When a business is struggling, or at best, just treading water, all the nickel & dime operating expenses seem like virtual mountains. When the business is thriving, they're just one more step in the bigger picture. As you go along, there will always be new expenses and old ones that appear out of nowhere. Having a strong customer base, being dedicated to the work ethic required, and keeping overhead down are keys to success.
Nothing succeeds like success.
My mowing business is doing very well. That said, I'm NOT looking at it as if I have it made. Keep digging. Keep the nose to the grindstone. Don't become complacent. ANY business can make it. ANY business can fail. I'm of the belief that a really good businessman can make it in spite of bad times, possibly more so than "making it" in GOOD times. Stay lean. Stay dedicated.
If I have a "trick", it's good time management. I try hard to make certain that as many as possible of the hours my crews are on the clock are billable hours. (OR, income generating hours in the case of contracted work) Treading water won't feed the bulldog.
Low prices are extremely attractive in this day and age. It's a giant misconception that most customers care so much about how shiney your equipment is, how "GQ" your uniforms are, or how spectacular your website is. You're moving dirt, or mowing weeds, or whatever your bailywick is, NOT trying to impress the guys at the country club. Nice dependable, efficient equipment is a good thing. The latest and greatest high tech equipment is simply an extravagence in many cases. If you're rolling in cash, go for it. If you're trying to create an image, go for all the bells and whistles. If you're trying to establish a strong, successful business that's in it for the long haul, concentrating on "image" can be a giant buzz kill.
JMHO, and worth just about what it cost you.
