Tips for a Successful Launch

Heidi's Heavenly Cookies

Heidi Nel, owner of Heidi’s Heavenly Cookies, suggests the following ‘tried and true’ tips for a successful launch since beginning a cookie business out of her home in 2001:

BE GENEROUS

In addition to sending her product to her immediate network of friends and family, she also sent them to business leaders and the media.  Assuming you have a great product coupled with beautiful packaging, garnering media acclaim will quickly move your business into the spotlight.

BE PATIENT

Building a brand takes time, hard work, sacrifice and long hours.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Think strategically and practically as opportunities arise for your business.  Some public relation/advertising invitations may not always be well-time for your business’ developmental time-line.

PRIORITIZE

First, get clear on your priorities (both professionally and personally).  Then, be sure that you are always able to gage whether your current goal meets your larger priorities.

CULTIVATE YOUR PERSONAL RESERVES

If you don’t take the time out to build up your personal reserves (i.e. engaging in your hobbies, recharging), your business and your family life will suffer.  Be sure to schedule time to unwind, get away from your business and do things that make you happy.

LEARN HOW TO LEAD

Don’t get stuck down in the trenches. You will never be effective if you don’t take the time to plan for the future of your business. It is critical that you delegate out your original roles and focus on the higher aspects of running your company.

UNDERSTAND THAT CHANGE IS GOOD

In order to move forward, you must grow and let go. Every transition moves you into a new dynamic that you must embrace.