5 things I’ve learned running my business: Ann Bhatti, Connect Derby Business Centres

The manager of Connect Derby Business Centres, Ann Bhatti, tells us what she knows about running her own organisation.

1. Invest in your people

Your staff are your biggest asset and will play the key role in growing your business, so it’s important to create and maintain excellent relationships with them.

Be prepared to listen to their views and take their input on board because when it comes down to it, you’re a team! Colleagues that feel involved and valued will be more invested in the business and do their best work. Communication is key and you should always keep your team in the loop.

Spending time with your colleagues outside of work will also allow you to get to know each other and, in turn, will create a more relaxed vibe in the office, particularly if you’re a small team.

2. Know your competitors

Make sure you know your competitors too – ensuring that their weaknesses are your strengths will make sure you’re ahead of the game, so be willing to get out there and do your research!

It might be time consuming, but it’ll give you a significant advantage and keep you up-to-date with everything that’s happening in your sector.

3. Remember the four Ps!

Remember the original four Ps of the marketing mix! Make sure your product, price, place and promotion are in sync at all times if you want to achieve early success.

If you’re stuck, do some research, or speak to a local business advisor – Connect Derby has a team of advisors, who can help point you in the right direction,

4. Prioritise the needs of your customers

Whatever sector you’re operating in, you need to make sure you understand your market, prioritise the needs of your customers and be flexible enough to deliver whatever is required.

This means making sure you know who your customer is, what they want and what you can deliver. It sounds obvious, but so many businesses deliver what they think their clients want, without ever asking them.

5. Make mindful decisions

As much as you’d like to, you’re never going to please everyone, so always make a decision that pleases the majority.

Take your team’s comments on-board and make sure you see things from a range of perspectives, but always make decisions that are going to benefit the many rather than the few – which might sometimes mean having to leave your own opinions on the shelf!