Today we're sharing what we call "ideas to steal". They are all real-life ideas from successful businesses.

Action steps you can pick up and run with right away, without having to research, test or otherwise delay implementing.

Pick five that you can delve into right away. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you want more information or help implementing these steps. You don't need to spend money to do them.

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Bill faster. Your receivables can count for 40-50% of your actual assets. Don't batch invoice: bill as soon as you can. Give yourself no more than 48hours

Simplify your marketing message. Take a look at what you're trying to say and make sure everyone can get the message.

List your business. Get your business and your web site listed in relevant online directories in your locality.

Learn to delegate. Figure out what you do that creates the most money, then delegate the rest.

Encourage employees. Explore more efficient approaches to their tasks instead of relying on their standard way of doing things.

Don't forget suppliers. They are more apt to do a few things for you at no charge because you really take care of them.

Work faster. If you can condense three four-month jobs into three three-month jobs, you can do one more jobs in the year.

Reward your team. Reward for meeting budgets and time lines. A 5% bonus is cheaper than a 20% increase in costs.

Cut overhead. Automating most of the non-producing items like accounting, voice mail, sales reporting and record keeping.

Scope your project. Make sure you've clearly outlined project scope, and don't be afraid to charge your customer for changes.

Speak publicly. Offer to be a spokesperson on your specialty when your local media/school needs an expert opinion.

Give something. Valuable giveaways on your web site; at your front desk; when you send out your invoices; when you deliver goods.

Highlight offers. Showcase Features, promotions and news in your email footers, invoices and letter signatures.

Start social accounts. Twitter.com, Facebook.com and LinkedIn.com and if possible start a blog.

Get your supporters to refer you. Create a "Make A Referral Week" and see how referrals can build your business.