At Bartercard, we know and understand that starting a business—no matter how big or small—is not for the faint of heart. More than conceptualising great ideas, being a business owner requires endless hours of work, stress, and sweat to achieve sustainable success. The role also requires you to have an open mindset, dedication, and a level of perseverance to take on challenges and weather inevitable setbacks.
If you’re second-guessing your business decisions, struggling to get your business off the ground, or need a little dose of insight to inspire your business growth strategies, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve collected ten of our favourite quotes to inspire you and your unique journey to business success.
Our favourite business quotes
“Business is not just doing deals; business is having great products, doing great engineering, and providing tremendous service to customers. Finally, business is a cobweb of human relationship.”
– Henry Ross Perot, American business magnate and philanthropist
It’s so easy to get caught up with the “what” of the product that business owners sometimes forget the “why”. Remember that your business is more than just providing great products and excellent service; it’s also about creating authentic connections with the people you work with.
“I would rather earn 1% off 100 people’s efforts than 100% off my own efforts.”
– John D Rockefeller, oil industry businessman
Your business can never be successful on your own account. Growth is the result of forces working together, aiming at the same goal, so give credit where credit is due. Recognise that the growth of your business would not be possible without the people helping you.
“Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.”
– Bill Gates, founder and CEO of Microsoft
One of the greatest inspirations in your business is your customer. Listen to them. Learn how your customers feel about your product, as they can provide deeper insight into your business.
“Repetition makes reputation and reputation make customers.”
– Elizabeth Arden, founder of Elizabeth Arden Inc.
To grow your business, you need to practice consistency. If you’re consistently providing valuable products, treating customers well, and improving your services, your brand will thrive for many years to come.
“I cannot give you the formula for success, but I can give you the formula for failure, which is: Try to please everybody.”
– Herbert Swope, journalist
One misconception that many business owners have is that to be successful is to garner the approval of everyone. This is rarely the case. Your business will not be for everyone and that is okay. Focus on the people who care and those who find value in what you offer.
“The way your employees feel is the way your customers will feel. And if your employees don’t feel valued, neither will your customers.”
– Sybil F. Stershic, speaker and author
Employees are just as important as your customers. They’re the face of your business, they operate and run your business, and they’re also advocates for the brand. Value them and the work they do for your company. The way you treat them will reflect on your products and services.
“This might shock you, but you should fail during your business.”
– Mike Kappel, founder and CEO of Patriot Software LLC
Fear of failure is natural, but it shouldn’t be a reason to quit. True entrepreneurs face their fears head-on and act on their goals despite the possibility of failure. Ultimately, how you deal with the fear is what will make a difference.
“I’m convinced that about half of what separates the successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance.”
– Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, Inc.
Successful entrepreneurs don’t just give up when faced with one difficult challenge. Running a business is an ongoing process of achieving high moments and enduring moments of failure. It’s persevering during the tumultuous times that will help you succeed.
“I can give you a six-word formula for success: Think things through- then follow through.”
– Edward Rickenbacker, WWI fighter ace
Sometimes, all you need to do is get started. Business owners get stuck at their big idea by overthinking that idea’s profitability. Don’t just think about it, take the steps to put it out there!
“Here is the simple but powerful rule… always give people more than they expect to get.”
– Nelson Boswell, author
Lastly, this goes for all people that are involved in your business: employees, customers, and fellow business owners. Always go beyond what is expected and people will remember you for it.
Take the first step to growth with Bartercard!
If you’re feeling more encouraged and want to take steps to grow your business but don’t know how, contact us today! Bartercard is a B2B networking platform that can provide you with multiple opportunities to widen your reach, connect with people, and grow your brand.
