combination of sales and profits is the balanced way of measuring growth. Where to begin Even if you're happy with your current performance, it's important to keep looking for ways to develop. If you don't, you risk allowing your competitors the room to grow and take market share from you, which could seriously weaken your position. Going for growth may therefore begin with consolidation of your current markets. For more information, see the page in this guide on how to consolidate your existing performance. To devise a successful growth strategy, you need to know exactly what shape your business is in now. See our guide on how to review your business performance . This will help you to ensure your business is properly structured and resourced to make the growth strategy you choose a viable option. Consolidate your existing performance Before you pursue any growth strategies, it's essential to make sure that your business is running efficiently . While you may be spending more time and resources on developing the business, you need to be sure that the core of the business is still performing well. It's vital not to neglect your existing customer base as this will underpin your growth and, equally importantly, provide the cash flow you will need during this phase. See our guide on how to identify and sell more to your most valuable customers . Timing is critical to the success of any growth strategy. Answers to the following key questions will help you judge