Amy Porterfield, author of “Two Weeks Notice,” says if you are a new boss, it can be difficult when you must start thinking like a boss, according to inc.com. When Porterfield started her own business, she struggled with “boss traps” that could have derailed her company.
Porterfield shares some of the following big issues new bosses can face.
- Treating customers like they are your boss. Excellent customer service is key to success, but it also is crucial you do not give customers decision-making power over your company. Allowing customers to make all the decisions and not setting boundaries can breed resentment and ultimately damage your relationships with customers. Decide what your boundaries will be and communicate them clearly to the customer. If a special situation comes up and you make a one-time exception, they will believe they are receiving excellent service.
- Believing you are not smart enough to do it alone. The desire for external validation can lead to business owners taking on a partner when it may not be the best route. Although partners can bring new ideas and help the business grow, it is important you and your partner have the same goals for the business and you do not treat yourself as your partner’s employee. Trusting yourself and your abilities is important.
- Believing you need to do everything yourself. As your business grows, you need to invest in support. Some of your first hires could include an assistant to help with time-consuming administrative tasks and a marketing project manager to help convert leads into customers. Let your business needs dictate the roles you should fill.
