Managing Growth

Common Mistakes

The Dirty Dozen

1. Didn't ask: If you don't know - ask.
2. Didn't listen: Seek advice from those who know and don't forget to listen.
3. Didn't look before leaping: Evaluate before committing the dollars.
4. Winged it: Planning can save you half the time and double your chance of success.
5. Cut off communication: Keep talking, even if it means some heated discussion. This applies to clients, employees and suppliers.
6. Ignored instincts: If you smell disaster, pay attention.
7. Moved too fast: Touch all the bases. Don't lose out because of a rookie mistake.
8. Have the financing in place: Talent, skills and organization take you a long way, but financial instability can undermine everything else.
9. Assumed: Manage people's expectations by telling them what you are going to do and when. If they're not giving you the same thing in return, ask.
10. Forced the fit: Sometimes the chemistry isn't right between people or companies. Walk away rather than enduring frustration and failure.
11. Unrealistic goals: Don't jeopardize your reputation. And build in buffer time for snafus.
12. Knew better: Every situation is unique. Every encounter brings fresh opportunity for success or failure.