You know that positive thinking by itself won’t build a successful business. But combine the right mindset with a willingness to do just 1 per cent more than everyone else, and you’ve got a serious competitive advantage.
It may seem early to think about your goals for 2027; however, getting a head start now might be the edge that sets you apart. Here are seven ways to begin:
1. Eliminate the service problem
Every business has one. Maybe customers aren’t greeted consistently. Maybe returns are more complicated than they need to be. Maybe associates forget to follow up. Whatever it is, you already know.
Ask your staff where they think you’re dropping the ball. Then dedicate an entire staff meeting to solve that one issue.
One weak link can undo dozens of great customer experiences. Customers tend to remember the one thing that went wrong far longer than the ninety-nine things that went right. Fix it and then move on to the next improvement.
2. Build a stronger network
Every trade show introduces you to smart, successful people who face many of the same challenges you do. Then everyone goes home and loses touch until next year. Don’t let that happen.
Whatever challenge you’re facing – staffing, inventory, marketing, merchandising – someone in your network has probably already solved it.
Exchange contact information. Schedule a quarterly call. Stay connected through email, text, or Zoom. Learn from each other’s successes and mistakes instead of reinventing the wheel. And don’t stop there.
Network locally with other independent retailers. Even if you sell completely different products, you share many of the same business challenges. You’ll exchange ideas, vendor recommendations, and marketing strategies that can benefit everyone.
3. Become your community’s expert
Who knows your business better than you? Share that expertise!
Create a professional one-page bio with a great photo and send/email it to local newspapers, radio stations, television producers, podcasts, influencers, and online publications. Let them know you’re available whenever they need an expert source. Then follow up.
Media outlets are always looking for knowledgeable people who can explain trends, offer advice, or comment on industry news. Make sure they know your name before they need you.
4. Attend the trade shows that matter
Trade shows remain one of the fastest ways to discover new products, new ideas, and new opportunities. Choose the events that will have the biggest impact on your business and put them on your calendar now.
While you’re there, attend educational sessions, walk the show floor with purpose, and spend time networking after hours. The greatest return on your investment often comes from the conversations you didn’t plan to have.
5. Give back to your community
Supporting local organisations isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also good business.
Customers love supporting businesses that support the communities they live in.
Find a cause that aligns with your values and commit to making a difference. Whether it’s raising money, donating products, volunteering, or hosting community events, your efforts build goodwill that no advertising campaign can buy.
6. Invest in your image
Image management is simply another name for making sure people know who you are and what you do. Don’t be shy – share your successes.
Send press releases when you host events, win awards, support charities, attend industry conferences, or launch new initiatives. Include photos and videos. Local media outlets are always looking for compelling images to accompany community stories. Just remember to make it news, not an advertisement.
7. Accept help when it’s offered
Think about the supplier who offered advice, the customer who volunteered to help, the industry expert who invited you to call. How many times have you politely thanked them and never followed up?
Some of the best business breakthroughs happen because someone asked for help.
Every article I write and every presentation I deliver includes an invitation to reach out for a complimentary conversation. Surprisingly, very few people do. But the ones who call almost always say the same thing afterwards: “I wish I’d done this sooner.” Those are the people willing to do that extra 1 per cent and it shows.
So, grab another cup of coffee and spend a few quiet minutes making a list of everything you’d like to accomplish. Write it down!
Dreams floating around in your head are just wishes. Dreams written on paper become goals. Will the second half of 2026 be your best yet? There’s only one way to find out. Start today!
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