Get into Business for Yourself but not By Yourself

This is a guest post by Sharon McMillan.

There are hundreds of headlines in major media, every week letting us know that we are living in uncertain economic times.

Yet the same media reports that it’s out of bleak economies that some of our greatest entrepreneurs have emerged. Industry stalwarts like Disney, Microsoft and Apple were all started during bad economies.

That tells me one thing.

It’s not recessions that doom companies; it’s bad decisions.

For me the real news today is that this is the time for entrepreneurs to shine—especially those who know how to utilize the knowledge and insight gained through the unique and unparalleled networking and mentorship communities available today.

The more realistic challenge for WAHM’s is being able to maneuver successfully through the mind-field of information out there and to ensure that they’ve got the right data and advice to make wise business decisions for their home based business.

Educating yourself on your business through books and courses is an excellent start but that will only give you the content that you need to operate your business and serve your customers well.

Insight into the challenges and opportunities of your particular business often comes from your peers—the fellow business owners in your sector or industry.  This is why networking and mentorship is so valued by entrepreneurs today.

A trusted peer or mentor who is able to tell you about the pitfalls or opportunities of a particular strategy, based on their experience, can save you money and in some cases possibly even your business.

In a thriving networking group for your type of business, you’ll be surrounded by many peers who understand the kinds of questions and challenges you may be facing.  That’s why it’s important to choose networking groups carefully.

Look for a “mentorship” and networking group that has been around for a while and that has a solid reputation in your business community. Some purely networking groups only offer a forum for connecting with peers.  Organizations that offer “mentorship” will often include coaching and real expert advice and resources for members.

It’s one thing to connect with peers at the same stage as you are in your business journey.  It’s quite another thing to connect with and learn from “mentors” who are leading business owners in your field and who can share with you proven techniques, strategies and best practices for your business.

That’s gold and that’s a strategy that will help you to not only launch your business the right way but also operate your business for long term success.

Sharon McMillan is owner of New Urban Mom and Community Manager for Mom Masterminds, a mentoring and networking membership for work at home moms.