A Good Piece of Advice for Small Businesses: Don’t Act Like a Big Business!

Yes, you heard that right—but maybe not in the way you think. Growing a small business is no small feat, but the real challenge is resisting the urge to act like a Fortune 500 company.

Sure, many large companies are well-run. But what makes small businesses special—their agility, personal touch, and close-knit culture—often gets lost when they start adopting the habits of big corporations.

This shift can creep in slowly. Maybe it starts with a committee here, a fancy hire there, or a new office that creates distance among employees. Soon, you might find yourself with layers of management, special parking spaces, and an “us versus them” mentality.

Before you know it, you’ve traded the energy and innovation of a small business for bureaucracy and stagnation. So, how can you grow without falling into the big business trap?

Here are five key ways to keep your small business thriving without losing its spark:

1. Accountability—Every Day, For Everyone

Accountability is a buzzword, but it only works when it’s clearly defined. Make sure every team member knows their role, has the authority to act, and has the tools they need to succeed.

Leaders, including you as the owner, must also be accountable—not just to the company, but to each other and the employees. Accountability should be visible, active, and part of the culture every day.

2. Keep Bureaucracy Out—More Teams, Fewer Committees

Flat is where it’s at. Minimize hierarchy by focusing on functions over departments and teamwork over silos. Cross-train employees and encourage collaboration across roles.

No “superstars” should be above the team—not even you! And when it comes to committees? The only one you need is for the holiday party.

3. Communicate Openly and Often

Keep communication flowing with employees, customers, and suppliers. Prioritize face-to-face interactions whenever possible, whether it’s through in-person meetings or video calls for remote teams.

Bring your staff together regularly—not just for work, but socially. It builds bonds and keeps your company culture strong.

Let everyone know where the company stands—good times and tough times alike. And when you win? Celebrate together!

4. Make Every Customer Everyone’s Responsibility

Customer care isn’t just a job for sales or support—it’s a company-wide effort. Treat every customer as if they’re your only one, just like you did when you started out.

When problems arise, forget about who’s “in charge” of solving it. Skip the finger-pointing and get to the solution. Your customers will notice the difference.

5. Always Be Reinventing

What worked yesterday might not work tomorrow—or even today. Growth requires change, but that doesn’t mean losing the spirit that got you here.

Adopt a mindset of constant improvement. Regularly ask, “How can we do this better?” And when growth slows, consider a complete refresh—whether it’s your pricing model, operations, or even your core strategy.

Remember, reinvention isn’t just cosmetic; it’s about rethinking your business from the ground up.

Stay Vigilant: Big Business Habits Are Sneaky

Success can lure you into the big-business trap. Stay mindful, stay agile, and don’t let bureaucracy dull your edge.

“The Entrepreneur’s Yoda” knows these things.  He’s been there. May success be with you!