10 MISTAKES TO AVOID IN YOUR BUSINESS FOR GROWTH AND PROFESSIONALISM
Running a successful business doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require intention and attention to the little things. Often, simple but impactful mistakes can hold you back, even when you’re doing so much right. Let’s address 10 common missteps I see often and how fixing them can transform your business.
This isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being proactive, aligned, and ready to show up like the professional you know you are
1. NO BUYING LINK ON SOCIAL MEDIA
If you’re showing up online but not giving people an easy way to work with you or buy from you, you’re wasting your efforts. Social media is a tool to build trust and connection—but it also needs to lead somewhere.
Fix it: Add a clear, clickable link on your profile to your sales page, mailing list, or waitlist. Make it simple for people to take the next step with you.
2. USING PERSONAL OR OUTDATED EMAIL ADDRESSES
Still emailing from an @hotmail or @yahoo address? Not only does it come across as unpolished, but these platforms also filter emails aggressively, so you could be missing out on opportunities without even knowing it.
Fix it: Upgrade to a professional domain-based email (you@yourbusiness.com). It signals credibility and ensures your messages land where they should.
3. NOT REGISTERING FOR TAX
In Australia, GST registration is required when your earnings hit $75,000. But even before then, registering can elevate how clients view your business. Being proactive with your finances shows you take your business seriously.
Fix it: If you’re not already registered for GST and your revenue is growing, make it a priority. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about showing you’re running a real, legitimate operation.
4. USING CUSTOM FONTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
You know those “fancy” fonts people paste into their Instagram bios or captions? On many devices, they appear as symbols or gibberish, which means your message is getting lost.
Fix it: Stick to the native fonts on the platform so your content is readable for everyone.
5. BLOCKING DMS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
If your DMs are closed to people who don’t follow you, you’re creating a barrier for potential clients to reach out. While managing DMs can feel overwhelming, there are tools and strategies to make it manageable without shutting people out.
Fix it: Open up your DMs and consider setting up auto-responses or filters if volume is an issue. Make it easy for people to contact you.
6. IGNORING YOUR SPAM FOLDER
Opportunities can get lost in your spam folder. That one email you’ve been waiting for? It might already be sitting there.
Fix it: Check your spam folder weekly. It’s a simple habit that can save you from missing out on important communication.
7. NOT USING SEO ON SOCIAL MEDIA
SEO isn’t just for websites—it’s a must for your social platforms too. If your name or bio doesn’t clearly reflect what you do, you’re making it harder for people to find you.
Fix it: Add your service or niche to your display name (e.g., Clara | Business Coach for Women). This simple tweak can make a big difference.
8. OVERTHINKING SHORT-LIVED CONTENT
Putting hours of effort into Instagram Stories or other short-lived content can be draining, especially when it disappears within 24 hours.
Fix it: Focus on sustainable content strategies. For example, break down longer content into smaller pieces that can be repurposed over time.
9. NOT FOLLOWING UP WITH LEADS
This is a big one. You can’t just wait for people to come back to you—you need to check in. Sometimes people forget, get distracted, or need a little nudge to make a decision.
Fix it: Build a system for following up with leads. A quick check-in email or message can go a long way in turning interest into action. If someone doesn’t respond after a couple of follow-ups, it’s okay to let it go. Not everyone is your ideal client.
10. NOT FOLLOWING OTHERS ON INSTAGRAM
If you’re not following anyone, it can make you seem disconnected or uninterested in building community. Instagram is all about interaction.
Fix it: Engage with others in your niche. Follow relevant accounts, comment on posts, and participate in conversations. Showing up as part of the community helps your reach and builds trust.
GETTING IT RIGHT, ONE STEP AT A TIME
These 10 tweaks aren’t about perfection—they’re about intention. By addressing these common mistakes, you’ll not only improve how your business is perceived, but you’ll also create a smoother, more aligned path for growth.