Saturday, July 31, 2010

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbook: Play #8

  A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #8

 

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

 

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout, change out your players or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

 

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I’ll be sending in a new play every day until you compile all 10!)

 

 

# 8: Don't Be Afraid of Change -

 

Even if you feel that you aren't changing, the world around you is.  More importantly, if you aren't changing, you can bet that your competitors are, and most likely trying to change for a competitive advantage over you.

 

It's only natural for us to get complacent and doing the same old thing because that's what we've always done.

 

I've got a great quote on the wall in my office that says "change is inevitable .... but growth is optional".  I don't know about you, but I choose to grow.

 

One of the advantages of having a diverse team is the fact that they offer a broad range of perspectives and opinion.  Older employees tend to stick to a tried-and-true method that may or may not be outdated, while younger employees have fresh brand-new ideas that you may want to consider implementing if the time seems right.  Listen to your team and try something new from time to time.

 

 

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com 

 

 

 

 

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbook: Play #8

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As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

 

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout, change out your players or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

 

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I’ll be sending in a new play every day until you compile all 10!)

 

 

# 8: Don't Be Afraid of Change -

 

Even if you feel that you aren't changing, the world around you is.  More importantly, if you aren't changing, you can bet that your competitors are, and most likely trying to change for a competitive advantage over you.

 

It's only natural for us to get complacent and doing the same old thing because that's what we've always done.

 

I've got a great quote on the wall in my office that says "change is inevitable .... but growth is optional".  I don't know about you, but I choose to grow.

 

One of the advantages of having a diverse team is the fact that they offer a broad range of perspectives and opinion.  Older employees tend to stick to a tried-and-true method that may or may not be outdated, while younger employees have fresh brand-new ideas that you may want to consider implementing if the time seems right.  Listen to your team and try something new from time to time.

 

 

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com 

 

 

 

Friday, July 30, 2010

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbook: Play #7

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: Play #7

 

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

 

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

 

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I’ll be sure to “send in” a new play every day until you have the complete list of top ten plays!)

 

 

 

# 7: Stay Current -

 

With technology advancing at warp speed, it's important for every business owner to stay up-to-date with some of the latest and greatest resources to help your business.  It's true that there's so much out there that one cannot possibly absorb it all, but that goes back to the matter of you needing to be an owner who can keep his/her "head up" to see the big picture and opportunities in front of you and not get wrapped up with a "nose to the grindstone" mentality and approach.

 

Be adventuresome and daring in trying new techniques and technology that can help enhance your business.  It's okay to take a "trial run" at various techniques just to see how they may fit into your business.  One thing is certain, "nothing stays the same, and change is the only constant".  You've got to keep up with the ever-changing world that we live in.  One of my favorite quotes about change is “Change is Evitable, but Growth is Optional”.  Keep growing!

 

 

 

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

James Donaldson 

 

President & Owner Professional Speaker, Entrepreneur Small Business Coach

Author of Standing Above the Crowd:  

Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business 

  

The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic) 

16030 Bothell - Everett Hwy. #200

Mill Creek, WA. 98012

425-745-4910 (voice mail)

800-745-3161 (Personal/Business Voice Mail/Fax)

 

www.DonaldsonClinic.com

 

JamesD@DonaldsonClinic.com

 

www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

 

JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com

 

www.CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

JDonaldson@CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

 

 

 

 

(Professional Speaking Engagements) 

 

Note: 

James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” (Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business).  He is also an accomplished motivational/inspirational speaker in which he shares his strategies and stories that he has utilized to become a “High Achiever” in lengthy (20 years) careers in professional sports and being a small business entrepreneur with The Donaldson Clinic.  He recently ran for the office of Mayor in the City of Seattle and has been passionately involved in various communities around the Seattle metropolitan area since graduation from Washington State University ’79.

If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161.  Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at  www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  

Pre-Order Your Copy of Standing Above The Crowd now!

Regular List Price is $25

Pre-order Price is Only..... 2 for $25...For Your Very Own Autographed Copy & One For A Friend!!!

 

Contact James Donaldson at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com 

 

   

 

 

 

 

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbok: Play #7

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: Play #7

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I’ll be sure to “send in” a new play every day until you have the complete list of top ten plays!)

# 7: Stay Current -

With technology advancing at warp speed, it's important for every business owner to stay up-to-date with some of the latest and greatest resources to help your business.  It's true that there's so much out there that one cannot possibly absorb it all, but that goes back to the matter of you needing to be an owner who can keep his/her "head up" to see the big picture and opportunities in front of you and not get wrapped up with a "nose to the grindstone" mentality and approach.

Be adventuresome and daring in trying new techniques and technology that can help enhance your business.  It's okay to take a "trial run" at various techniques just to see how they may fit into your business.  One thing is certain, "nothing stays the same, and change is the only constant".  You've got to keep up with the ever-changing world that we live in.  One of my favorite quotes about change is “Change is Evitable, but Growth is Optional”.  Keep growing!

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com 

James Donaldson

 

President & Owner Professional Speaker, Entrepreneur Small Business Coach

Author of Standing Above the Crowd:

Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business

  

The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic)

16030 Bothell - Everett Hwy. #200

Mill Creek, WA. 98012

425-745-4910 (voice mail)

800-745-3161 (Personal/Business Voice Mail/Fax)

www.DonaldsonClinic.com

 

JamesD@DonaldsonClinic.com

 

www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

 

JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com

www.CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

JDonaldson@CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

(Professional Speaking Engagements) 

 

Note: 

James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” (Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business).  He is also an accomplished motivational/inspirational speaker in which he shares his strategies and stories that he has utilized to become a “High Achiever” in lengthy (20 years) careers in professional sports and being a small business entrepreneur with The Donaldson Clinic.  He recently ran for the office of Mayor in the City of Seattle and has been passionately involved in various communities around the Seattle metropolitan area since graduation from Washington State University ’79.

If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161.  Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at  www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  

Pre-Order Your Copy of Standing Above The Crowd now!

Regular List Price is $25

Pre-order Price is Only..... 2 for $25...For Your Very Own Autographed Copy & One For A Friend!!!

 

Contact James Donaldson at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com 

 

   

 

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbok: Play #7

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: Play #7

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I’ll be sure to “send in” a new play every day until you have the complete list of top ten plays!)

# 7: Stay Current -

With technology advancing at warp speed, it's important for every business owner to stay up-to-date with some of the latest and greatest resources to help your business.  It's true that there's so much out there that one cannot possibly absorb it all, but that goes back to the matter of you needing to be an owner who can keep his/her "head up" to see the big picture and opportunities in front of you and not get wrapped up with a "nose to the grindstone" mentality and approach.

Be adventuresome and daring in trying new techniques and technology that can help enhance your business.  It's okay to take a "trial run" at various techniques just to see how they may fit into your business.  One thing is certain, "nothing stays the same, and change is the only constant".  You've got to keep up with the ever-changing world that we live in.  One of my favorite quotes about change is “Change is Evitable, but Growth is Optional”.  Keep growing!

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com 

James Donaldson

 

President & Owner Professional Speaker, Entrepreneur Small Business Coach

Author of Standing Above the Crowd:

Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business

  

The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic)

16030 Bothell - Everett Hwy. #200

Mill Creek, WA. 98012

425-745-4910 (voice mail)

800-745-3161 (Personal/Business Voice Mail/Fax)

www.DonaldsonClinic.com

 

JamesD@DonaldsonClinic.com

 

www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

 

JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com

www.CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

JDonaldson@CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

(Professional Speaking Engagements) 

 

Note: 

James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” (Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business).  He is also an accomplished motivational/inspirational speaker in which he shares his strategies and stories that he has utilized to become a “High Achiever” in lengthy (20 years) careers in professional sports and being a small business entrepreneur with The Donaldson Clinic.  He recently ran for the office of Mayor in the City of Seattle and has been passionately involved in various communities around the Seattle metropolitan area since graduation from Washington State University ’79.

If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161.  Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at  www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  

Pre-Order Your Copy of Standing Above The Crowd now!

Regular List Price is $25

Pre-order Price is Only..... 2 for $25...For Your Very Own Autographed Copy & One For A Friend!!!

 

Contact James Donaldson at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com 

 

   

 

Thursday, July 29, 2010

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbook: Play #6

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook

 

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

 

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

 

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I will be “sending in” a new play every day until you have all ten!)

 

 

# 6: Realize Early on That You Don't Know Everything -

Most business owners find themselves at various stages of their businesses, having to wear a multitude of hats.  That's okay from time to time, but it's also important to keep in mind, that there are probably other people out there who can do a much better job than you can simply because they can bring a different perspective.  Every business owner will find themselves at the early stages of their business for fulfilling just about every role imaginable, be it answering phones, scheduling clients, marketing and/or keeping the books,.... and that's fine from time to time (matter-of-fact it's good to learn every position in your business) but you don't want your business to rely on you having to fill every role.

 

As soon as you're able, delegate responsibilities to others on your team so that they feel more valuable, and it eases the workload on you.

 

 

 

 

 

James Donaldson 

 

President & Owner Professional Speaker, Entrepreneur Small Business Coach

Author of Standing Above the Crowd:  

Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business 

  

The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic) 

16030 Bothell - Everett Hwy. #200

Mill Creek, WA. 98012

425-745-4910 (voice mail)

800-745-3161 (Personal/Business Voice Mail/Fax)

 

www.DonaldsonClinic.com

 

JamesD@DonaldsonClinic.com

 

www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

 

JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com

 

www.CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

JDonaldson@CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

 

 

 

 

(Professional Speaking Engagements) 

 

Note: 

James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” (Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business).  He is also an accomplished motivational/inspirational speaker in which he shares his strategies and stories that he has utilized to become a “High Achiever” in lengthy (20 years) careers in professional sports and being a small business entrepreneur with The Donaldson Clinic.  He recently ran for the office of Mayor in the City of Seattle and has been passionately involved in various communities around the Seattle metropolitan area since graduation from Washington State University ’79.

If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161.  Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at  www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  

Pre-Order Your Copy of Standing Above The Crowd now!

Regular List Price is $25

Pre-order Price is Only..... 2 for $25...For Your Very Own Autographed Copy & One For A Friend!!!

 

Contact James Donaldson at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top Ten Playbook: Play #6

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I will be “sending in” a new play every day until you have all ten!)

# 6: Realize Early on That You Don't Know Everything -

Most business owners find themselves at various stages of their businesses, having to wear a multitude of hats.  That's okay from time to time, but it's also important to keep in mind, that there are probably other people out there who can do a much better job than you can simply because they can bring a different perspective.  Every business owner will find themselves at the early stages of their business for fulfilling just about every role imaginable, be it answering phones, scheduling clients, marketing and/or keeping the books,.... and that's fine from time to time (matter-of-fact it's good to learn every position in your business) but you don't want your business to rely on you having to fill every role.

As soon as you're able, delegate responsibilities to others on your team so that they feel more valuable, and it eases the workload on you.

James Donaldson

 

President & Owner Professional Speaker, Entrepreneur Small Business Coach

Author of Standing Above the Crowd:

Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business

  

The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic)

16030 Bothell - Everett Hwy. #200

Mill Creek, WA. 98012

425-745-4910 (voice mail)

800-745-3161 (Personal/Business Voice Mail/Fax)

www.DonaldsonClinic.com

 

JamesD@DonaldsonClinic.com

 

www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

 

JamesD@StandingAboveThe Crowd.com

www.CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

JDonaldson@CollegeSuccessFoundation.org

 

(Professional Speaking Engagements) 

 

Note: 

James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” (Executing Your Game Plan To Become The Best You Can Be In Sports, Life & Business).  He is also an accomplished motivational/inspirational speaker in which he shares his strategies and stories that he has utilized to become a “High Achiever” in lengthy (20 years) careers in professional sports and being a small business entrepreneur with The Donaldson Clinic.  He recently ran for the office of Mayor in the City of Seattle and has been passionately involved in various communities around the Seattle metropolitan area since graduation from Washington State University ’79.

If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161.  Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at  www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  

Pre-Order Your Copy of Standing Above The Crowd now!

Regular List Price is $25

Pre-order Price is Only..... 2 for $25...For Your Very Own Autographed Copy & One For A Friend!!!

 

Contact James Donaldson at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com 

 

   

 

James Donaldson: A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: P...

James Donaldson: A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: P...: "A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #5 As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete wi..."

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: Play #5

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #5

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a start-up company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I'll be sure to "send" in another play everyday for you until you have the complete set of "Top Ten Plays").


# 5: Peer Networking -

One of the most valuable activities that you can involve yourself with as a business owner is networking with your peers.  There are numerous opportunities for you to get outside of your business and network with other business owners.

There are groups such as the Chambers of Commerce, Rotary, Business Associations, and several weekly or monthly membership-based networking groups.  Make sure that you attend one or two networking activities a month in order to promote your business and find out about those businesses in your community.


Remember to take a big stack of your business cards, and be sure to jot a short note on the back of business cards you receive so that you can remember where you met that person and to follow-up!

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

James Donaldson: A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: P...

James Donaldson: A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: P...: "A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #4 As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete wi..."

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: Play #4

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #4

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a start-up company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I'll be sure to "send" in a new play for you everyday until you have the complete list of "Top Ten Plays").


# 4: Empower Your Team -

Equip your team with the resources that they need in order to be successful.  In addition to helping them be successful, you’ll be successful too.  It's tempting to take shortcuts in order to save money, but it's important to keep your team up to speed in this day and age of high technology and development.

Your team will consist of professional advisors and everyday employment personnel.  No matter what position they occupy in your business, it's important that they have the tools that they need in order to help your business be the best it can be. 

Another thing to keep in mind is to delegate responsibility and decision-making capabilities to various personnel throughout your company.  An employee, who feels empowered by the owner, is a much more productive employee.

Monday, July 26, 2010

James Donaldson: A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: P...

James Donaldson: A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: P...: "A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #3 As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete wi..."

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: Play #3

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook: #3

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a start-up company or a well-established business, it would go something like this.


# 3: Assemble Your Team -

A smart business entrepreneur makes sure that he or she is surrounded by talented professionals and not just a bunch of "yes" people.  It's essential that you have a professional corporate attorney, CPA, financial advisor, bookkeeper, insurance person and a front office manager as part of your team.  An attorney and CPA are must from the start, and you can add additional pieces to your team as you grow.

Be sure that you take the advice of your professional advisors, after all that's what you pay them for.  You may not always like what they have to say, but it's important to listen to them.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: Play #2

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook #2

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize various aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout, change out players, or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this. (I'll be sending in a new play for you everyday over the next several days to complete your top 10 list!)


# 2: Believe in Your Talent -  

Talent by itself is never enough.  There are a lot of times that you'll see people who have tremendous talent (I've seen it over and over in the athletic world) come up way short of ever fulfilling their potential.  You have to believe in your talent, be passionate about your talent, continue to invest in your talent and surround yourself with the best talent available.



Bottom line is that talent by itself is never enough.  Successful people find ways to maximize their talent and surround themselves with the best talent and resources available to them.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook: Play #1

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize various aspects of both those endeavors that have helped me to become a successful small business person. 


Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout, change out players, or when to call another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and having the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you're a start-up company or a well established business, it would go something like this:  (I will send in a new play for you everyday for the next10 days, check back often!)


#1: Have a Vision - 
Where is it that you see your small business in 3 to 5 years?  How do you want your business to look in that time?  How should it be running?  Do you have a business plan?  Do you have a Mission Statement?  Do you have a Vision Statement?  What is your succession plan?