Wikipedia defines self-awareness as “the capacity for introspection and the ability to reconcile oneself as an individual separate from the environment and other individuals.” Another way to say it might be the ability to face reality. How realistic are you with your strengths, and more importantly, your weaknesses (also known as growth areas!). Steve Tobak, a regular contributor to Inc.com., outlines seven signs to watch for while on your journey to greater self-awareness.
Archive for the ‘News’ Category
Self-Awareness 101
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, April 5, 2013
Everyday Words That Are Extraordinary
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, April 2, 2013
Thousands (maybe millions?) of books have been written regarding what to say when to your employees, colleagues, friends, and family. On top of books, there are online articles, blog posts, tweets – you name it. What words can take us from being an ordinary boss or spouse or friend to an extraordinary one? According to Jeff Haden, a regular contributor to Inc.com, the words we should say the most are incredibly simple. You’re welcome.
Where – and When – to Find Big Ideas
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, March 25, 2013
When you’re running your business, it’s not always easy to make time for planning, thinking, or strategizing. Yet those activities are critical to the success of your business. But how do you fit them into an already overtaxed schedule? Working longer days isn’t the answer. And scheduling the time into your day isn’t necessarily the route to take, either. So where and when can you find the time to think big? Here are some ideas from Inc. … perhaps finding that sought-after “thinking” time isn’t so hard after all.
Think Twice: Family and Friends as Business Partners
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, March 8, 2013
We’ve all heard horror stories of what can happen when family or friendship is mixed with business. Undoubtedly the people involved in those tales thought, “But that would never happen to us.” Are your family and friends good prospective business partners? Should you run as fast as you can in the opposite direction? Jane Porter, an associate editor at Entrepreneur.com, recently put together 10 questions to consider before bringing family and/or friends on board.
10 Business Tips from Top Bloggers
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, February 19, 2013
2013 is still relatively new, and there’s time yet to make changes to your business to make it better. Small Business Trends recently collected 10 business tips from 10 different bloggers. Some might be things you’re already doing; some might get you thinking. All have one thing in common: moving your business forward in 2013.
Uh-Oh: Messed Up Metrics
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, February 12, 2013
Most likely you have identified your business goals for 2013. What metrics are you using to measure success against those goals? Are they the right ones? What makes a metric the “right one”…what makes it meaningful? A recent article in Fast Company helps identify meaningful metrics and how to avoid metrics mistakes.
Warning: Don’t Grow Too Fast
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, February 6, 2013
There is much to be said for getting off the ground quickly when starting a small business. With sound growth strategies, companies can quickly move from small to “we have arrived”. But what about those companies that have everything going their way, yet suddenly they seem to quickly collapse? Perhaps it comes down to how they manage their growth. A recent post on OPEN Forum outlines seven challenges that can cause a business downfall.
Words to Motivate You
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, January 25, 2013
January is cruising right along. How are your resolutions? Still intact? Falling by the wayside? Maybe it’s not so much about doing that, starting this, or ending that as it is about a mindset. Are you guided? Are you inspired? Don’t know where to begin? Here’s a great start: a recent Inc. article by Geoffrey James shares his 12 motivational quotes for 2013. See which ones resonate with you. Check out the comments section for even more motivation. Find the words that work for you, and make them your mantra in making 2013 the best year yet!
Boosting Revenue: Trends to Learn From
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, January 21, 2013
The good news is tha
t small businesses did well this past holiday season, perhaps even better than expected. The even better news is that as a small business owner, you can learn from 2012 trends and take steps to boost revenue in 2013. A recent article in Small Business Trends identifies challenges, techniques, and solutions for making 2013 your best year yet.
Happy Holidays
Written By Alerus Small Business Connect, December 24, 2012
Happy Holidays from all of us at Alerus Financial. We wish you peace, joy, and laughter this holiday season.
