11 Things Small Business Owners Can Learn From Punxsutawney Phil

1. Look Over Your Shoulder ? Of course, Punxsutawney Phil has to look over his to search for his shadow. You should, too, every so often, to check out your competition?and see whether they're gaining on (or leading) you.

2. Be Unique ? While groundhogs normally live six to eight years, legend says there is only one Phil, and he's been making predictions for more than 118 years. Think about why your small business stands out, and let the world know your special (and truthful) story.

3. Create An Event ? Folks gathering in Punxsutawney on Groundhog Day also enjoy the 2nd Annual Phil's "Anything Goes" Chili and Wings Cook-off, 7th Annual Woodchuck Whittle and Crowning of Little Mr. and Miss Groundhog. Find opportunities to celebrate with your customers and community.

4. Expand Your Offerings ? As you might guess, there are plenty of Phil collectibles for sale, including a Ty Beanie Red Tie version. Think of ways to capture more of your customers'/clients' business by providing more high-value products/services for them.

5. Be Resourceful ? The majority of "Groundhog Day" was shot 600 miles away in Woodstock, Illinois, because Punxsutawney didn't have an appropriate town square. Look for creative ways to find answers to your business challenges.

6. Think Small ? Punxsutawney is a community that maintains its small-town lifestyle. Remember to always treat your clients/customers like you live in their neighborhoods.

7. Act Big ? Over the years, Phil met President Reagan, appeared on Oprah and gave his prediction on the big screen in Times Square. Just because you're a small business doesn't mean you have to act like one.

8. Spread The Word ? In 1887, the editor of the local paper proclaimed Phil the one and only official weather prognosticating groundhog, and newspapers from around the globe soon began reporting his predictions. Be sure to let the media know what exciting things you're doing.

9. Involve Your Whole Team ? The Groundhog Club Inner Circle, which carries on the tradition of Phil ? including taking care of him and planning events ? consists of local dignitaries. Invite all of your employees to share with you in setting and achieving goals for your small business.

10. Have Fun ? Think about it?all these people paying attention to a groundhog? Remember to find moments to celebrate, laugh and enjoy the good things in your life.

11. Get Plenty Of Rest ? While hibernating in winter isn't an option, take advantage of opportunities to rejuvenate. It will make you more effective in the long run.

Copyright © 2005 by Success Handler, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Coach, David Handler, is the founder of Success Handler, (http://www.successhandler.com), and specializes in helping small business leaders find clarity and take action. He understands the challenges of running a business, because he's been there ? as a small business owner, franchisee, franchisor, corporate leader and trainer. Much like sports coaches, his coaching will show you how to compete on a level playing field in your industry.

---

How to Start a Pet Transportation Business

Pet Transportation Services are needed as the number of pets... Read More

Tracking Revenue For MORE Profits

The revenue history is a vital piece of your power... Read More

Mobile Car Wash Market Opportunities in California

The current lack of industry leaders represents an exceptional opportunity... Read More

Creating a Paperless Office

When working from home, it is usual to find that... Read More

Expanding A Mobile Car Wash Business

What is the best time to expand a mobile car... Read More

1 Overlooked Key to Small Business Success

Is this you?You dreamed of owning your own business, doing... Read More

What is Business Process Automation?

Business Process Automation or BPA for short. This was a... Read More

Most Franchises Are Small Home Businesses

Many of our nations 400,000 franchisees run their businesses out... Read More

Small Business - A Thing Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Badly

A thing worth doing is worth doing badly. Yes I... Read More

Racing the Competition

What is the Big Race all about when it comes... Read More

S Corporation ? What Is It?

For many small businesses, the "S" corporation is the business... Read More

Genius Time? It Matters

I frequently give presentations at small business gatherings, providing me... Read More

How To Start A Blind Cleaning Business Quickly And Easily

Starting the blind cleaning business is one of the best... Read More

How to let go of your EGO

When does your ego get in the way?Let's go back... Read More

Lack of Vigilance Can Harm the Bottom Line

The easiest way to lift profits is to cut the... Read More

Mobile Detailing Environmental Concern in the Deep South

Macon, GA goes after garage-gas station conversion detail/hand car washes... Read More

Incorporating a Small Business: S corporations versus C corporations

If you've been considering incorporating your small business, you've probably... Read More

Three Small Business Secrets to Getting More Billable Time

As small business owners we're in business to make money... Read More

Write An Effective Job Proposal

I am simply amazed at the problems some of my... Read More

Bad Regulators Cost Small Businesses

When a regulator finds a target to go after to... Read More

10 Filler Activities for the Summer Business Slowdown

Summer is a time for the outdoors, for that well-deserved... Read More

Small Business Marketing, According to Seinfeld

What could Seinfeld possibly have to do with marketing a... Read More

Grants vs. Contracts

Commonly folks have asked me what the technical difference is... Read More

5 Tips for Hiring a GREAT Bookkeeper

Bookkeeping?the "dreaded" word is something we all have to worry... Read More

From Birth to Death

Your product is dying. With the same inevitability that we... Read More

Women and Small Business

In the book Women and Small Business author gives all... Read More

Business Valuation is Critical

What is Business Valuation? The term business valuation is the... Read More

The Hidden Treasure in Your Business

I started working with another new client last week. He... Read More

Preparing to Launch Your Small Business

Small business owners often enter their field with great expectations.... Read More

Five Facts and One Motivating Factor Behind a Successful Home Business

All legitimate home business entrepreneurs insist and announce loud and... Read More

Procrastinate Your Way To A Successful Small Business

What will your business look like a year from today?If... Read More

Starting A Concrete Cleaning Pressure Washer Business

Concrete cleaning can be a lucrative business to start. Here... Read More

Mobile Pressure Washing and City Contracts

Many mobile pressure-washing companies turn to government contacts to make... Read More