Writing your small business 'not-to-do' list

As a small business owner, chances are you're typically grappling with a to-do list that's a mile long. Entrepreneurs wear many hats, from customer service specialist to marketing coordinator, and it can be tough to take a moment to step back and make sure you're avoiding the pitfalls that, if left unchecked, have the potential to sink your business.

According to Rhonda Abrams, writing for USA Today, putting together a not-to-do list can be equally as beneficial to your company. Abrams, president of The Planning Shop and author of books for entrepreneurs, notes that making sure you're not falling into any of the bad habits on a not-to-do list is an important part of keeping your small business on track.

First, she advises, don't be indecisive. Be sure to weigh up all your options before making a decision, but don't be afraid to take a leap after you have the information you need. After all, you already took a chance on launching your own company in the first place, so once you've scaled that mountain, there's no need to balk at a hill.

With regard to business marketing, don't fall into the trap of becoming so focused on bringing in new customers that you alienate existing ones. You can stay in touch with past and current customers by keeping them up to date with the latest business promotions - for example, by sending out a monthly email newsletter or a direct mail flyer containing coupons.

However, don't force business advertising on your customers, Customer Think warns. Sending correspondence to those who didn't sign up can feel like an invasion of consumer privacy and reflect badly on your company.