It’s so easy, when you’re an entrepreneur, to keep your head down and just plow forward. There’s so much to do! Lead generation; contracts to complete; meeting with customers, vendors, and contractors; sorting out what government programs are right for your business, etc., etc. We often forget to take the time to step back and reflect, evaluate, and seek advice when necessary.
On Twitter, I follow several sources of business info of which inc.com is one of the best. No window dressing, no big egos, no verbosity; just concrete, unfluffy, get-to-the-point info that you really need. This recent article by Emily Richett, “These Aren’t Survival Tips. 5 Ways to Actually Thrive in Your New Business” is an especially useful one.
Two sections I really thought were important include info on branding and mentoring. Branding has become much more than a logo and a business name. Now, it’s more about your story and what content you deliver to customers rather than how the specifications of your product relate to a basket of demographic facts. As Richett states, “Don’t underestimate the power of a compelling brand aesthetic.” About mentoring she explains, “Having a mentor or a group that supports you through the growth phases of business can be crucial.” I know you may feel that a mentor might steer you away from your precious vision but mentoring can also help you avoid traps, keep up your spirits and widen your opportunities. In CT, if you’re a female entrepreneur, you can find mentors at the Women’s Business Center at the University of Hartford. If you’re focused on Hartford like me, check out the Metro Hartford Alliance. Or, for mentoring on specific business topics from executives that have been there, try SCORE.
What problems are you facing as an entrepreneur? Leave a comment! I’ll probably know a person or an organization that can help.
Mary Ruth, Owner of United Sewing and Design has over 30 years experience in the manufacturing of products by sewing and is author of “Industry Sewing Construction Methods” http://amzn.to/2yMxMmk. Her focus is on design, entrepreneurship; social enterprise; the connections between the environment, the apparel industry, and manufacturing; and how owners can leverage artistic methods to benefit their business.
