How to keep your small business up and running

Once you have started your small business, you may think that you are through the worst of the challenges. The reality is that while it can be a big challenge to get your business up and running, once you establish your business (and you have a steady customer base), you are always subject to having challenges. Just running your small business on a day-to-day basis, can mean you will be faced with an assortment of challenges. You may be wondering how you can make sure your small business is going to last through the years. The good news is that despite the fact that there are no "sure things" in business, there are steps you can take that will help insure the long-term survival of your small business. Here is what you need to know about how to keep your small business up and running-

• Know the reasons that small businesses fail-Studies have shown that the large majority of small businesses that fail,do so because they overextend themselves. Rapid expansion is a common problem,for small business owners as they often feel that they have the customer base and the financing to expand rapidly. You should be weary of rapid expansion,as it could bring about the downfall of your business. Another reason that many small businesses fail is the lack of experience, by their owners. This happens because so many small business owners are in charge of setting their own hours,and owning accountability to their business, it can be hard for some people to stick to the dedication and time, it takes to run a small business. It seems as though anyone can start up a small business, and they do. However, it is crucial that you understand that demands, pitfalls and commitment it will take, for you to start your own small business, before you actually do. The most successful small business owners have taken the time to do extensive research and study, before they even write a business plan. Finally one of the biggest problems, for many small businesses is a lack of marketing. To many small business owners feel that they cannot afford marketing, when the reality is if you are not working hard to get attention,and to get your small business noticed, people will not be able to even know your business exists and it won't be long before you find yourself out of business.
• Tackle the hurdles-Now that you know the reasons that many small businesses fail, it is important to tackle the challenges that will prevent these problems. If you have your finances under control, know your market and the demands of your business, then it is time to put together a marketing plan. Again, this is another area where careful research and planning, will pay off. A lot of small businesses do not know how to market their business,or they spend money incorrectly, it can leave you with a mound of debt without the customer-base to pay it off. It is crucial to find the leads on how to market your company. You must be able to place your marketing where your potential customers are, or it is just a waste of both time and money. Here are some places to start-

1. Social media sites. Social media sites can provide you with a chance to gain information about the buying patterns of your customers. You will be able to learn about the type of products they want to purchase and what you can do to improve your services. The great part about social media is that it is free; it just takes time to set up a strong social media marketing campaign. 2. Newsletters-These are especially effective when they are sent via email. Newsletters provide you with a chance to strengthen your relationships with your customers. 3. Open houses-A free seminar or demonstration can give your potential customers a chance to come into your store and see what you are all about. Just make sure that you are able to get the word out, via email, flyer or direct mail.