» By: David Handler

1. Encourage Input – Google team members live by a code of “tolerance and respect.” Once decisions are made, the company insists upon consensus and cooperation from everyone.

2. Think Lean – A typical employee-to-manager ratio in the technology industry is seven-to-one. Google averages 20 employees for every manager…the result of an inclusive culture.

3. Focus On The Numbers – Data rules at Google, as the company understands decision-making is easier when based on facts. Make sure your small business has strong data.

4. Share – On Fridays, Google has an “all-hands on deck” meeting – complete with refreshments – to disseminate information and solicit feedback.

5. Test – Employment candidates endure several levels of testing and eight or more interviews, being graded at every turn. Some of the brightest don’t get hired, if they’re not team players.

6. Improve On Someone Else’s Idea – Search engines, video file management, mapping, online auctions, e-mail…all of these existed before. Google just made them easier to use.

7. Play Big – Some say Google wants to control the Internet, because whoever does will rule the world. There is nothing wrong with aiming high, even if it’s a tad short of global dominance.

8. Don’t Fear Competition – Google wasn’t afraid to go up against Yahoo or MSN. If you believe in your small business, welcome all challengers…and don’t fear Goliath.

9. Recover – Did you know Google was supposed to be “Googol” (like the number)? Someone misspelled it on an application, so they went with it. Not a bad decision as it turns out.

10. Create An Experience – Google focuses on being user-friendly, utilizing its 82 million monthly visitors as a big testing ground, then adapting quickly to suggestions and feedback.

11. Be Innovative – Internet advertising (think: pop-up) was in decline until Google came up with a new approach. Look for new ways to do something old in your small business.

Copyright © 2006 by Success Handler, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Coach, David Handler, is the founder of Success Handler, (http://www.successhandler.com), and specializes in helping small business leaders, franchisees and franchisors find clarity and take action. He understands the challenges of running a business, because he’s been there – as a small business owner, franchisee, franchisor, corporate leader and trainer. Much like sports coaches, his coaching will show you how to compete on a level playing field in your industry.