Harmonious Notes for our Business Community

Post #15

As readers may know, my husband and I are very involved in the world of folk and acoustic music.  Just back from a regional conference where we saw performers from the entire Northeast and beyond, I was musing about what makes for the “whole package” for me.  I came up with four criteria: a great voice; strong musical ability (guitar usually); interesting and compelling lyrics; and a warm and engaging presence on stage.

In the same way, I've wondered what the right 'recipe' is for successful businesses.  As I campaign and talk to owners of businesses of all sizes, I hear a combination of optimism and fears.  Some are struggling mightily in these difficult economic times.  Others are doing just fine and talk about significant upticks in their client load in recent months.  In a way, there is a similar need for the entire package in order to be successful. 

A business must offer a good or service that is needed and high-quality.  Their customer service must be responsive, and their presence on the community stage must be visible and memorable.

Like performers, there is also a need for active networking, influential mentors, and plain old luck.  Outside judges like those evaluating songwriting competitions help launch performers just as government or venture capital funding add credibility and expansion potential to businesses.

While there are obviously countless differences between these two communities, there is much they might learn from each other.  Artists need to market themselves, take risks, and be sure their work is the very best quality they can create.  Businesses, on the other hand, can learn something about creativity, collaborating with others, and spreading joy.   In a tight economy, we should work to support both of these vitally important sectors to be sure they continue to make our world a better place to live.

I would love to hear from you, dear Blog reader!  What makes you choose which businesses you patronize?  Are there things they could be doing in these tough times?  Send an email to Blog@CherylKagan.org or click on the "Comments" link below to express your views.  Please be sure to indicate which post (#15) you're addressing.

Thanks for reading.  I will post again soon.