Entrepreneurial innovation and creative thinking are the core of running any business. Here are some tips for finding entrepreneur resources in unexpected places. Seek potential and value in places where your competitors or peers might not, and discover unique ways to strengthen your company.
Experts can come in all sizes and colors, and not all of them have prestigious degrees or job titles. Chances are, you know a lot of people in your life who have something to teach you. What knowledge can you tap into through friend and family networks that can help you grow?
Do you have a personal board of directors? This isn't the same thing as a board for your company, this is an advisory group just for you as an individual and a businessperson. Make a list of five people you know who give great advice, from five different perspectives, and plan to meet with these individuals at least twice a year for private check ins about your progress and your goals.
Any business in your community where you have consumer confidence might be a good partner for your own company. Where do you enjoy being a customer? Entrepreneurs who only consider partners within their own industry or immediate field miss out on many potentially beneficial alliances.
A favorite dining spot might be the right partner for an awards ceremony in your field, willing to supply meals at cost to your gala guests in order to raise visibility and create buzz. Your favorite coffeehouse might be interested in donating morning pastries for your workforce in exchange for an ongoing contract to supply java for your meetings. Surprising alliances can be a win win scenario, and it never hurts to ask.
You may find resources within your already hired staff. Which of your employees may have unexplored abilities in their skill set? Get to know the people powering your business, and you may find unique talents and skills ideal for special project application, or growth ventures. Invest time in searching out the hidden treasures within the people you've already hired, and you just might strike a jackpot of resources where you least expect it.
Once you discover someone's passion, you will find a source of energy that motivates them to work harder, work longer, and accomplish more for you and your business. Ask your employees which facets of their skills or abilities aren't being used by their daily tasks, and find out what they're capable of. You can get more from your workforce without spending a dime, if you look at your employees with fresh eyes and see them as untapped resources.
Last but not least, look to the internet. Whether you are already a titan in your field, or are just starting out, there are resources online for you. When you have a burning question, log on to ask for advice or help with that specific issue. If you have a new idea, do some research online to see who else might be pursuing that business idea, and what you can learn from their approach to help you achieve your own dreams.
Experts can come in all sizes and colors, and not all of them have prestigious degrees or job titles. Chances are, you know a lot of people in your life who have something to teach you. What knowledge can you tap into through friend and family networks that can help you grow?
Do you have a personal board of directors? This isn't the same thing as a board for your company, this is an advisory group just for you as an individual and a businessperson. Make a list of five people you know who give great advice, from five different perspectives, and plan to meet with these individuals at least twice a year for private check ins about your progress and your goals.
Any business in your community where you have consumer confidence might be a good partner for your own company. Where do you enjoy being a customer? Entrepreneurs who only consider partners within their own industry or immediate field miss out on many potentially beneficial alliances.
A favorite dining spot might be the right partner for an awards ceremony in your field, willing to supply meals at cost to your gala guests in order to raise visibility and create buzz. Your favorite coffeehouse might be interested in donating morning pastries for your workforce in exchange for an ongoing contract to supply java for your meetings. Surprising alliances can be a win win scenario, and it never hurts to ask.
You may find resources within your already hired staff. Which of your employees may have unexplored abilities in their skill set? Get to know the people powering your business, and you may find unique talents and skills ideal for special project application, or growth ventures. Invest time in searching out the hidden treasures within the people you've already hired, and you just might strike a jackpot of resources where you least expect it.
Once you discover someone's passion, you will find a source of energy that motivates them to work harder, work longer, and accomplish more for you and your business. Ask your employees which facets of their skills or abilities aren't being used by their daily tasks, and find out what they're capable of. You can get more from your workforce without spending a dime, if you look at your employees with fresh eyes and see them as untapped resources.
Last but not least, look to the internet. Whether you are already a titan in your field, or are just starting out, there are resources online for you. When you have a burning question, log on to ask for advice or help with that specific issue. If you have a new idea, do some research online to see who else might be pursuing that business idea, and what you can learn from their approach to help you achieve your own dreams.
