20 Things I Wish I Knew About the Habits of Successful Business Owners

1. Success in business is heavily connected to your willingness and ability to identify and change things that aren’t working.

2. Know the power of networks and what they can do for your business. Local networks of similar businesses, social networks, and client networks (referrals) can make or break a business.

3. Success requires an unwavering commitment to customer service.

4. Awareness of your strengths and weaknesses is essential.

5. Problems should be viewed as opportunities for your business to grow. Looking at problems with a positive attitude is a big step toward a successful business.

6. Always be searching for a way to be more productive, better organizing, scheduling and remembering that time truly is money when you work for yourself will help you be more productive and more successful.

7. A successful business owner balances life and work. Setting aside time to work and time to be with your spouse, kids, or time for yourself will make you more productive and more successful (and most importantly – more happy!)

8. The right attitude will give you an edge over your competition.

9. Be flexible, except with your core values when it comes to business policies.

10. As photographers we often work alone. Recognize that your most valuable company asset isn’t your fancy equipment or talent, it’s you. Keep up on your health and make sure you always take care of yourself.

11. Believe in yourself.

12. Admit your mistakes, encourage criticism and accept it gracefully.

13. Maintain a strong work ethic. If you respect what you do, so will your clients!

14. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and try something new.

15. Run an honest business. Photography clients are drawn to honesty. Deceptive advertising is not a trait of a successful business.

16. Instead of spending your time worrying about your competition, focus on you. Time well spent is a business investment.

17. Be a small business, but always think big. Look at the big picture for your clients and yourself.

18. Put yourself in your clients shoes. Always consider what they would think about your interactions, correspondence and time with them.

19. First impressions always count when it comes to business.

20. Understand the power of planning. Plan for failure with your business and you’ll always be prepared for the worst and will be more likely to succeed!

Carrie Swails Photography

Are you looking for a mentor with your photography business? We have workshops as well as one-on-one mentoring in The Shop. I love teaching and working with other photographers to help develop your businesses and help you achieve success!