I just read an incredible post by Seth Godin. He refers to the out of bounds areas businesses define for themselves based on what the do, and what they could do.

I find this interesting in two aspects. First, as Seth talks about, if your focus is one product or service, will you give a second the time and attention it deserves.

The second aspect is that of focus. Too often small businesses and entrepreneurs try to be all things to all people. Is diversity always best, or should you focus on what you are really good at instead of growing a wider line.

The answer, I believe, lies somewhere in the middle. We should focus on what we do, and do it best. If our customers need further solutions, that we can provide, we need to add. It takes more effort to find new customers and clients, than it does to keep the ones we have. If we can add valuable solutions, why would they need to go anywhere else. Make sure to keep your boundaries, however. If you have to completely redefine yourself to help this customer, you need to know where to draw that line.

I don’t do headstands, I’ll leave that to those who do. Surround yourself with great people, and they can pick up those extras.

How are you working with your customers? Are you defining your limits, or are you adding headstands when you’d rather be sitting down?

(photo by Louise Starbird of Photoworks Studios)