Step Three - Measure Twice, Cut Once

Measure twice, cut once. In step one, you gained control of your current operations. In step two you determined which of the services you provide you do best. In step three you need to look at the different ways you can speed up the expansion of your business besides having the "Best Operations". Some of the tied and true methods are:

• Buy out you competition. This is usually profitable when the competition lacks good operational controls and is willing to part with the business at a "reasonable" price.

• Focused marketing efforts. This is the selection of a group of potential customers that could you your service and try various methods, i.e., mailing, phone calls, co-marketing

• Outside sales. This is when you hire a person who job is to sell your services.

• Ask your customers. Look at where what services your customers are asking for and develop a special service to meet there demand. An example is an extra special unit that is color coordinated with mirrors, hand towels, etc. for special occasions, i.e., wedding, etc.