How business development is different for small companies

Whether new to the world of entrepreneurship or managing existing companies, the goal for any business owner is growth. This ability to change and expand brings myriad opportunities, often beyond initial goals or expectations. Here, we explore how small businesses develop, and how this growth differs from their larger counterparts.

Small businesses have mighty advantages when it comes to development.

What's the difference with small business development?

The main difference between the development of small businesses and those larger are time and resources. In most cases, small businesses have the advantage of having relatively short chains of command. This means that decisions aren't needed to be approved by many different departments, making for shorter approval processes. On the other hand, large businesses have the means to fast-track key stages of development such as purchasing new assets for production as they have the capital to do so. Furthermore, having both the financial upper-hand and the backing of experience and knowledge means that larger businesses will know exactly what to look for and actions to take for developing their venture.

Small businesses aren't always left in the lurch, however – especially with an expert accountant onboard. These financial professionals are perfect in predicting and paving the path your business should take for success, as well as preparing for the worst case scenario. Where development is concerned, a small business owner and an accountant make for an unstoppable team for growth, granted you start your venture off on the right foot.

Know your market

One of the key starting points of any business is defining your target audience. Like your customers, however, the needs of your business changes over time too. Before you dive into developing your business further, it may be high time to reevaluate your target demographic, ensuring your branding, products, and marketing efforts are meeting their wants and expectations.

Part of this may include carrying out a survey from your loyal customers, or deriving insights from your social media engagement. What are people talking about? Use this information to your advantage in figuring out what to implement in your next stage of development.

It's not what you know, it's who you know – take advantage of networking opportunities.

Attend networking events

They say it's not what you know, it's who you know – small business development is no exception. In fact, one of the most important tools in a small business owners' belt is their list of contacts. Not only does this get your business out there in terms of collaboration and potential traders, but you can tap into valuable insights and advice from those who have experience behind them.

Plan for the future

The very nature of running a small business means that there are many highs and lows to navigate. With the help of an expert accountant, you can prepare for such scenarios. From forecasting trends to establishing a budget for the foreseeable future, an accountant helps in informed-decision making so your business not only stays afloat, but powerfully swims towards your ultimate goals.

Here's where Wilson Porter is the perfect partner. Together, we'll strategically plan the next steps in your business development, identifying the best path to take in achieving your key objectives. For more information on how our team can help develop your small business, get in touch with our team for a friendly consultation.