By: Nicole Leinbach-Reyhle

A new year is always a time of reflection, and for small business owners there are no exceptions. With success coming in different shapes, sizes and even dollars, consider how you can help support your business in the year ahead  to make it your best yet.

Below, gain five tips from five industry leading experts on how to make it your best year yet.

1. Treat customers like guests in your home. 

While there will always be customers who have decreased attention, are in a hurry, or appear to be frazzled, you want to still aim to deliver strong customer care despite customer scenarios. One way to do this is to treat customers as if they are guests in your home.”

Kirt Manecke, customer service expert and author of the book “Smile: Sell More with Amazing Customer Service” 

2. Belong to at least three professional organizations. 

“I always suggest to business owners that they belong to at least three professional assocations. First, you should belong to your local Chamber of Commerce or downtown business association. That is where you business is and where your employees often live. Moreover, you should belong to your specific industry trade association. And last, you should belong to a statewide association because most legislation happens at state level, and you need eyes and ears looking out for you business. In most cases, a retail association will fill that role.”

Curtis Picard, Executive Director of the Retail Association of Maine

3. Participate in e-commerce. 

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