On this episode of The Small Business Show, host Shyann Malone is joined by Gene Marks, author, columnist, keynote speaker, small business expert, and CEO of The Marks Group, to discuss the core habits of successful entrepreneurs.
Key Takeaways
1. Marks emphasizes starting the day early at 5 a.m., highlighting that the first few hours of the day are the most productive. He suggests utilizing this time for focused work, such as writing, proposals, and strategic thinking, before distractions set in later in the day.
2. As a certified public accountant himself, Marks stresses the significance of understanding accounting principles for business success. He advises entrepreneurs to either learn accounting or hire someone who is knowledgeable in this area to avoid challenges in managing their companies.
3. Marks emphasizes the value of face-to-face interactions with clients despite the prevalence of virtual meetings. He encourages regular visits to clients to maintain relationships, gather feedback, and provide personalized recommendations, which can strengthen business ties and lead to mutual benefits.
4. Marks advocates for continuous learning through reading and listening to podcasts, emphasizing the importance of staying updated on industry news, current events, and even exploring diverse topics like fiction and psychology to enhance business acumen and understanding of human behavior.
5. Marks underscores the significance of maintaining a balance between work and personal life, especially emphasizing quality time with family. He stresses the importance of valuing and investing in employees, treating them well, and fostering deep relationships, which can lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce.
"In the end, when you're running a business you still have a life to lead. And you have to make sure that you commit as much time as you can between your business and your family...you have to make sure that when you run a business that you have balance." — Gene Marks
