A Growing Japanese Trend Should Give American Entrepreneurs Serious Thought About How They Run Their Businesses

What do you do with a client who keeps breaking their promises? It’s certainly not an easy problem to solve. And, even more difficult when you come to the realization you’re a bigger part of the issue than you originally thought. As is the case with so many complicated circumstances, you probably share a good amount of fault. That isn’t to excuse the promise-breaker. But, it does serve as a reminder that it takes two people to take responsibility. About Promise-Breaking Clients It’s a more common phenomenon that you might believe. Not that it’s justified or even reasonably expected. However, clients have many reasons why — yes, some are excuses — for not following through with their word. It could be something beyond their control. Or, just a change of heart (and perhaps, circumstances). It’s an old rule of life that we teach people how to treat us. Yet often we can struggle when it comes to managing accountability and calling people on broken promises. It just feels like less stress to say nothing; even to just do it ourselves. But here’s the deal: when you decide not to call someone on their broken promise and ill-managed commitment, you’re, albeit inadvertently, being part of the problem. —Forbes.com Regardless of how often it happens, it does happen. So, that’s something you should be prepared for, because eventually, you’ll run into it. Usually, it’s not out of malice or selfishness, but rather, unrealistic expectations. When it does happen, you should know how to respond. How to Deal with a Client Who Keeps Breaking their Promises There’s an old saying in the real estate sales industry, “Buyers are liars.” It comes from a modicum of truth, but is obviously more of an exaggeration. Although, it does point out how people tend to embellish or overstate their resources and intentions. If you have a client who doesn’t always follow through on his or her promises, try these suggestions: Remind them. The first time won’t be the last. So, let him or her know what you expected and that you’ll expect them to deliver in the future. You don’t have to be rude, just stern but kind. If you show you’re willing to call them out, he or she will be less likely to do the same again. Don’t make up for them. It’s tempting to pick up the slack yourself but that rewards their behavior by avoiding consequences. After all, you value your reputation and take pride in your work. So, you make up for the short fall. But, this will only backfire. You’re only teaching him or her you’re always there to make things right. So, they don’t have to worry about it. That will only lead to more trouble. Don’t stay vulnerable. This is the most difficult, though it’s sometimes unavoidable. If it happens more than once and you don’t say anything, expect it to keep happening. Conversely, if you let them know you’re not going to tolerate his or her behavior, you can help break the cycle. What other suggestions do you have for dealing with a client who breaks their promises? Please share your thoughts and experiences by commenting! Interested in learning more about business? Then just visit Waters Business Consulting Group.

Starting a new business is an exciting venture, but it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. According to research, about 20% of new businesses fail in their first year, and about 50% fail within five years. While there are many factors that can contribute to business failure, some are more common than others. Big Mistakes New Entrepreneurs should Avoid The numbers above aren’t the only ones that are out there. Other studies reveal the new business failure rate is as high as 75% (depending on how “failure” is defined.) However, most findings agree fewer than half will survive long enough to celebrate their fifth year in business. …being an entrepreneur and founding a successful startup is difficult. It’s a long and difficult road, and you will make mistakes, regardless of how hard you try not to. In fact, there are a few common mistakes that entrepreneurs make, especially during their first time attempting to start a business. Thankfully, the key to mitigating risk from those mistakes, and hopefully avoiding them altogether, is understanding as much about them as possible. —Forbes.com What’s more, of the less than half that do make it to their fifth year, a mere 33% of those entities will go on to celebrate their tenth year in business. So, let’s take some time to explore the most common reasons new businesses go broke and how entrepreneurs can avoid failing. Lack of Market Research One of the most common reasons new businesses fail is a lack of market research. It’s important to understand the needs of your target audience, as well as the competition, in order to create a successful business. Entrepreneurs who skip this step may find that their product or service is not in demand, or that they are unable to compete with established businesses in the industry. To avoid this mistake, conduct thorough market research before launching your business. This may involve surveys, focus groups, or other methods of gathering feedback from potential customers. By understanding the needs of your target audience and the competition, you can create a business that is more likely to succeed. Poor Financial Planning Another common reason new businesses fail is poor financial planning. Entrepreneurs may underestimate the costs involved in starting and running a business or fail to secure adequate funding to cover these costs. Additionally, some entrepreneurs may overspend on non-essential items, such as fancy office spaces or unnecessary equipment. To avoid this miscalculation, create a detailed business plan that includes financial projections and a budget. This can help you estimate the costs involved in starting and running your business, as well as identify potential sources of funding. It’s also important to keep track of your expenses and income and to adjust your budget as needed. Lack of Marketing and Branding Even if your product or service is high-quality, it’s important to effectively market and brand your business. Entrepreneurs who fail to do so may find that they are unable to attract customers or establish themselves as a reputable business. To avoid this blunder, create a marketing plan that includes branding, advertising, and other promotional efforts. This may involve creating a logo and website, networking with potential customers and industry professionals, and investing in online and offline advertising. Poor Management Effective management is key to the success of any business. Entrepreneurs who lack management experience may struggle to make important decisions, delegate tasks, or create a positive company culture. Additionally, entrepreneurs who try to do everything themselves may become overwhelmed and burned out, which can negatively impact the business. To avoid these missteps, hire experienced managers and delegate tasks effectively. It’s also important to create a positive company culture that promotes productivity, teamwork, and employee satisfaction. Inflexibility Finally, entrepreneurs who are unwilling or unable to adapt to changing market conditions may struggle to keep their businesses afloat. This may involve being unwilling to pivot the business model, invest in new technologies, or adjust pricing and marketing strategies. To avoid this foil, remain open-minded and adaptable. This may involve regularly monitoring market conditions, soliciting feedback from customers, and being willing to make changes when necessary. As we all know, starting a new business is a risky endeavor, but by avoiding common mistakes and implementing effective strategies, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success. What other mistakes would you include and warn entrepreneurs about? Please take a few brief moments to share your experiences and more so others can benefit from your input! Interested in learning more about business? Then just visit Waters Business Consulting Group.