The types of people you need to start a successful business
Thinking of starting a business? Congratulations! Even exploring the idea of entrepreneurship is exciting -- and far more manageable with a good group of people around you. (Insert that old cliche, "It's not what you know, it's who you know." Though it's also what you know, and Lightpost, a free new business guide from the USA TODAY Network, is a good place to start.)
At the core of any good business is a solid support system. Find people who care, and make them as much a part of the process as they would like to be. Try to draw a number of people into your circle of supporters so that you don't end up asking too much of any one person. Always remember that you're not alone.
Lightpost - Your guide to making life changes - USA TODAY NETWORK
Here are the people you should seek out:
1. Find a mentor
What is a mentor, exactly? According to the Small Business Association, “A mentor is someone who has been down the same path you're taking. He or she is experienced, successful and willing to provide advice and guidance -- for no real personal gain.” Basically, they're someone who's knowledge and experience you can tap into, whose experience you trust, respect and want to emulate. When looking for a mentor, think about people whose businesses you've encountered, either on a professional or personal level. Have you formed any relationships? If someone comes to mind, reach out to them. Buy them a cup of coffee or a meal, explain your venture, and gauge their interest in being involved in your process.
If no one you know comes to mind, there are several great resources that connect mentors and small business owners. They include SCORE Mentors, Small Business Development Centers, Women's Business Centers, and federal counseling programs.
2. Find a champion.
A champion is like a mentor -- with connections. Or, as one Entrepreneur article describes, “Think of a champion as a mentor but with a little more skin in the game.” So while their advice is valuable, where they really can deliver for you is by providing business-related leads. These people will talk you up and help you get connected in the business community, even if it means taking a risk on you. A champion may come from a company you have a good business interaction with early-on in your field, who vouches for you with clients.
3. Find a confidant.
Maybe this is a spouse or loved one. Maybe it's a good friend. A confidant is someone who's willing to be your emotional crutch through the process of starting a business. Openness and honesty is important with a confidant, of course, but it's also very important to make them feel valued in the process. When you're sharing everything with someone, they're taking on some of your emotional burden. Make sure they understand your gratitude.
4. Find a sounding board.
No successful company launches a product without testing it. That's the same for many business decisions! Find people in your life who care about your success and are excited to become a part of your process. Bring them together when you need feedback on different elements of your business, from market positioning to branding to testing out new products. Your sounding board members may also become some of your most loyal customers, spreading the word via social media and beyond.
Lightpost - Your guide to making life changes - USA TODAY NETWORK