No One Succeeds Alone

One of the perks of being a Business Advisor is I get to work with some smart people. Recently, a client and I were chatting about the elements of success. He said something that struck home – “There are no self-made individuals.” I’m sure many among us would scoff at that statement. “Hey Thom, I built my company from the ground up with my own blood, sweat, and tears.” And you very well may have; however, did you really do it alone?

Think about it. Did anyone ever ‘open a door’ for you? Of course they have. Absent these interactions, it can be a very slow (i.e. painful) trek toward growth. But sometimes you need a little bit more, and I have a couple of suggestions to help you jump-start your business in 2015.

Build Your Team

Every swashbuckling solopreneur needs guidance. Consider establishing an Advisory Board for your business.  Ask three or four professionals you admire if they would be willing to serve.  It doesn’t have to be anything fancy like getting everyone together for a surf-and-turf dinner every month.  You could simply connect with members when you need to bounce ideas around.  

Phone a Friend

Another option is finding an Accountability Partner.  Hey, going it alone is rough (I know) but having someone keeping you focused on the Pot O’Gold at the end of the rainbow (and the 6,000,000 things you’ll need to do before you get to it) can make all the difference.  Ask another entrepreneur, or business professional, if they would be interested in meeting briefly (phone or Skype) on a weekly basis to help keep each other focused. 

Call in a Ringer

Sometimes you need something a little more intensive.  In these cases I’d recommend a coach or advisor.  I know, I’m an advisor but I’m not pitching you (really).  Even high-level CEO’s hire coaches. Why? For one simple reason – they get results.  That’s why you pay them. 

If you have a budget, and think it’s time for a professional to help you get your business humming, contact a few business coaches. Get to know them, and how they might grow your business. It’s all about personalities, so be sure you’re 100% comfortable before you choose who you're going to invest in.

Well, these are a few of my tips.  If you have any suggestions, please leave them in the comment section. Happy New Year!

Thom Fox is an Advisor helping businesses and entrepreneurs enhance profitability and increase revenue. To learn more about Thom, please visit thomfox.com.