Small Business

by Ian M. Berkowitz

As you read this article the wonderful people of Iowa are making a contribution to the 2008 presidential primary.

For the last 12 months or so, candidates have set up massive organizations, employed thousands of people and recruited an equal number of volunteers to make a case for candidacy. When the primary is decided and all votes are counted, the campaigns race on to the next big state leaving Iowa and the Iowans mere memories of the past.

Just like in campaigns, you as a business owner are out in the business world pitching your products and services to earn a new client, customer, or make a sale. When the business part is over, do you ever say thank you? Do you think that the candidates say thank you to all of the supporters who have worked long and hard to get the campaign message out?

The art of saying thank you in business is by far one of the most important parts of your success in business. All of our businesses depend on people, places and things to function and move forward each and every day. For those of you who believe otherwise, you are sorely mistaken.

Feeling Appreciated

All successful companies know that it is extremely important to recruit and retain employees in order to build upon accomplishments each and every day. There are various types of benefits, programs and incentives that companies use to keep employees loyal, dedicated and feeling appreciated for contributions to the overall success of the company.

If you sell products then you are most probably reliant on manufacturers, suppliers and wholesalers who provide you with inventory and merchandise. job is to get you the quantity and models of product you need, when you need it and guarantee that it gets to you in perfect condition. How important is that to your business? A thank-you must be a part of your overall business plan.

Now you might be asking, what you can do to properly express and manifest your appreciation for others? Certainly many of you can plan holiday parties or give holiday gifts to those that helped you throughout the year. You might also award financial bonuses to your employees for contributions to the company. You can give out gift certificates, tickets to a show or a movie; bring in breakfast and lunch for a week to the office or even institute a daily benefit such as adding a coffee maker with flavored coffee for the staff to enjoy.

For individuals that contribute to your business success, invite them out for lunch, dinner or even a local sporting event. These types of things don’t need to just happen once a year but should be done often to reinforce your true intentions.

Ian M. Berkowitz is a former attorney/advisor with the United States Small Business Administration in Washington D.C. During his tenure with the Federal Government he specifically worked in the areas of disaster relief for homeowners and businesses and government contracting. He is currently a practicing business and real estate attorney in Boca Raton. In addition to his law degree, Ian also holds a Masters Degree in Government from The Johns Hopkins University.