I just did yesterday, and it came just in time too! Business slowed down a bit for us this month after we have steadily increased sales and profits over the last several months. We were gaining great momentum. And then, bam, it slowed down, and I knew in my gut I had to re-think things.

I Went Back to Business Basics

I went back to doing some market research, and seeing what other similar businesses were experiencing and what they were doing. I ended up tweaking my PPC campaigns; adjusting and reapplying my SEO; adjusting my website and blog design and flow; adjusting my sales process; adjusting how people “landed” in my business; adjusting my social network approach; and understanding more about what my best type of customer were experiencing in this recession and where they need help.

The “Ah-Ha!” Moment

What a makeover, huh? The good news, after three weeks of research and changing strategies, I implemented it last night and bam, quality business is already flowing today. Ah-Ha! I realized I need to do this more often to make sure things stay on track, and I adjust with the market. Practice what you preach, Frank, I hear my self saying!

Have You Had an “Ah-Ha!” Moment This Month?

If you haven’t you probably need to get back to basics like I did.

§  Reacquaint yourself with your customers and markets. Have their needs changed? What direction is your market moving?

§  Are there new markets arising you can tap into?

§  Look into your sales and marketing process. Is it still working for today’s business climate?

§  What’s the ROI for your current advertising campaigns?

§  Get in touch with your business mentors and fellow business owners. Ask them how business is going for them. You will be surprised by the quality of solutions you can find when conversing and brainstorming with a fellow business person (and it helps them too).

§  Go online and see how other competitors and related businesses are approaching the business climate and markets. You’ll pick up some great insights. Read their blogs and subscribe to their newsletters.

§  Do you need objective advice? Do you need an objective assessment of your business? You may want to consider hiring a Business Consultant ^[1] to help.

§  Determine where your business is going. Do you like the direction? Do you need to make changes to your Strategic Plan ^[2]?

To Be Successful You Need At Least One Big “Ah-Ha!” Moment a Month

Don’t get too busy working “in” your business. Remember to apply yourself and your team monthly toward working “on” your business. The distinction is huge. Stay connected with your customers, prospects and markets. They will tell you where you need to go Strategically. Then just figure out how to do it and adjust. Do it monthly!

Today’s Video is on Decision Making, Strategic Planning and Opportunities

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