Three Things to Grow Your Business (and Your Life)

In today's climate, it does not pay to be a jerk. In fact, the most successful business owners recognize that people are what runs and sustains a business, and the Golden Rule applies more than ever before. Here are three things you can do to grow your business, and all it takes is a new way of thinking.

1. Connect: Find ways to connect on an emotional level with your customers, suppliers, prospects and employees. It's a fact that people do more business with people who they like, and the best way to be likeable is to find lots of things that you like about others.

2. Think: Consider the multiple options before diving into a business decision. There is always more than one path ... in fact, there are usually hundreds of routes that will take you where you need to go. Some are just faster than others. Avoid people who try to take away your thought process by telling you there is one single thing that you MUST do to grow. Usually they have an agenda and are trying to sell you something that you may not need.

3. Thank: Sales move 90% faster when they come through a referral. There is almost no limit to the number of referrals you can generate for your business ...as long as you are always thankful when they are received. Call anyone who refers business to you immediately, and send an e-mail, card, or even candy if appropriate to follow up. Do whatever it takes to encourage the people who tell others about your business to do it more often.