Want better outcomes? Collaborate!
As a sole proprietor whose consulting business focuses on communications and marketing, I have discovered that bringing in others with different skill sets and expertise helps me accomplish my goals quicker, teaches me about areas I am not particularly versed in, and makes me feel like I am a CEO of a major Fortune 500 company! Having outside professionals get involved in my projects and business goals gives me a lesson in other areas of business that I’m not so good at (think a mini-MBA program), it offers me important perspectives and different points of view (it’s good to have a sounding board other than my four walls), and connects me to others who empower me to think bigger and attempt more (shout out to my team of collaborators who make me better!)
My question to you is: How much are you collaborating with others to get things done?
Collaborating is not a new concept, and it doesn’t stop at work. It’s an important tool to access in areas outside work. If you have two or more people in your organization, they (hopefully) are having natural, organic, and collaborative experiences throughout the day. It usually starts by, “Hey, can I ask you something?” But what if you are like me: A small business owner who works from home who doesn’t have someone down the hall to bounce ideas off of. Can you still receive the benefits collaborating offers? ABSOLUTELY! It just takes a little effort on the front end.
If you are looking to increase your number of employees without the overhead costs, consider:
- A Fractional Trusted Advisors Group. Fractional Advisors are a diverse group of professionals who help you grow your business in relationship with your goals. This team (of which you are also a part of) serves as a free resource that you can access. The idea is to meet with your group of 10 or so people once a month to discuss issues, concerns, technologies, and more. The goal is for you to glean insights and grow your knowledge in a variety of areas. Anything from finance to investments to legal advice, and even insurance. Think about the people in your circle who offer a different set of skills than yours and start to build your own advisors group.
- Network. It is so important to find strategic partners to work with you and for you by referring new clients your way. It’s the old adage of: You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours. Find fellow professionals who share similar values and work at helping each other find new business through your contacts. Perhaps host your own networking event where you ask everyone in your circle to invite two of their clients, who also invite two of their clients. Open your circle – there’s enough room for everyone!
- Give a little. Get more. Offer your own services for a one-time pro bono consult, or provide ongoing education courses. I do offer a free month Marketing 101 training through HCC to not only give back and offer free advice, but to help me spread my brand.
I look forward to collaborating with you. Give me a call to discuss ways that we can work together to build your business and brand.
