7 Top Lessons to Help Every Small Business Reach Milestones

7 Top Lessons to Help Every Small Business Reach Milestones According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.7% of U.S. employer firms. They also report that only around one-third of all businesses started survive to the 10-year mark. There is a lot that goes into making it to that milestone, so that one’s business can outlast any challenges that come their way. Knowing those top lessons can help others not only survive, but to thrive. Many of the small businesses that do not stand the test of time end up closing, but it’s not always because they don’t have a good product or service. Often times, it’s because they don’t see the bigger picture beyond what it is that they are selling or the services they are offering. When that happens, entrepreneurs can become too narrowly focused, allowing other issues to become larger challenges that will catch up with them. Business success comes to those who see that everything is related. Things such as attitude and interpersonal relationships have more to do with how far a business can go than what most people realize, or than what is taught in business text books. When you can work on the issues that help make up the atmosphere, and tackle challenges with determination, there’s a good chance your business will see the next milestone. “Being an entrepreneur certainly has its set of challenges,” explains Cher Murphy, owner of Cher Murphy PR. “But if you are able to grow and hold onto what is important, you can weather the storm. You have to focus on the positives and stick to a set of principles that guide you through your days and weeks, pushing year after year.” Cher knows just what it takes to reach that milestone, as her public relations firm is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. While she knew public relations like the back of her hand when she opened her business, there are some lessons she knows have helped guide her toward long-term success. Here are those top 7 lessons that will help every small business reach milestones: Support one another. Especially for women-owned businesses, it’s a good idea to support one another. Seek out other small businesses that are owned by females and collaborate in order to help both companies thrive. Find people you can work well with. Small business owners will usually need others they can work with, even if it’s on a freelance basis. Find those people who you can trust and work well with, so you can rely on them when in need. Know when to compromise. Many people have to make compromises in businesses, but they should never be made when it comes to your core values. Never sacrifice honesty or integrity. Being honest and treating people well will strengthen your business. Be disciplined. When you are your own boss you don’t have someone reminding you of deadlines. There are many distractions in today’s world. Entrepreneurs have to be disciplined so that they meet the needs of their clients and help to grow their business. Build relationships. Referrals are usually made as a result of the relationships that people build. Take the time to build good relationships with people in a variety of sectors. It will come back in the form of referrals. Keep a good attitude. Having an attitude of gratitude is ideal. Leave the bad days behind, don’t let the challenges bring you down, and just keep being positive. Be patient. Everyone wants success overnight, but as the saying goes, the journey of a 1,000 miles starts with a single step. It takes time.  But when you plug away at it consistently and keep heading in the right direction it will happen. “I’m proud to be celebrating 10 years and look forward to many more,” adds Murphy. “Along with being committed to helping my clients meet their needs, I also try to give back to others, even if it’s by offering advice. When you place a high priority on hard work you are bound to see good results.” Cher Murphy PR has helped many clients over the last decade to garner media attention on national and local television, print publications, and online. They have represented such companies and organizations as Guardians of Rescue, Hound Gatos Pet Food Corporation, The Doctor Yum Project, Alcatraz East Crime Museum, EOD Warrior Foundation, Paws of War and many more. For more information, visit the site at:  www.chermurphypr.com. About Cher Murphy PR Celebrating 10 year milestone, Cher Murphy PR helps businesses survive and thrive. Cher Murphy PR is a full-service public relations agency which focuses on large-to-small business public and media relations management. The firm was started by public relations veteran Cher Murphy.  Cher is a publicist with extensive experience in the industry and an impressive network of contacts. The company has helped a wide range of companies to benefit from media exposure in the way of broadcast, print, and online outlets. As experts in the field, they have extensive experience working in a vast majority of sectors.   For more information, visit the site at:  www.chermurphypr.com. . Image credits. Main.  Meeting.