3 Business Lessons from 3 Decades

After three decades in the association industry and two years in racing sponsorship, I've learned much about building a successful business. Most of the learning didn't come from the wins as much as the Ls. Additionally, I learned from the circumstances that just keep coming up and never completely leave the journey of work.

## 1. Square Patience with Never Being Satisfied.

I spent 30 years developing my professional network and skills in associations. When I pivoted to racing, I realized that transferring experience to a new vertical just didn't happen immediately. When you compound an inherent characteristic of never being completely finished or satisfied, it can just make you nuts. Success requires an odd combination of patience and a thrill of chasing. If you're not self aware of both it's a pretty unhealthy place for your mental position.

## 2. Solve Problems and Quit Chasing Every Opportunity.

Early in my career I had so much fun with the new launch or project or opportunity. I've learned the highest-return actions are often the least glamorous and problematic. Instead of constantly seeking new opportunities, focus on fixing existing issues in your business. the things everyone knows and won't address unless you focus on them. Whether it's improving prospect research, refining your sales process, or addressing potential business killers, strategic problem-solving is key to sustaining your company.

## 3. Communicate Until You Wonder if Anyone Cares. Then do it More.

Nothing matters if people don't know who you are or what you do. I believe innumerous platforms – podcasts, articles, newsletters, short videos – to create trust and familiarity. This strategy has enabled me to scale a communications operation for a very low costs.

And smile for crying out loud! If you can show some joy and optimism during the process, then the audience that eventually become clients because they like you and want to collaborate with someone like you. That is a super powerful starting place for a business relationship.

When people unsubscribe or stop reading make adjustments but keep doing it. I don't worry about those individuals that aren't interested. That isn't my market.

I hope these lessons are helpful. What have you learned and are willing to share?

If you prefer audio content, here is the Push to Pass Podcast with JP Moery.