I love the smell of the barn. And although I’m not usually excited to get covered in dirt, when I’m spending time with majestic four-legged creatures I don’t mind a bit.

I often trying to think of ways to make my hobby into an occupation. Wouldn’t it be great to get paid to do what you love? Maybe I could actually get paid to photograph horses, shoot video, or better yet, to exercise them, ride them, and groom them. It all sounds ideal. But if I had to do it every day would it still feel like a hobby? Would it still be fun if I had to get covered in dirt, sweat and horse hair every day? I don’t know.

For now, horses will just be my hobby. But if someone offers me a job working with horses…I’ll let you know.

Tip 1 – Keep Them Close. You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating. It costs 5-10 times more to get a new customer than to keep the customer you already have. So what’s the best way to keep the customer you already have? Keep them very happy. This may involve surveying your current customers to see how you’re doing, investing in employee training, adding a new product or service (in response to survey results), or staying in touch with your customers through social networking media (Facebook, Twitter) or email. Social networking can be a great way to build community among your customers and create a “Your Company – Nation” so to speak.

Tip 2 – Get Out There! Business networking events can be a great way to meet new clients and to make other business people aware of you and your company. I have forged several business relationships as a result of contacts I made at networking events. You may not be able to attend every event, but you can make the most of the events you attend:

• Practice your listening skills. Invite others to talk about themselves, their business, and what makes them unique.
• Be ready to tell a story about your business – for example, how you were able to help a client solve a problem.
• Bring plenty of your business cards. Your card should have a brief description of what you do or what makes you unique.
• Follow up after the event. If you met someone that has an interest in what you do or vice versa, call or send an email. Ask if you can set up an appointment.
• Above all, bring a positive attitude! Any new person you meet could be your next client! Smile!