Sometimes business can be slow, and there is often a reason behind it. Unfortunately, some business owners choose to blame other people or situations instead of figuring out why their business is failing. Below are some common excuses people use when business is bad and how to avoid them.
“The Economy is Bad.”
Sure, the economy does have an effect on local and small businesses, but it isn’t as bad as people may think. If anything, support for small businesses has grown in recent years. The key to making sure your business does well in the economy is to over prepare and fight for it to survive. This might mean cutting staff, working extra hours, or finding ways to use free marketing tools like social media.
“I Don’t Have Time To Improve”
Have you ever heard the “no time” excuse? A business owner who says they don’t have a chance to improve might as well say they aren’t concerned with their customers’ needs. Running a business is always about evolving, changing, and doing what works best for your customers or clients.
It’s common to have little time as a business owner. However, instead of trying to do everything at once, try a few other methods. For example, the best business owners and entrepreneurs find time to improve or outsource certain improvements or tasks to those who are well qualified to get it done.
“I Have Too Much Competition”
In today’s digital world, there is an infinite amount of customers and clients you can reach. Offering a valuable service may have some competition, but it shouldn’t be enough to put you out of business.
Keeping current clients and customers happy will mean more business and referrals for you, so worrying about competition shouldn’t even be a concern if you do your job well. If there does seem to be a few businesses in your niche who offer similar services or products as you do, show what sets you apart. Competition shouldn’t mean you can’t improve and keep people happy. In fact, if anything, it should keep you motivated.
“I Don’t Have Money To Improve”
While doing a complete overhaul of your business might be expensive, there are plenty of things you can do that won’t break the bank. For example, maybe your customers have wanted you to stay open a little later. If so, perhaps you can stay late yourself instead of hiring your staff to do it. After all, offering extended hours could bring in more revenue and keep them happy.
“The Internet Took My Customers”
The Internet has changed the way businesses are run, but that doesn’t mean that the Internet replaces the connection and family like a feeling of a small business.
Instead of blaming the Internet for causing revenue loss, embrace it instead. Put your business online, start a few social media profiles to connect with your audience, and have a rating system so you can learn about ways to improve your business! The Internet should never be used as an excuse; it should always be an asset.
Of course, these are the five most common excuses that people use when business is bad, but there are more. Either way, when you’re a business owner, it’s best to avoid excuses and take action especially when things are a little slower than you’d like.
