Credit: jscreationzs, freedigitalphotos.net
Credit: jscreationzs, freedigitalphotos.net

Sometimes, growing your business can be more stressful than raising teenagers. So it’s important to make sure you have a strategy and some fun along the way.

Here are some insights to keep going on a sane journey toward growth.

1. Take care of your people. Hire only the best talent. (For tips on how to do that, see this story, “Secrets of Growth: How to Hire the Best.“) Pay them, stretch them, take care of them and then let them execute. Remember, you’re only as good as your people. Make sure you show them appreciation and recognize their achievements.

2. Under-promise and over-deliver. I know that it is really a bit of a cliché, but one thing I also know is that clichés become clichés for a reason – they are usually true! Make sure you are able to honor your commitments…and when you surpass expectations, all the better.

3. Be visible and connected. Some business win referrals by building brand equity in their communities. Whether it is sponsoring a high school team, a local food bank or the symphony, that generosity usually creates goodwill. Not only are you giving back, but it’s your business that people will remember and refer.

4. Be the BEST at what you do. One of the most important ways to grow your business is to be worthy of referrals, and of course you do that by being the best at what you do, whatever that is. By offering exceptional service, or excellent products at a fair price, or by really serving the customer, you will ensure that people will want to refer others to your business.

See more advice from our entire “Secrets of Growth” panel : 10 Expert Tips for Growing Your Business

Read more Julio Melara:

5 Tips for Building a Brand on a Budget

4 Ways of Positioning Yourself as an Expert