What advice would you give to your 11 year old self? I’ve been watching a group of successful people do just that.
We’ve been in business 20 years, which got me thinking what advice would I give to myself if I were starting out again, knowing what I now know.
What mistakes would I avoid? What would I do instead?
The first is be very clear on your message. The problems you solve. While we have lots of expertise, pick one thing and stick with it. You can’t be a jack of all trades as you end up being the master of none.
The second is narrow do who you work with. Inch wide, mile deep.
We’ve worked with over 50 completely different industries in our time, and while this allows us to bring invaluable experience to our clients, I wouldn’t start here.
By picking one industry you develop a reputation where members feel you understand them and their issues. Which takes away that, “my industry is different”.
Become really good at marketing, prospecting and selling.
Remember, nothing happens until someone pays you to solve their issues.
Being an expert in the wilderness is not a recipe for success.
So engage mentors and coaches early on. Drill and skill.
Action always beats waiting for the phone to ring.
And finally, believe in yourself and what you offer your market.
The first sale is always to yourself. You have to be very clear as to why someone should buy from you and the outcomes they’ll achieve. And you must believe, really believe you can help.
Then you can go out with conviction and sell knowing you can deliver the goods.
So if you’re in business, tell me what advice you’d give your younger self in the comments below.
Till next time, this is Rashid Kotwal.
