In the last of this 3-part series we will look at how technology drives success in business today. Years ago a listing or ad in the yellow pages was sufficient for people to find businesses. Today, the web is the way.
4. No or poorly designed Website
Simply put, if you have a business today, you need a website and it has to be current, user-friendly and inviting. According to J.P. Morgan, global E-commerce revenue grew by 19% in 2011 totaling $680 billion. The US Census Bureau EStats reports an increase in US internet sales from 24% in 2009 to 46% in 2011.
At the very least, every business should have a professional looking and well-designed website that enables users to easily find out about their business and how to obtain the products and/or services. Later, additional ways to generate revenue on the website can be added; i.e., selling ad space, drop-shipping products, or recommending affiliate products.
Remember, if you don’t have a website, you’ll most likely be losing business to those that do. Moreover, make sure that website makes your business look good, not bad — you want to increase revenues, not decrease them.
When it comes to the success of any new business, you — the business owner — are ultimately the “secret” to your success. For many successful business owners, failure was never an option. Armed with drive, determination, and a positive mindset, these individuals view any setback as only an opportunity to learn and grow. Most self-made millionaires possess average intelligence. What sets them apart is their openness to new knowledge and their willingness to learn whatever it takes to succeed.
Try using the HOW approach: be Honest with yourself and your clients, be Open to new ideas, approaches and concepts, and be Willing to step outside of your ego and into your potential.