You don’t have to go it alone. You can find a great deal of help — much of it free — whether you’re transitioning to self-employment, facing new challenges in your existing business, or hoping to start or expand a company.
Over the years, I’ve noticed one big difference between successful entrepreneurs and those that fail is that successful people seek out good advice and listen to it. That’s not the only difference, of course, but I’ve known lots of business people who think they’re smart enough and know it all, but they aren’t and they don’t. Inevitably, those are the ones who have the most difficulty navigating change.
These are challenging times for small businesses, so it’s more important than ever to get help. Here are some outstanding sources:
• Small Business Devlopment Centers. I’m listing these first, because I think SBDCs are one of the country’s best-kept secrets and a terrific source of excellent quality help. In fact, I was once a client.
There are roughly 1,000 SBDC centers across the U.S., many of them located at community colleges. They provide in-depth one-on-one counseling to nearly a million entrepreneurs a year. Since SBDCs are funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, by law, this counseling is free!
At an SBDC, you can also take low-cost classes and workshops — to help you learn how to keep your books, do your marketing, create a business plan. SBDC offices also have libraries of business information and research sources.
• Trade associations. If you’re looking for information about your specific industry — and who isn’t? — one of the best sources is your own industry association. No matter what type of business you’re in, I’m betting there’s an association for it, especially since there are nearly 40,000 trade associations. Whether you’re a caterer, consultant, cartoonist, or canine cosmetologist, there’s an association for you.
Trade associations generally provide training, research data, vendor information, certification programs, and networking opportunities with others in your field. I’ve pulled together a list of some key associations at www.PlanningShop.com/associations.
• Local entrepreneurs and business organizations. In most communities, you’ll find a whole range of business groups with opportunities for you to meet with your fellow entrepreneurs and build your business. I met the contact that eventually led to my first book contract from a local entrepreneurs group!
Some local business groups are chapters of national trade associations. Others are designed just for networking, such as leads groups. In every community, you’ll find general business groups, such as Chambers of Commerce or Better Business Bureaus; in large cities, you’ll find ethnic or gender-based business groups such as the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. And there are always general civic groups such as Kiwanis or Rotary.
Fellow business people can be both a good source of business, referrals and networking. They’ll often have insight into local vendors and services. And being active in these groups is an excellent way for you to avoid the isolation that often comes from being your own boss.
• Community colleges, extension courses. Want to learn about software or management? You’ll find a range of short courses, certification programs, or one-day workshops at your local community colleges and university extension programs. These programs are typically very affordable and instructors are usually practicing professionals in their fields.
• SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives). SCORE is a nonprofit organization. SCORE has over 10,000 volunteers who are retired business owners or executives. They offer free counseling and have an extensive Web site.
• Books. I write books for entrepreneurs, so of course, I think they’re valuable. But books are indeed a fast, cheap, and convenient way to get business information and inspiration — especially if they’re from a reliable source. So check out your local bookstore, library, or buy online!
Rhonda Abrams is the author of “Six-Week Start-Up” and “What Business Should I Start?”
