Hey Buddy, Gotta Match?

Everyone is searching for answers on how to have their business succeed in a down economy.
Many feel that business has changed, but in reality the economic challenge has forced business people to improve their skills and refine their approach.

When I talk with other business owner searching for the Holy Grail to sell in this economy, I start with a very basic question. "What is your job as a business owner?" Usually, that question is met with silence for a moment; and then I'm peppered by a plethora of descriptions.

I'm always amazed at the description variance for the same role. How can a business owner be successful if they can't clearly define their role?

This exercise is followed by another question.

"Would it be worth the price of admission if I could provide you with a one-word job description that provides you with a level of focus that you have never had before? You will wake up every morning and say, "I know exactly what my job is!"

As you can imagine, this offer is always met with a warm reception.

To help paint this picture, I ask the business owners to picture the two sides of Velcro, one side being the cotton side and the other being the hook side. Imagine each side represents a business entity. One your business and the other your customers.

Still with me? Good.

Think about it. There is no other part to the success equation. Thus, the fundamental job of the business owner is to put these two entities together. The one-word job description is to be the matchmaker.

The matchmaker business owner works with these two entities with the goal of bringing them together. To successfully do this, the matchmaker needs to master both sides of the equation.

Your business and your customer.