Always listen to your customers. They will tell you where you need to improve things. Be sure to let them know that you understand and that you value their opinions. Try to look at a customer complaint as a way to learn how to increase value of your products and services.

Make yourself totally available to your clients and customers. Supply them type of support that you want when you have a problem with something you have purchased. Waste no time responding to your clients. Be certain to find an agreeable solution as quickly as possible and let your clients know that their satisfaction is your highest priority.

When a client or customer is totally dissatisfied with your product or service refund their money with a smile. Tell them you are sorry and that you would like to know exactly why they weren't satisfied. Keep in mind that... "the customer is always right" even if you don't agree.

* Online Aspects *

Your Website should look professionally designed, include complete product & service descriptions and an easy yet secure way to order online. You should include complete contact information (including your phone number) on every page of your website --- or at least a link to it.

Be polite and courteous to other website owners. Always acknowledge others legitimate business (not spam) requests, even if you are not interested.

In doing business, on Internet or in real world you should always remember that you want to build bridges, not destroy them. Do your best in all aspects and your business should grow and prosper.

2. The Market

Who are your customers? Why are they customers? What motivates your customers? What need are you filling for these customers? How will you motivate them to buy from you? How will you find and attract these customers? Who is your competition? What advantage do you have over your competition? How will you position yourself to win market share? Do you have technical data, surveys, or information sources to back up your claims?

3. Finances

How much money are you bringing to your business? What are your start-up costs? How will money be used? When will your business become profitable? What are your financial projections for next five years?

ELEMENTS OF A BUSINESS PLAN

Here are key elements to include in your business plan. Keep in mind that your business plan is unique to your business, so don't be afraid to beef things up as needed.

Executive Summary - This is a summation of important points within your business plan. It should not be over three pages long. This summary is of particular interest to potential investors in your business, and allows them decide if you are a worthy investment vehicle.

Company Summary - Describes your business, customer focus, and your goals. Includes things such as your business structure, start-up projections, and business location.

Products and Services - Describes what you have to offer, its advantage to customer, your reasoning for need of your product or service, and a look into your place among competition.

Market Analysis - Details who, what, where, why, and how of your market. Includes analysis of your industry and your strengths therein.

Marketing and Sales Strategies - Key to this section is your plan to operate in a competitive environment. Sales forecasts and marketing details give an in-depth look at actual customer acquisition.

Operations and Management - Fully details structure and operation of your organization.

Financial Plan - Provides a comprehensive look at business cash flow, profit and loss, break-even analysis, and other financial indicators.

In conclusion, your business is less likely to fail if you are able to predict outcomes. Your business plan sets realistic goals for success. The above information serves as a general map. You fill in details - as many as are needed. Most assuredly, your efforts will be rewarded for years to come.