15 Things I learned in 2019 Which Can Help Anyone Who's in an Early Stage Startup/Business

It's been 4 years for me in business. I currently run an Online Ad agency Blusteak. 2019 was a big year for us as we expanded to a new office, added 10 people and got 40+ clients to work with.

I am pointing out some lessons that I learned about running a business this year below:

1) Start the year with some new plans/Manifesto

2) Hire people only if you truly need a guy inhouse. Else outsource to a freelancer or an agency.

3) It is of the highest priority to provide the salary for your employees on the correct date.

4) Don't over appreciate employees, give constructive criticism.

5) Be very selective in taking clients. If they are reluctant for your budget & ideas, avoid it as soon as possible.

6) Go see face to face with the clients regularly.

7) Provide something extra for clients which is not mentioned in the proposal.

8) Listen more.

9) Respect time & promises

10) Be a closer - if you start something, you have to finish it.

11) Empathise with your partners/cofounders. Maybe they are right.

12) Be open to new ideas. You might have a history of great ideas, but someone else can bring up an even better one.

13) Morning meeting & quarterly meetings are crucial.

14) Spend for the morale of your employees.

15) ALWAYS BE LEAN. THINK TWICE BEFORE SPENDING A PENNY.

Hope this helps. Thank You :)

[About the author: Jaison Thomas is an Entrepreneur, Speaker & Writer. He co-founded the digital marketing agency, Blusteak.]