What is Your Business Talisman? Mine is My Bow Tie!

First, let’s start off by answering the question, “What is a talisman?”

A talisman is an object said to contain magical properties that draw good luck to the possessor. It’s also believed to embody a message of positivity and growth.

Working as a business engineering manager at Qualcomm for two decades, I rarely go for mystical remedies in the workplace. However, embracing the “talisman technique" has truly changed the game of being a business owner.

Now, you’re probably asking yourself, “What does this have to do with owning a small business?” Well, let me explain…

My talisman helps serve as a “mental hook.” This “mental hook” acts as a daily reminder to help keep me focused on the goals and purpose of my business. I too, need reminders and clarity from time to time.

As I’m sure many of you are aware, I’ve chosen my bow tie is my business talisman!

My goal at this point in life is to coach other businesses to adhere to their schedules, cut unnecessary business expenses, hire smart and pursue only the right markets.

I’ve INFIX’d my vision of the realities and dreams of my business into my bow ties. These unassuming pieces of fabric became my small business talisman because they represent:

Consistency: Every day one of the first things I do is tie my bow tie because I know that consistent habits demonstrate to your prospects that you are a reliable source for what they need. Even when I’m not feeling like assessing my financials or making those cold calls, my habit of doing so on a certain day and time keeps me on track. I have no excuses. It’s like making your bed, the first accomplishment of the day.  You begin how you mean to continue.

Differentiation: The fact that only a fraction of American men wear bow ties doesn’t intimidate me. I WANT to broadcast my unique business and mindset. Every small business must differentiate itself from competition. I am a colorful and friendly person. The businesses who want only a dull number cruncher shouldn’t use me. Let much of the market go: work with only sliver  you’re ideally equipped to serve.

Memorability: Someone I meet at a networking event may not remember my name or background, but there’s a good chance he or she will remember my bow tie. In fact, I get calls that start with, “You’re the bow tie guy. Right?” Recognition that my bow ties work as a mnemonic device is extremely satisfying. As a small business talisman, it also gives me a little boost as I walk into an unknown situation.

Persistence: Every day, I work hard to tie the perfect bow tie, which doesn't always come to fruition, this reminds me that many days for my clients (and me) will be imperfect. Not every day is a triumph. Operations and revenues can be going along smoothly when a key employee suddenly quits; a solid deal falls through and mother nature unleashes a hurricane. Bumps in the road are part of both business and life. Every day presents a new opportunity to get it right.

Self-Congratulation Upon Mastery: When I tie my bow tie with neat corners and smooth faces, I realize, I am a master! Owners who finally master a sales process or presentation should take the time to enjoy the moment. Relishing the times you got it just right feeds confidence and energy reserves. Battling for market share takes both.

A Networking Tool: Some businesses love the whole networking scene; others . . . not so much. My bow tie acts as an icebreaker, allowing others to approach me and ask why I’m wearing it. I get the chance to discuss all the reasons my bow tie is my talisman. This humanizes me and demonstrates how dedicated I am to providing excellent service.

A Symbol of Change: I left the best reminder for last. My bow ties help me remember the relentless fluidity of commerce, capitalism and entrepreneurialism. I change my bow ties depending on my mood, my clients’ moods and even the current feeling in society. When the “zeitgeist” or overall trends shift, business owners MUST shift with them. **HISTORY LESSON!** Many great business at the turn of the 20th century went bust by the 1920s because they tried to institutionalize their processes and strategies, rather than evolving them, and hence their competitors who adapted by constantly changing process and strategy overtook them. Companies like the sailing ship manufacturers didn’t embrace change that steam power brought and that ultimately killed them.

Business success takes support. Using a small business talisman or “mental hook,” in the way I use my bow ties, will help support your business principles and goals through a simple, streamlined symbol synonymous to your objectives as a business owner.

If anyone is in desperate need of a talisman, it’s the struggling small business owner who’s overcome endless challenges to bring unique products and services to underserved audiences.

What symbol can or do you use to help keep your business on track toward better profits and more streamlined operations?

If what symbolizes your business escapes you, let me help! I offer three, FREE, 60-minute in person or phone consultations each week. We can work together to determine whether you have:

• A capacity problem (too much work and not enough staff)

• A focus problem (trying to delivery everything to everyone)

• A revenue problem (margins too low and costs too high)

. . . or any one of a number of other problems small businesses just like yours struggle with! Feel free to call me at 949.484.6349 or send a quick note to inquiry@infix.us. I will get back to you right away!