Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending the online webinar hosted by Network Solutions. The Grow Smart Business Webinar, hosted by Roy Dunbar, featured small business owners: Surfy Rahman, owner of Indique Restaurant; Kelly Muccio, owner of Lost Boys fashion store; Kristina Bouwiri, owner of Reston Limo; Anita Campbell, owner of Small Business Trends; and Tom Heath, a correspondent with the Washington Post.
Roy started off the discussion by talking how small businesses are one of the largest employers in the country. He noted that 69% of small businesses reported making a profit in 2008 while the rest reported breaking even. What a positive stat during this tough economy. Roy also identified 6 key factors that small businesses need in order to grow them smarter:
1. Access to Financing
2. Marketing and Innovation
3. Workforce and Human Resources
4. Customer Service
5. Technical and IT Infrastructure
6. Compliance and Legal Issues
The panelists shared their stories of how they started and grew their businesses to where they are today. But, the main theme was that they all utilized the 6 key factors as a formula for success. They agreed that by offering great customer service, not being afraid to take risks, utilizing social media to network and interact with customers, and trusting instincts continue to work for them.
The webinar is still available on their website: http://www.mogulus.com/networksolutions
How will you grow your small business smarter?