Later this week I’ll be on the eve of a “big” birthday. Yes, one of those with a zero. I’ve done quite a few of them before, so it’s no big deal.
Now, some of you might send birthday wishes, but it probably won’t make a difference as to whether or not you’d hire me as a copywriter for your business. On its own, time served on the planet does not qualify me as a great writer. Seeing out another decade does not automatically mean I can create copy for you that will have customers flocking to you.
Like most things, it’s not about how much you have, but what you’ve done with it.
So, would I ignore the milestones in your business? Not at all. And here are the ones you might want to celebrate.
You’ve survived the first year
You know what? In this day and age, I think that’s worth celebrating. It’s not easy getting a new business up and running, and getting through year one takes some guts and determination. Possibly a stroke of luck.
But along the way, there will have been people who have been there for you, supported you, become fans of what you do. If nothing else, you’ll want to say thank you. How you treat people when you’re a small business will become part of your legend as you grow.
Of course, how you say thank you could also make a story in its own right. Celebrate, and be thankful. There are stories in there.
You’ve got to five years. Or three. Or ten.
You’re doing more than just surviving as a business. You’ve been round the block a few times. Your product has been tested, refined, reviewed, reviled and loved. And you’re still here.
You are definitely not a fly by night.
It’s a big deal, in that it shows they can trust you and your business. It’s something to be proud of. Trust might sound old school, but it’s also still really valid. When so much changes, people like to know what they can rely on.
Someone else has said you’re great at what you do
Maybe you’ve won a prize; maybe you’ve got a great testimonial from an amazing client. Share those things.
Again, it’s all about building trust. Most people are always looking for reassurance about their choices and decisions, and these external recommendations help them with that.
So, don’t be shy, tell people.
I mean you don’t have to be arrogant about it but do share the good news. The people who have stuck with you, your fans, will be delighted for you. They might even share their happiness with others.
You’re moving
Usually, a business is moving for a positive reason. You’ve grown. You need more space. Maybe you’re relocating to a completely different location. Whatever reason it is, then it’s probably significant.
Have a look at the response that Hiut Denim got when they talked about their move. They are a brand that inspires devotion and love, probably because they give out love and inspiration. Could people be any more excited by the news?
I would say don’t underestimate the power of the story of your milestones. Have fun with them, make videos, take great photos, tell stories. Just remember, if you’re in the 50% of businesses that survive over four years then that is most definitely worth celebrating!
