Small businesses always seem determined and prepared and deal with whatever the world seems to throw at them – which recently is a lot.

So, how do you stay ahead of the game? Here are five top tips:

1. Positive attitude to change – Small businesses see change as an opportunity.
2. Openness to new technology – Entrepreneurs need to have recognition to power that technology has to solve business problems. For example, doing well by doing something good which can be enabled and aided by technology.
3. Actively plan for future technologies – ensure you are constantly asking questions and wondering what is next. It is about doing research to prepare for the future.
4. Set detailed plans and stick with them – With a plan you have a more robust business and stability.
5. Keep up to date with emerging trends – Fit for future businesses really understand what is happening in industry and how this will shape their plans.

Whilst it is great to notice trends and changes in existing customers, it is also good to look at trends and patterns in the market in general.

So, what should a ‘Fit for Future’ business in the post-pandemic world look at?

1. Continuing uncertainty and disruption – Planning for this is essential and will not be going away anytime soon. We are in a period of ongoing disruption that is going to be absolutely pivotal.
2. Changing social attitudes and customer behaviours – Customers are becoming a lot more demanding, but are also so much more focused on sustainability, so this must be a key part of your business.
3. Sustainability as a standard – As mentioned this is becoming a much bigger demand in customers and if you are not including this in your business strategy and highlighting this, you will suffer.
4. Recruiting and nurturing talent – This can sometimes be the difference between you and your competitors. You need to think about how you sustain and retain. If this means changing to remote or including more wellness and technology to aid this.
5. Having a hunger for advice and insight – Now it is key to have a real enthusiasm to ask questions and want to know what the next big thing is.

Finally, just remember as long as you are always wanting more, and looking ahead to the future, you can make sure you are beating the crowd to the front of the queue.