Response to Sean's Question: Out of all these principles I just mentioned, which one do you believe is most important for small businesses and why?

I agree with all of the principles Sean included when it comes to small businesses. I think the most important would be getting your name out there. I think this leads to all the other principles. Once the business name is out there clients will be drawn to the company. They will then purchase products. If the product is of good value the customer will then become a repeat customer and the business can build a relationship with the customer. This will then have the customer recommend the business to others, which will cut out the need to focus on a target market due to the right target market being recommended from other customers. This will benefit the business because they will better use their resources since not as much advertising will be necessary to promote the business. With strong relationships with the customers and valued products the customers will bring in more business.

            A small business will need to mostly focus on the start up of their business. When the opening of the business occurs they need to be sure to get their name out there. I think in the end the rest will take care of itself especially in a small town where everyone talks. Getting your foot in the door is really what will determine if the business will survive the first year or have to close its doors.

What is the highest cost to businesses when starting a business? Do you think businesses should better distribute their costs into the different principles Sean had mentioned?