We Just Did What?!? A Look Back at Our First Year in Business

Hopefully, these might help someone else as they start their business journey. We also have had a ton of support, help – and honestly – some luck too. Thank you to all those who have been a part of this journey so far, it really means the world to us. So, before we get all mushy, here are some of the top things we’ve learned so far:

Being intentional makes a difference.
Part of our business plan included defined goals of what we were going to do, who we were going to prospect, what partners we would work with, and how we would do it. Looking back at our plan today, I’m pretty proud (and honestly a little surprised) that the majority of it came to fruition.

Be authentic and you’ll gain trust.
Most people have a predisposition to want to work with small businesses. If you’re honest about what you can do and how you think you can help – there’s a good chance you can earn their business and their trust. If you make a mistake – own up to it. If you know you can’t do something – let them know up front. People are counting on you know, do what you can to set proper expectations and not let them down.

Running a business is both easier – and harder – than it seems.
If you plan correctly, running a small business doesn’t have to be difficult. Spend the money up front to have attorneys review agreements, accountants monitor financials, and insurance agents assess risks, and you can figure out most of the rest. One thing that will surprise you no matter how much you plan – regulation and taxes. There is a never-ending list of new forms, taxes, compliance, and other procedures that seem antiquated. And the hardest part, it all lands on you – the owner(s) – eventually.

You’re going to have some hard days.
There are going to be days where you wonder why you ever did this. In the first days, weeks, and months, there may be more of these days than days where you’re excited and happy. See it through. If you believe in your goal and you’re putting in the work – it will pass.

Your detractors will fade.
Many small businesses have some haters who don’t believe you can succeed, either for personal reasons, jealousy, ego, or because it conflicts with their personal goals. However, if you’re committed to your success, you’ll find that these people can’t keep up.

I hope these thoughts help! We were lucky in that a major component for any small business – marketing – is our specialty. But many aren’t so lucky, and it’s a hard expense to budget for and implement. If we can help you with some consulting, conversation is free at our agency. Reach out to Daniel Smith at 423.503.0388 or dsmith@marketretrievers.com and let’s talk!