Don't be fooled to think that in 2013 you have time to waste. Everyone is now faster, smarter, better - all with extraordinary tools at their disposal.
Embarking on global expansion has been the most fascinating experience and in particular, working in what is one of America's most untapped entrepreneurial hubs of Atlanta has not only been rewarding, but also very invigorating.
Atlanta isn't the sleepy town that some of the cities counterparts seem to think it is. In fact, it is quite the opposite. The city is full of promise, spirit and an attitude that is less ruthless than say New York, Chicago, San Francisco or Los Angeles. Behind the politeness and accomodating attitudes of Atlanta's business folk are smart, determined, ambitious and thoroughly capable people who drive small businesses in an endeavour to become big businesses.
Capitalizing on an ability to cap salaries and deliver products and services to a national and international audience with America's most proficient transport hub at its disposal, Atlanta entrepeneurs are dreaming big. You heard it right - they are dreaming big. Not too dissimilar to their New York small business friends who have inspired a national through a carefully executed tabloid and magazine advertising campaign that let's the world know that in New York "This is no place to dream small."
What strikes me about the people of Atlanta is their attitude to helping others and in turn, helping themselves. It seems that those who don't come from here, tend to be the one's to watch, whereas if you do business with a true Atlanta local, you are guaranteed that the good old fashion handshake on a deal is exactly that.
Today I had lunch with two talented mergers and acquisition partners at Deloitte. They both are very busy people but were kind enough to take time out of their day to have a chat about business, tax and the run of the land in setting up in Atlanta, buying a home and a motor vehicle.
I walked away feeling chuffed that I had met both of these people who are generous with their time and advice.
No doubt, it will ensure that Deloitte is a brand that I trust and am happy to refer time and time again as I embark on meeting local and international business people.
This week has been hectic and we have "hit the road running" organizing marketing, offices, staffing, legals, accounting and alike. While I may be suffering from a bit of jet lag, I am not suffering from a lack of enthusiasm and desire to achieve my goals.
Here's how I "hit the road running" with business and marketing in Atlanta this week:
- Health: It is impossible to work at your full capacity without a good night's sleep and looking after your health. That means making a trip to the gym even if you feel like you don't want it, eating as healthy as possible, taking vitamins etc
- Attitude: Having a positive attitude is paramount. It's easy to be daunted with too many things to do, but if you have a "can do" attitude and truly believe anything is possible - then chances are it is.
- Finances: Keep an eye on your finances and make sure that you have kept money aside in case of a rainy day.
- Plan: Every business needs a business plan, marketing strategy, sales strategy and human resources strategy. If you don't have all four - then chances are that something or someone in your organization is going to let you down.
- Smell the roses: Working hard is essential but taking time to smell the roses and appreciate how far you have come and what lay ahead of you will ensure that your spirit is always on a high.
Let's see what the results are from all of this hard work -next week.
Happy Sunday.
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