7 Phrases Entrepreneurs (Or Really Anyone) Should Stop Using

I’m avoiding a storied intro to prevent myself from accidentally using one of the phrases below.  Just

Tom Hanks agrees.  And everybody likes Tom Hanks.

sayin’.  Dang it!

1. I’m just not a computer person – This is not 1995 and we are not listening to dial up noises, trying to cancel AOL, or fighting the blue screen of death.  Technology has come a long way, so most businesses should have a decent looking website, accounting software and have most transactions automated.
2. People just don’t want to work anymore – Ughhh…..you are right that some folks are looking for a free ride, but most people are willing to earn a living.  We have turnover, when we hire someone at the last minute, don’t train them, or spend time praising them for the things they are doing correctly.
3. I don’t know about this next generation – Every previous generation sounds like Grumpy Old Man from Saturday Night Live.  For example, Gorat from the Stone Age says, “Plato, think he smart, with his wheel and philosophy.  In my day, we just had square and cave drawing.  And we like it.  No, we loved it!”  Millennials may be a little self-absorbed, however, they are more socially aware than previous generations, tech savvy, and they are not going away. 
4. It is, what it is – Translation, “I’m too lazy to find a solution.”  Or, even explain the situation, which lacks a solution.
5. Just sayin’ – A big one here in the South.  And 1^st cousin to “It is, what it is.”
6. Please advise – This is just a passive aggressive way to make someone else explain every, single step for you.  “Dear CPA, I just received my tax returns and it says I owe $3,000.  Please advise.”  
7. I must be doing something right, because I’m still here - Well, that may be true in part, however, just being here doesn’t equate to success.  Otherwise the post office and your appendix would be considered a roaring success.

June Seminars

Export Boot Camp for Small Businesses workshop of Volunteer State Community College's Tennessee www.tsbdc.org. Free.

Small Business Development Center, 9-11 a.m. Thursday, May 29, 1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN in the Betty Gibson Hall, Room 107C. Registration is required. Reserve online.

Health Care Reform, Preparing Your Business for the 2015 Mandates workshop of Volunteer State Community College's Tennessee Small Business Development Center, 3-4 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, 1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN in the Betty Gibson Hall, Conference Room 104. Registration is required. Reserve online. www.tsbdc.org. Free.

Estate Planning for Small Business Owners workshop of Volunteer State Community College's Tennessee Small Business Development Center, 3-4 p.m. Thursday, June 5, 1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN in the Betty Gibson Hall, Conference Room 104. Registration is required. Reserve online. www.tsbdc.org. Free.

Social Media Digital Marketing Course of Volunteer State Community College's Tennessee Small Business Development Center, 9-4 p.m. Friday, June 6, 1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN in Building 300, Room 104. Registration is required. Reserve online. www.tsbdc.org. Attendees are encouraged to bring their laptop or tablet.  $99 (payable at the workshop.)

Starting a Small Business workshop of Volunteer State Community College's Tennessee Small Business Development Center, 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, 1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN in the Betty Gibson Hall, Gibson Conf Room 104. Registration is required. Reserve online. www.tsbdc.org. Free.

Shark Tank winner starts with the SBDC

I totally missed this a while back.  I watch this show religiously and remember this guy well.  Mr. Tod, a client at the Small Business Development Center at Raritan Valley Community College is doing quite well too.

http://www.sbdcrvcc.com/2010/mr-todd-wins-2009-success-award/

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Mr. Tod's testimonial about the SBDC: “The SBDC at RVCC has been a blessing to my business. My recent SBA loan approval was a direct result of my involvement with the SBDC. I can’t say enough about the assistance I received. I would urge any entrepreneur who is serious about taking their business to the next level to explore the mentorship and counseling opportunities available at the SBDC.” Tod Wilson, Mr. Tod’s Pie Factory 2009 ABC Shark Tank Winner