Dennis McKinley's Ten Power Moves to Jump-Start Your Business

As you know, August is Black Business Month, and what better way to kick start the month than with some tips from a proven serial entrepreneur. Dennis Mckinley, a Detroit native, moved to Atlanta and established himself as one of the leading entrepreneurs to look up to. With the launch of Queen Virgin Remy, The Original Hot Dog Factory, and now Nyak Cognac, his track record speaks for itself. He shared a few tips with us for starting and maintaining a successful business. Check out the tips below and see how you can apply them to your very own endeavors.

Whatever business you are entering, please do the necessary research. Most people start businesses that align with their passion. That alone puts you steps ahead of most people.

Make sure we can find you anywhere and everywhere.

Size isn’t as important as skill. There are tons of companies making major noise with less than 5 or 10 employees. Make sure your team knows what they are doing.

Please look into who can help you, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. Closed mouths don’t get fed and people don’t just hand things to you. This can be anyone from an old college friend or a current gym buddy.

Of course, you are supposed to shoot for the stars, but please know when to shoot and when not to shoot. Be realistic about what you can and can’t handle.

If you are an expert in an industry, try your best to start a business there. If it’s not your passion, you can always start two businesses.

Don’t be afraid to take or borrow techniques and styles from leaders in your industry.

Whether you are selling products or services, make sure to have the right people in the right place who can actually get people to purchase from your business.

Always try to cut the fat. Always make sure to invest back in your business for full growth potential.

Keep short goals (daily and weekly) and longer ones (a year, five years). Aim to shape your days to meet those goals.