MASON CITY, IA - Area small businesses may be getting some love over Valentine’s Day, as Americans look to spend eight percent more this year than last.
But business coach Andy O'Brien tells us they don't have to wait for holiday's to make money. O’Brien's job is to give a boost to business owners in need of guidance.
"Be the trusted advisor that's not afraid to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ but what to do what's best."
He started up with the company "Action Coach" this past year, and as he addresses the business owners and employees at the Noon Rotary Club in Mason City, his message is clear. Don't let the "economy" become a crutch.
“They can't pre-excuse themselves to fail right off the bat or they automatically will."
O'Brien explains there could be other reasons why a business is stuck in a rut. Possibly an owner is short on time, or does not have a trustworthy staff, or is lacking the money to expand.
As a North Iowa native, he feels the successful industries in our area find a niche, and know what they're doing in the market
So if you're at a loss, he says don't keep quiet.
"That's the key, we can't do what we've done in the past, where it's all our problem and we can't tell anybody about it. We need to ask for help."
