Sustaining a start-up is no easy feat. This is evidenced by the fact that 60% of UK startups don’t make it past the third year of business.
But when you’ve come up with an idea for a product or service that can change people’s lives for the better and make you a few bob in the process, just how do you propel that venture to success?
With that question in mind, here are three effective ways to improve your startup business.
- Social Media
If you thought social media was just for posting selfies and moaning about life, think again.
Having a social media presence helps your business become your customers’ trusted friend because it allows you to interact with them on the platforms they love by posting valuable content (blogs, videos, pictures), and replying to their comments.
However, be wary of falling into the trap of posting content for the sake of posting. It’s far better to post three valuable pieces of content a week than 10 irrelevant ones – do the latter and your follower count will soon begin to dwindle.
Hot Tip: If you’re operating in the B2B sector, use LinkedIn to connect with key industry players.
- Motivate your team
You’ve probably heard the saying, ‘you’re only as strong as the team around you’ and it’s one adage that really rings true for business, because if your staff morale is low, your company will underperform.
In fact, research has found that disengaged employees cost the UK between £52-£70 billion per year in lost productivity. It’s therefore important that your team are happy and engaged in their work.
There are various ways you can go about motivating your staff. For example, you can organise social events where you get together outside of work or during worktime to do something fun. In addition to this, you should thank your staff for their hard work and, rather than criticise their failures or mistakes, offer constructive feedback.
Hot Tip: Holding regular catchup meetings with your staff will encourage an open dialogue and help you pinpoint any issues effecting their job satisfaction.
- Overseas travel
Overseas travel might seem like a pointless undertaking for a small startup firm, but there are many business benefits to be reaped.
For starters, it provides ample opportunities for networking. You can meet people in the airport, on the plane, at your hotel and at business conferences and meetings – the more you mingle, the more likely you are to find people who can have a meaningful impact on your business.
Furthermore, it’s also a great opportunity to identify new and emerging trends within your industry and capitalise on these back in the UK before your competitors do.
Hot Tip: If you’re driving to the airport, use Looking4.com to find airport parking deals for Stansted and other major UK hubs.
With these three terrific tips to hand, you’ll be nicely positioned for startup success – you’re welcome!