We get it!
You have fantastic ideas. You know exactly where you want to take your business. You’ve read the books and you know how it’s done. You left corporate or maybe you knew you weren’t made from that mold and now you are the BOSS! But being the boss doesn’t mean going it alone.
Even the Lone Ranger rode with Tonto.
Successful business people create a support network. They actively seek guidance from others, both within and without their fields. They know, either instinctively or by instruction, that a strong support foundation is a crucial component to any business.
Who should be in your support network?
Start with what and who you know. Are you part of a franchise or direct selling network? Start there. Find others with whom you have a connection. Network with others who are at your same level, and seek out those whom you wish to emulate. Who is the top dog in your franchise? Approach him or her and establish a relationship. Chances are that they will welcome your interest. Great business people always want others to succeed because they know that the better the group is, the better it is for everyone. Ever heard, “one bad apple spoils the bunch?” So it is the best interest of all when everyone succeeds.
Next, find people who will grow your business savvy.
Find someone who’s business brain works in the complete opposite way of yours. I found a wonderful marketing coach who sees the world in such a completely different way that (although my brain hurts when we are done) I understand that my way is not the only way and, indeed, sometimes not the best way. The world of business is very complex and often franchise owners are people of passion who don’t have a lot of business experience.
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. These services are provided at little or no cost right in your community. This is a great resource to have in your coat pocket for all occasions.
Having a mentor or accountability partner(s) is key to setting a track and staying on it.
When we set goals or make plans, telling them out loud to another person makes them real and keeps us accountable to do what we said we would. This foundation piece is so critical that many business owners are willing to pay someone to be in their corner. Of course, you don’t have to pay for it, but do find someone willing to commit to you and vice-versa.
Do you remember the movie, My Cousin Vinny? Vinny wanted to win his “first case without any help from anybody.” Of course, he couldn’t do it. And neither should you. Build your support network and watch your business grow!
Ready to take your business to a new level? Be sure to get your access to my exclusive 3 part Video Series that unveils the 3 Insider Secrets to catapult your franchise or direct sales business to success here: www.theplanpiper.com
What do you think? Are you in stop trying to be a Lone Ranger? Leave a comment below and let’s talk about it….