Running a small business may feel like it has a lot of ups and downs with a changing workforce, some fluctuation in customer spending, and consumers who have evolving needs. Luckily, there’s always room for growth and business development if you hone in on the proper demographic and network with other companies for insights. Here are some tips for a successful small business.

How to Further Develop Your Small Business

1. Try to Delegate

When just starting out, a small business owner may feel the need to handle every detail themselves for seamless business operations and to guide their new workforce. However, if you want your enterprise to grow, you may need to hire more employees. When they take over the small tasks that you’re usually busy with, you’ll have more freedom to develop big strategies for the future.

2. Find Your Niche

While the big picture is certainly important, you may have to narrow your focus when you’re first finding your footing in the industry. It’s hard to market your brand to a broad, undefined audience—such as book lovers—but you’ll gain traction by targeting a specific, niche group with your products and advertisements—such as readers between ages 30 and 50 who enjoy buying dessert cookbooks. If you’re selling a product or service that you would personally buy, you’ll have all the insight required to define your target consumer.

3. Network in Your Community

While you might have shied away from befriending the competition, you’ll find that creating ties with other local business owners will embed you in the fabric of the community. Networking with those in other industries will set the scene for partnerships, collaborations, and sponsorships in the future. Getting close to those in the same industry may help you learn how to accelerate your business development process. It could also improve your long-term bottom line if another business owner refers a client to you. Consider attending mixers, conferences, and local festivals, or simply reaching out to other small businesses with an email or call.

If you’re looking to promote your small business to cement your role within the community, the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce is here to help. This Florissant, MO, team is always inviting new members, and it now includes over 400 businesses and individuals. In addition to providing a constant support system, they regularly throw events to encourage networking and business development. To learn more about joining, call them at (314) 831-3500. Visit the organization’s website to learn more about the staff members and mission.