RAISE THE ROOF

1. Stand out from the crowd. If you’re in a highly competitive field, innovation is a way to differentiate yourself and stand out from the crowd. Get ahead of industry trends by monitoring the competitive landscape, follow trade publications, and consider leveraging relationships with your suppliers and clients to gain key insights.

2. Recognize that business is about more than financial reward. Profits are important when it comes to running a business, but there’s more to a great business than just that. Philanthropy does not need to be limited to large corporations. There are many ways that businesses of all sizes can give back and social responsibility can contribute to long-term success.

3. Attract and retain great employees. Attracting bright, creative, committed employees and retaining them are important parts of managing a successful business. Employees can be your greatest assets and, as a business owner, you can demonstrate your commitment to them in a combination of ways, including providing financial, health, and career benefits.