The small business microscope

Being an owner of a small business is exciting.  It brings with it unique opportunities and benefits.  It also brings with it unique challenges. One of those challenges is the microscope.  Whether it is held by your clients or by your partners, it will be dialed in much finer than it is in a large firm. This allows for the opportunity to have successes recognized more than they may be in a large firm environment, as well as faults or errors.  

The key to success in the small business environment is attitude.  If it makes you uncomfortable to be so closely watched, criticized, and appreciated then it probably isn't the environment for you.  But, if you are able to allow this type of scrutiny to help you become better at your job, then it is a great environment for you.  If the praise and criticism is taken well--with an open mind and the desire to become ever better at what you do--this type of environment will allow you to thrive.  It may be a long haul and require more and different work to succeed, but it will provide you with the feedback you need to rise above average and to bring you to a place where you do not blend in, but stand out.