Running and owning a small business is no easy feat as I have discovered first-hand. These are a few things that I have picked up along the way. I hope you will find these four misconceptions handy in your quest to start and build your business.

I don’t need a website – Every business, regardless of size needs a web presence. Even if it is as basic as your company information,  products/services and  contact information. When I am looking for services or products the first place that I go, like many others, is the web. So even a basic free hosted site or blog will make the world of difference to your business.

Social media will not help my business - Social media is not for everyone and can be all consuming if you let it.  However, it is also a way to build and strengthen your community. Adding social media to your marketing plan is an excellent way to network and build unique relationships with people you would otherwise never meet. Start with a simple plan to participate and engage then go from there.

I know what I need so there is no need to update - When you stop learning, you and your business become stagnant. This gives your competition a huge leg up as they continue to build their knowledge and tweak their processes. There are so many free and inexpensive resources available to you today that there really is no reason to not update your skills. Find the one area where you lack and start there by looking for webinars, blogs, forums and even classes.

Etiquette is so passé - I really am passionate about this one. In these changing technology times we so often forget the basic etiquette that we were taught as a child. When you fail to practice common etiquette, you show that your time is more important than others. Start by putting that cell phone away while you are meeting with colleagues or even clients. And don’t forget a great handshake and simple introduction will leave a lasting impression.

What were common misconceptions that you have overcome while starting and growing your business? What steps did you take to tackle them head on?

All the best,

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Protocol Inc./The Polished Professional