What I've learned from 5 years in Business

Today Tweetinggoddess celebrates 5 years in Business!Wow what a rollercoaster! I've learned a lot ....been through a lot. Struggled a lot .....cried a lot, laughed, got excited and then disappointed. When I think I'm at the cusp of that big deal.......have not heard anything back about said deal. (I don't know how some people have jobs as some don't even reply to things or follow up).

Things I have learned along the way:

1. You will find out that listening is important - I used to think that when you network, it’s important to give your business card and make sure people know what you do. But I soon discovered that the most important thing you can do is listen. Ask people what they do instead or listen to what is being said already if joining a group. People will always remember how you made them feel so be nice, smile and listen.

2. You will find out that everyone is NOT your friend. It’s great when you find people you really click with especially in business, but unfortunately not everyone is really a friend. There are people out there who will take take take and grab an opportunity and remember your weakness so be careful what you disclose. They will know your weakness and use that. Get terms and conditions or a contract, get testimonials and always be professional. (I've only started to do this lately which is stupid as I'm in business a long time)!

It’s a small world out there and word spreads so never bitch about others or if you think like this: Don’t put in a text what you don’t want to hear read out in court.

3. Find a close group of people who you trust. Get a mentor - someone who you admire who can advise you. Join my Women’s inspire network and ask me if you are unsure. Always get at least 3 different quotes from people you are thinking of doing business with. It’s like real life. Not everyone has your best interests at heart. Having a great community around you that you can trust is crucial

4. Don’t go on social media if you are under the influence of alcohol (Thank goodness I don’t drink anymore, phew)! Also don't go on social media when you are angry.

5. Your family won’t understand what you do and why you are so passionate about your business. Sometimes family will be sick of listening to you go on about your passion. Yes I was surprised by this one too! So surround yourself with some like minded people who will ‘get you’ and what you do.

6. Not everyone will like you…..yes really! There are so many personalities out there and not everyone likes me that’s for sure. What I do is I just keep my head down and do what I do best. Social media and idea creation is my strength. I don’t have to be nice to people who are not nice to me or ignore me. Yes some people say ‘you gotta play the game’ well you don’t but do stay professional and polite. Some people might just think I’m too loud, annoying or too ‘in your face’ or they could find you a threat. But that is their stuff not yours.

7. People will copy your ideas. This is something that happens a LOT. Just keep being the best and ignore them. The ones who copy others don’t last very long in my experience. Yes it’s frustrating but they don’t have your unique selling point - YOU.

8. Self care is crucial - You can't run your business without looking after your own mental health. When you are well, strong and healthy then your business will be the same. All leaders who you admire you will notice they don't just go to the pub, they are always out doing things in the community, at the gym, out walking, taking part in charity events and looking good. They look good because they look after themselves.

9. If you don't want to play the game, change the game.

10. If you want to stand out from the rest, share your knowledge and show you are the best. Be kind. Assist others. It's more difficult to do this but this is what works - people buy from people so be yourself, stand out and use your USP ...YOU.

11. It's important to have fun in Business. It's ok to laugh and enjoy what you are doing. It's ok to be real. It's ok to smile. If you aren't enjoying it, stop doing it.

12. Learn as much as you can. I don't know everything. So I keep learning all the time.

If you want to help me continue for another 5 years, then hire me or sponsor one of my events. I can guide you through the minefield that can be social media and show you how to stand out.

My next conference is on October 22nd in City North Hotel. Be part of the magic and get your business noticed! Book your ticket here If you'd like to sponsor Email me [email protected]