June 11, 2025
Article by Marty Sammut When I first opened the doors back in 1998, I wasn’t thinking about how to survive the next two and a half decades. Like most small business owners, I was focused on helping clients and keeping the lights on. Fast forward to today and I’ve learned a few things about what it takes to build a business that stands the test of time! 1. A Willingness to Accept Change Change is inevitable. I’ve seen it over and over, in the economy, technology, and client needs. Treat change as an opportunity rather than a negative. Don’t forget: your competitors are also dealing with it. The real advantage goes to whoever reacts fastest to find a solution. 2. Be Comfortable with Feeling Uncomfortable Dealing with challenges or the hard things normally makes the biggest difference. In fact, when you’re feeling uncomfortable or challenged, that’s usually when you’re making real progress. It’s not always easy, but it’s the sign you’re moving forward. 3. Scale Your Business by Employing and Building Systems Most business owners have their earning potential capped by the effort they put in. The only way to earn without personal exertion is to employ good people and put in place repeatable systems. Without systems, you’re just stuck on the tools forever - no matter how good you are. 4. Business Owners Need to Invest in Themselves Most of us start a business because we’re good at what we do - the technical side of things. But that doesn’t mean we have the skills to be a great entrepreneur. The only way to get there is to invest in learning. Find a mentor, go to industry training days, read leadership books, join the local Chamber of Commerce or work with an accountant who goes beyond the numbers and helps you think like an entrepreneur. Yes, it will cost you time and money - but it’s the best investment you’ll ever make. 5. Build a Business That’s Client-Focused Remember, your services and products are there to satisfy your client, not yourself or your team. Great client satisfaction and engagement are the key to business success. If you keep that front of mind, the rest has a way of falling into place. After over 25 years in business, I can tell you this: there’s no magic formula, and no two journeys look the same. But these five things have kept me grounded, focused and, most importantly, always moving forward. Here’s to another 25! Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure that the content is accurate and up to date, the advice and information provided on this site should not be construed as a substitute for consulting with a qualified accounting or tax professional. The authors and contributors to this blog do not accept any responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content, or for any losses or damages arising from the use of the information provided.
