best suit your business and its requirements.
Not using technology to your
advantage
In most instances, technology equals improved
productivity, and improved productivity often equals a more impressive bottom
line. While it is possible to perform the necessary tasks and duties within
your business manually, you can be almost certain that it is also possible to
either automate these tasks and duties, or to speed them up significantly, with
the help of the right technology. If you do not have much experience in this
realm, it is definitely worthwhile to consider meeting with an advisor who can
recommend solutions in line with your business and its offering.
Under-spending on marketing
The key to getting a good, solid start is to spend wisely with regard to all aspects of your business. However, one aspect that you definitely do not want to skimp on is that of marketing. Marketing is what will help to maximise your brand awareness, increase your following, and improve overall interest in your offering. Digital marketing is a great place to start as it allows for targeted advertising to fit in with your budget, whatever it may be. It also promises a greater reach, allowing you to advertise to a higher number of people who might be interested in ordering your products and services online. Public relations (PR) is another important component of marketing to consider. By reaching out to journalists and bloggers, you can gain valuable publicity for your business.
Avoid making these costly mistakes, and your business
will already be well on its way to achieving success and longevity.
