Summary of Advertise Your Business
In business, a businessman should always treat his customers with politeness, as this is his greatest investment. No amount of flashy advertising or grand buildings can replace the value of courtesy. To sustain a business, he should sell quality products at reasonable prices, reserving some profit, rather than aiming to become an overnight millionaire by charging excessively. Customers are like gods, and minor mistakes on their part should never lead to humiliation. Charity brings happiness, and it is the duty of wealthy individuals to be generous. As Solomon says in the Bible, “If you scatter, you increase; if you are miserly, you become poor,” meaning that misers are poor in heart.
The writer also emphasizes that a businessman must maintain secrecy. His goals, profits, and strategies should not be shared with anyone. The same principle applies to business letters—care must be taken in writing them. Failing to focus on the content may damage a businessman’s reputation.
Q1: Why is politeness important for a businessman?
A: Politeness is important because it builds trust with customers, who are essential for a business’s success.
Q2: What should a businessman focus on instead of becoming an overnight millionaire?
A: A businessman should focus on selling quality products at reasonable prices and reserving some profit for sustainability.
Q3: Why should a businessman keep his business secrets?
A: Keeping business secrets protects his goals, profits, and reputation from being compromised.
Q4: How does charity benefit a businessman according to Barnum?
A: Charity brings happiness and goodwill; generous people are considered rich in heart, while misers are poor in spirit.
Q5: What type of person is created by following Barnum’s advice?
A: A person who is honest, intelligent, charitable, and able to maintain secrecy.