Entrepreneurship is a rewarding experience and also difficult at times. But there's one thing we've learned after two years of pandemics, it's that humans prosper in communities. The problem is that loneliness isn't simply unpleasant; it can also be harmful to one's health. When no one else in your life has faced the challenges of running a business, it's easy to feel isolated, as if you don't have the support you need to succeed.
That's where your professional network comes in. Building a strong professional network may equip you with the resources you need to step up to the plate and meet any business situation head-on. To begin, here is the importance of community as a business owner:
1. Collaboration and growth thrive in communities
I can't tell you how many times I've shared a project and received a piece of feedback that completely transforms it. Having a fresh set of eyes on your work is almost always certain to improve it if you're having trouble finding the appropriate words or simply can't put your thumb on what's lacking.
Collaboration, in my opinion, produces the best results. For a business owner, however, this is not always practicable. One of the most difficult aspects of starting a own startup is making decisions on your own. You won't have somebody to bounce ideas off of or who can offer guidance. You can vent to your family and others, but you may not be able to do so realistically.
Many online and offline communities allow you to ask others for help, whether it's finding the right words to deal with a difficult client or checking your work before submitting it. Furthermore, growth does not occur in a vacuum. You can find a dreamy new partnership or expand your client base when you're a part of a community. However, you should enter any community with the intention of adding as much value as possible, not merely taking from others.
2. It improves your accountability
Running clubs and group chats exist for a reason: It's harder to hold others accountable and to be held accountable by others than it is to keep yourself accountable.
If I had to predict why so many individuals quit their dreams before they even begin, I'd argue that leaving them for later is a big factor. And, in my opinion, any entrepreneur needs discipline and self-reliance. However, having a group of peers cheering you on and keeping track of your success is a great motivator.
One of the most important aspects of masterminds and other business communities is sharing goals and revisiting them periodically. Many young entrepreneurs require this spark to stay on track when no client is pressing them to complete the task.
3. You'll have a safe haven in tough times
Things occur. When they do, you'll need a safe haven to return to. Whether you're unsure about a prospect's red flags or concerned about a client problem, your community is the ideal place to post a message and obtain useful, real-time input from others who have likely faced similar situations.
Your community is the ideal place for you to express your grievances or have your concerns about entrepreneurship, business partnerships, and everything else under the business. On the other hand, it's also a great place to return to when things are going well. It's all about striking a balance!
As a business owner, how do you establish a nurturing community?
Showing up is the first step in discovering your community. The procedure can vary depending on your business, but in general, you'll want to discover a variety of groups with whom you share common interests or services. Researching LinkedIn or Facebook groups in your niche, or asking your colleagues for recommendations, is a fantastic place to start. If you want to meet local business owners, you can also contact your local councils.
After that, consider going to networking events. I understand how uncomfortable these can be. They don't have to be, though. These types of events may be hosted by coworking spaces and other small businesses in your region. If your location lacks networking opportunities, consider hosting your own. Tuesdays Together, a feature of Honeybook, is an example of creating a space for like-minded entrepreneurs to connect.
Community in a nutshell
Finally, you won't meet someone from your dining table if you work from home. As a result, put yourself out there. Literally. Rent a workstation at a coworking space or go to a local coffee shop and strike up a discussion. This will provide you the opportunity to network with other businesses or creatives in a relaxed, non-staged environment.
Starting and running a business is difficult enough. You don't have to make things more difficult by doing it alone. The people you associate with can have a significant impact on how you approach entrepreneurship.
Shellye is committed to helping people from diverse backgrounds to achieve their aspirations in careers and life. The content published above was made in collaboration with our members.
Shellye Archambeau is determined to help you with all possible strategies to climb the ladder of success. She values your feedback. Do mention them in the comment section below.