Last month I shared that “networking” is much more than just going to networking groups to “get business.” Networking is “the process of building relationships with the mutual desire and intent to connect to others.”

It’s 2008 and you have resolved to do better in your business this year. Right? Good, because after reading this article, you will want to add something else to your list of New Year’s Resolutions.

Wouldn’t it be great if you were constantly busy, whatever the state of the economy and regardless of the time of year? Wouldn’t it be nice if you were having record sales while most others in your industry are having the worst sales?

A big mistake cleaners make is not realizing that people clean for more reasons than “appearance.” And even if you realize it, you probably aren’t using that knowledge to your full advantage.

Most small businesses in America don’t work. Most small-business owners end up with an average every day job rather than the thriving, exciting enterprise they envisioned. The reason that most small businesses don’t grow is because of what I call F.T.I. or “Failure To Implement.” 

Adding a second truck? Congratulations…I think. Kudos to the fact that you have enough business (you do, right?) to add another truck. But I’m concerned you may end up like many cleaners who have tried to expand and failed.

Whether you advertise or not, changing the copy you already use in your sales and marketing will get you more sales.

Every day small businesses are suffering a “silent kiss of death” because of one simple thing: The way their telephone is answered.

Last month I shared how not marketing to your existing clients is the biggest marketing mistake of all (other than doing absolutely nothing, of course).

The biggest marketing mistake of all is not marketing to your existing clients. Not staying in front of those who have already spent money with you, paid your price and who are the most likely to refer is the dumbest marketing mistake a carpet cleaner can make.