Forget New Year’s Resolutions, Embrace These Habits to Grow Your Business

Imagine strolling down a bustling London Street, your eyes drawn to a charming bakery nestled between a bookshop and a vintage clothing store. This isn’t your typical chain establishment. The aroma of freshly baked bread spills onto the pavement, enticing passers-by like yourself. Behind the counter, the owner, Emma, beams with pride as customers rave about her sourdough.

But beneath the charm and bustle lies a reality shared by all UK small businesses: the constant hustle, the tightrope walk between passion and profit, and the relentless quest for resilience. We all know a business like Emma’s.

So, what sets apart the Emma’s of the world, the ones who weather storms? Often, it’s not just hard work or a killer sourdough recipe (although those help!). It boils down to powerful habits that keep them agile, resilient, and obsessed with their customers. At this time of year, most people ditch their New Year’s resolutions; try these five habits instead.

Embrace data-driven decisions

Gone are the days of relying solely on gut instinct. A recent Federation of Small Businesses study found that 74% of UK businesses actively using data for marketing see higher customer engagement. Creating an analytics dashboard showing sales trends, customer behaviour, and retention rates. Data becomes your guiding compass, illuminating opportunities and steering you clear of dead ends.

Prioritise customer delight

UK retail is a bustling bazaar, making customer loyalty increasingly precious. A 2023 PwC report revealed that 56% of British consumers are willing to pay more for a top-notch customer experience. This goes beyond simply selling your product or service and extends outside retail too. Forge genuine connections, personalise interactions, and actively seek feedback. Turn your customers into cheerleaders, and watch your business grow through word-of-mouth magic.

Cultivate a culture of continuous learning

The business world is a whirlwind. A report by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy emphasises the importance of upskilling and reskilling for UK businesses to thrive in the digital age. Invest in your team’s professional development, encourage knowledge-sharing, and embrace a “growth mindset.” The more adaptable and resourceful your crew, the better equipped you are to navigate change and seize new opportunities. If you don’t have the knowledge in-house then outsource. Sometimes, the best way to grow is by letting go of what you or your team are not good at. We can help!

Master the art of delegation

A 2022 Harvard Business Review study found that effective delegation boosts both productivity and employee morale. Identify your team’s strengths, empower them to take ownership, and trust them to deliver. This frees you up to focus on the grand plan and ensures your business hums along even when you’re not at the helm.

Leverage tech to streamline operations

Ditch the mountains of paperwork and chasing invoices. There is technology available to drive efficiency and productivity for small businesses. Embrace tools to automate tasks, manage finances, and streamline workflows. Technology is your tireless assistant, freeing you to focus on what truly matters – connecting with customers and building your dream. If you’re not sure where to start, we should have a chat.

These five habits are not just principles; they are the seeds of success. By implementing them, you’ll watch your business grow. Let me know – are there any additional ones that you would add?