No, I am not talking about George Carlin’s “Seven Words You Can’t Say on Television.” If you actually can repeat those seven words, you’ve been around as long as I have!
I am talking about words I’ve heard a time or two when visiting small-business owners: “We have never done it that way.”
It’s human nature to continue doing the things we believe will work rather than something that requires taking a risk ... or something suggested by a staff member, a fellow business owner or business advisor.
Why Should You Care?
The recession that began in 2008 changed everything. Business did not bounce back for many industries like it did in previous recessions. Combine this with the ever-increasing impact of new technologies, and those companies that resist trying new things to increase sales and operating efficiencies face a very difficult future.
Seven Words You Can Say
Instead of ignoring constructive suggestions, why not take the attitude: “Why don’t we give it a try?”
Whether it’s a new technology, a new service, a new operations procedure, new software or sales training, why not try a lot of things. Something may surprise you and stick. There are many business owners who are experiencing their best years ever, and they are of all sizes and with all types of capabilities. Many are having great success with products or services they never thought of offering before. Others have invested in major technology, or combinations of both make and buy.
So, how about joining me in removing the seven words you can’t say from your lexicon and putting in place the seven words you can say?
Let’s be willing to try a lot of things. Not necessarily taking big risks, but simply being open to moving in directions that will open new doors. Not only will it afford opportunities of new successes, it might just make you enjoy the business more ... and perhaps lead you to fall in love all over again with the great business you created.
Carl Gerhardt is a 30-year veteran of entrepreneurship and is retired Chairman of Alliance Franchise Brands. He is currently a consultant with FranNet a company that matches individuals wanting to own their own business with franchise opportunities. cgerhardt@frannet.com. Carl is also a volunteer with SCORE, offering free counseling for small-business entrepreneurs. www.score-reno.org
