Having worked in the automobile industry for over 33 years, Bill Sweeney took the plunge 18 years ago and started a very successful repeat/referral business in used auto sales, Always Best Buy Autos. With the aid of his vast experience in auto sales, Mr. Sweeney selects inventory that is most generally still under warranty and purchases at or below market value. With low overhead, a lot of hard work on his part, and "a good God," he's able to pass the savings on to his loyal and growing customer base. Mr. Sweeney makes customer satisfaction his goal, which translates to a much less stressful experience when it comes your turn to buy an auto.

Having his own business affords Mr. Sweeney the opportunity to spend more time with his wife, Sylvia, and children, Billy and Nicole. "We are a close-knit family with strong Christian standards, which I incorporate into my business," said Sweeney. The Aurora BDC's Small Business Specialist Santos Blan is helping him build a better financial scenario for his business so that all those years in auto sales and management pay even bigger dividends for Mr. Sweeney, his business and his family.

10.  Dust off that business plan...update it for 2009.
  9.  Create manageable, attainable goals and remind yourself of them weekly.
  8.  Set realistic “bridge” goals; e.g. plan to weather the storm of the current
       economy over the next 18-24 months.
  7.  Drop what's not working and focus your energy on what is working.
  6.  Leave procrastination behind—Do today what you’ve been putting off for tomorrow.
  5.  Focus on “extreme” customer service—in this economy and competitive
       marketplace, differentiate yourself from your competitors--now more than ever.
  4.  Think Referrals, Referrals, Referrals!  Ask your customers for referrals, and join a
       professional/networking organization in your area.
  3.  Survey your customers to determine what you are doing well and what you can do
       better.
  2.  Take small business or entrepreneurship classes.  The Aurora BDC offers over 80
       seminars and workshops throughout the year for small businesses, just like yours.
  1.  ASK FOR HELP.  Just because you are in business for yourself, doesn’t mean you
      have to do it by yourself.  Contact us today for FREE one-on-one counseling
      sessions with one of our knowledgeable and highly experienced small business
      advisors to discuss your particular issues or opportunities.

Becoming a new business owner can often be an overwhelming experience, especially when it involves construction work on your property. The city of Aurora wants to see your business succeed even before you open your doors for business. Aurora's Building Codes Division is available to help you understand the construction requirements for renovating commercial space under city and state guidelines. Read more for helpful tips on selecting a contractor.