Covering these essentials is what made others successful.

Inc. magazine asked a bunch of entrepreneurs how they got to the top. Here’s the essence of what they said:

1. Character is key when hiring. It’s also the toughest trait to uncover. You’ll probably be able to tell pretty quickly if someone has the qualifications, experience, etc. But determining whether a candidate has character takes a lot of questions and analysis on your part. After a while, you’ll know it when you see it.
2. Cash may be king, but it’s not everything. Most entrepreneurs say if you have a solid mission and and solid goals, the money will follow. So a profitable business plan — while certainly important — isn’t the end of the story.
3. Plan for rainy days. They’re coming, and you know it. Be ready — for downturns, credit crunches or whatever else may hit. One key to readiness: Ask your managers what they’d do if trouble hits.
4. Keep good records. Poor or nonexistent records systems have sunk more companies that any recession.
5. Learn to say “no” to customers. It’s easy to “yes” customers to death: Tell them what they want to hear and make the sale, right? Wrong. Most successful entrepreneurs have learned that customers trust companies that act like guides in the wilderness. Just because the customer wants to eat all the food on the first day of the trek doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Use “no” as a way to guide and help your customers, and they’ll keep coming back.
6. Understand that everyone works in “Customer Service.” Service should be a companywide culture, not a department.
7. Take time to dream. Running a business day-to-day can make you forget that one of the reasons you got into business was to be creative. Make sure you set aside a little time for innovative thinking.