Disaster Planning, A Refresher Course

Many businesses don't have a viable Emergency Plan. But why not? People who were prepared are doing a lot better than those who ignored warnings and didn't plan. But, have you thought about your business? Below are my top three tips for business preparedness during a natural disaster.

# 1 - Make copies of your important records and store them in a secure place far enough away in case a widespread disaster hits, yet close enough to have quick access to those documents when needed. Don't rely on computer back-ups like cloud files or jump drives. Chances are if a natural disaster hits- there is no electricity!

#2 - Keep an up-to-date list of e-mail addresses, financial account numbers, and phone numbers for family members, employees, co-workers, and insurance company contacts. This list should be kept with the copies of important records (noted above) as well as within your wallet at all times.

#3 Put together an emergency kit that includes one gallon of water per person per day, a three-day supply of non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, solar-powered phone chargers, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit and a cooler to keep refrigerated food cold in case of a power outage.

Want to learn more? Subscribe to my blog! I will be discussing this issue, and more, in the coming days.

Twyla N. Garrett

The Most Common Business Mistakes

You're a new business owner. You're making a profit. Things are going great, or so you think! Business owners often make major mistakes during their first few years. I've listed some of the most common ones to watch out for. If you know about them, chances are you will not make them.... saving yourself face and money!

#1. Not knowing your demographic. This happens many, many, many times. Business owners project who their target audience is. However, the projected demographic and who is actually buying can be two different audiences. So, set up some testing groups to ensure your sales will hit the right audience immediately out of the gate.

#2. Spending too much money. Yes, it takes money to make money. This doesn't mean you invest all your money on every pitch (and you will get a lot of pitches) during the first two or three years. Save your money. Only buy what you need and what has been tried and praised by other business owners.

#3. Deciding against your intuition. Your gut will always be right. Don't try to convince yourself otherwise. If something does feel, smell, taste, or look right- run like hell. Your in business because you have guts, don't be afraid to listen to them!

Twyla

How to waste time in business!

My biggest pet peeve when it comes to business owners are those who seek success but also pray for miracles or reach for silver bullets. You have to put the time in. Not a single person who has been successful in business wished their way there. No one has a magic wand. So, if you are not going to commit to your business and you plan on using shortcuts, know that you are wasting your time!

Let's be honest here.... a lot of people TALK about owning or starting a business. But, many don't because there really is no shortcut to launching a business or finding funding. So, why put in all the work to launch a product or brand and then give up by using shortcuts or hoping for miracles when it comes to sales and marketing? Do you see where I am going with this?

Inc.com recently noted "hoping for shortcuts" as their number three time waster. I disagree. It is the number one time waster in business because shortcuts mean that you don't care! And, if you don't care - don't go into business.

Do you know time wasters? People who love shortcuts or those who wish for magic wands and avoid problems? If so, let's continue this conversation on Twitter. Feel free to DM me.

Twyla