Covid isn’t over. In fact, the virus is probably here to stay for a long, long time, perhaps forever as endemic. But, the worst is likely well behind us. However, some small business owners are using the pandemic as an excuse and customers aren’t buying it. This is because consumers are well aware of what’s really going on and do not take kindly to such unbelievable explanations. So, it’s time for small business owners to stop using Covid as an excuse. Now, let’s take a look at why it’s so damaging. Excuses are Bad for Business Small business owners have a lot on their plate. They are responsible for wearing many hats and often have to do everything themselves. This can lead to some owners making excuses to their customers when things don’t go as planned. While it may be tempting to do this, it’s important to remember that there are many consequences for doing so. This is because there are compelling reasons why small business owners should never make excuses to their customers. Business experts wince at pandemic excuses because, well, they’re excuses, which are not the bailiwick of successful entrepreneurs—who are, by definition, problem solvers. Although tossing off a Covid excuse may seem benign, it creates a messaging problem because it’s likely deceitful: Customers are now savvy to the fact that supply chain, safety, and staffing challenges are well-established market conditions—not sudden pandemic blows. —Bloomberg Business Remember, customers will accept difficulties for what they are. They understand some situations are simply beyond a small business’ control. But, when others in the industry are moving forward, meeting their customers’ needs, it becomes dangerous for entrepreneurs to make excuses. Why Small Business Owners Shouldn’t make Excuses to their Customers Covid has become the proverbial “dog ate the homework” excuse. Sure, it is possible, but it’s also growingly becoming improbable. In other words, sure, the pandemic and shutdown may have lingering effects. But, to apply it capriciously is just a bad business practice. Some of the reasons why small business owners should never make excuses to their customers include: It harms credibility. When a small business owner makes an excuse to a customer, they are essentially saying that they are not capable of handling the situation. This can cause the customer to lose faith in the small business and may never use their services again. Businesses can suffer a bad name. If a small business is known for making excuses to their customers, it will not be long before word gets out. Customers will start to avoid doing business with them because they know that they will not be able to count on them to deliver what they promise. It makes owners appear ineffective. When a small business owner makes excuses to their customers, it makes them look like they are not in control of their business. This can lead to the customer questioning the owner’s ability to run their business and may cause them to take their business elsewhere. Customers may never return. If a small business owner regularly makes excuses to their customers, it is only a matter of time before they start losing them. Once a customer has had enough of being lied to, they will take their business to competitors who deliver and may never come back. As you can see, there are many reasons why small business owners should never make excuses to their customers. While it may be tempting to do so in the moment, it is important to remember that the consequences can be very severe. If you are a small business owner, do your best to always be honest with your customers and never make excuses for your mistakes. Your business will be better off in the long run. Do you have any tips for small business owners on how to avoid making excuses to their customers? Please, take a moment to share your thoughts and experiences so others can benefit from your input! Interested in learning more about business? Then just visit Waters Business Consulting Group.

Business Owners, Pay Attention to Employees Who Bring Bagged Lunches, Because They Usually Share These Impressive Qualities As a business owner, it’s easy to overlook the small, everyday habits of your employees, but sometimes these seemingly minor details can reveal a lot about their character and potential. One habit that might catch your attention is when employees consistently bring bagged lunches to work. While it might seem like a simple cost-saving measure or a personal preference, employees who take the time to prepare their meals often share some impressive qualities that can be invaluable to your business. That’s right. These individuals may possess bigger, untapped potential. With this in mind, we’ll take a little time to explore why those brown bag lunches might be a sign of the discipline, foresight, and commitment that could make these employees your next top performers. 6 Qualities Bagged-Lunch Employees Usually Possess Okay. You’d certainly notice if a particular team member brings in beneficia new business or implements a different way of doing this or that, greatly increasing productivity. But, there are also smaller, more subtle telltale signs someone might have a lot more to offer. For instance, employees bringing brown bag lunches to work can reveal much about their potential, habits, and mindset. Here are some insights that might be gleaned from this seemingly simple behavior: Discipline and planning. Bringing a brown bag lunch indicates that an employee takes the time to plan their meals ahead of time. This level of foresight and preparation often translates into their work habits, suggesting they are organized, proactive, and capable of managing their responsibilities efficiently. Such employees are likely to be reliable and disciplined, making them strong candidates for tasks that require attention to detail and long-term planning. Financial savvy. Employees who bring their lunch often do so to save money. This behavior shows an awareness of budgeting and a focus on financial responsibility, which can be valuable in roles that involve managing resources or cost control. Their financial mindfulness could indicate a practical, resourceful approach to problem-solving, making them suitable for roles that require fiscal prudence or operational efficiency. Health consciousness. Preparing a brown bag lunch allows employees to control what they eat, often leading to healthier choices. This shows a commitment to personal well-being, which can reflect positively on their overall energy levels, productivity, and ability to handle stress. Health-conscious employees may have the stamina and mental clarity needed for demanding projects, making them strong candidates for roles that require sustained focus and resilience. Self-sufficiency. Bringing lunch from home indicates a degree of self-sufficiency. These employees are not reliant on external sources (like restaurants or cafeterias) for their needs, which can translate into their work ethic. Self-sufficient employees are often independent thinkers who can take initiative and work without constant supervision, making them ideal for leadership roles or positions that require autonomy. Commitment to routine. Consistently bringing a lunch shows a commitment to routine and a structured approach to their day. This can reflect an ability to stick to schedules and follow through on commitments, important traits for any role that requires dependability. Employees with a strong sense of routine are often reliable and consistent, traits that are valuable in roles that require steady performance over time. Focus on productivity. Bringing a lunch means less time spent going out to eat, which can lead to more time focused on work. This indicates that the employee values productivity and may prefer to use their break time efficiently. Such employees may have a strong work ethic and a drive to maximize their productivity, making them valuable assets in fast-paced environments where efficiency is key. While bringing a brown bag lunch might seem like an insignificant, everyday decision, it can offer insights into an employee’s character and potential. Traits like discipline, financial savvy, self-sufficiency, and a focus on health and productivity are all positive indicators that can suggest strong future performance and growth within an organization. Want to Accomplish More? Do you want your company to grow faster and earn more while you spend more time with your family doing all the things you started your business to do? We can make that dream a reality. Give us 30 minutes and we will show you how to get your life back. Skeptical? Good! Put us to the test. You can call us for your free appointment at (602) 541-1760, or, if you prefer,