18 tips for success

1. Don’t do it if you don’t enjoy it.
2. Be visible – get out there and sell yourself.
3. Choose your name wisely.
4. You can’t run a business without taking risks.
5. The first impression is everything. So is the second.
6. Perfection is unattainable.
7. The customer is always right, most of the time.
8. Define your brand.
9. Explore uncharted territory – lots of things haven’t yet been discovered.
10. Beware the “us vs. them” environment.
11. Build a corporate comfort zone – so people can openly express themselves without rigid confines.
12. Not everyone is suited to be a CEO.
13. Seek a second opinion. Seek a third.
14. Cut ties without burning bridges.
15. Pick up the phone – don’t text or email when you should be calling.
16. Change shouldn’t be feared, but it should be managed.
17. When it comes to making mistakes, bounce back, don’t fall down.
18. Be a leader, not a boss.

– Richard Branson

I was reminded of this list by a friend just this morning, so noting it here. It’s remarkable how consistently accurate and relevant the advice has proven to be over the years.