How To Launch A Business Without Losing Your Goddamn Mind: Pt 6: All The Random Shit
In the 6th and final part of our “How To Launch A Business Without Losing Your Goddamn Mind” series, we are diving into all the random shit no one tells you about owning your own business.
Recap:
You have to launch your business with the assumption that it’s going to be a huge success.
Scenario #1: You grow faster than expected and can't keep up
Overstock in your inventory
Have conversations with your suppliers and production facilities so you can set expectations for rushed orders etc.
If your supplier is unpredictable, communicate that with your audience and reframe your launch schedule as “drops” as opposed to consistent availability.
Scenario #2: Your supply chain gets messed up
Have established relationships with your backup plan.
You want to be first in line because when other businesses are scrambling to get their products made in the middle of an emergency like you are, resources are limited.
Scenario #3: You get a negative customer review
Respond and respond quickly.
Don’t get defensive.
Even if you feel like an apology isn’t warranted, this is your opportunity to show who you are as a business owner and what your values are.
Don’t forget that screenshots are a thing!
Not every fight is your fight and in the end what good is it going to do if you unload on a negative review.
Scenario #4: You have a high maintenance customer
Contracts and setting expectations are your best friend.
Keep everything in writing that you can use to refer back to should you need to.
They’re looking for validation. Apologize and recognize
Scenario #5: You decide you don't want to run your business anymore
Start documenting your processes and procedures from the get-go.
It’s fine to outgrow your business
You can’t see all into the future, situations change. Don’t get down on yourself for wanting to make a change, but leverage it into a new opportunity, don’t just ditch it.
Proactivity is the name of the game