Enlisting Help from Other Business Owners

Enlisting Help from Other Business Owners - Help May be Closer Than You Think:

When you become a small business owner, you join a network of other entrepreneurs, mom-and-pops, and self-employed individuals who have a common bond. Ultimately, that's a resource that you shouldn't ignore, especially if you are just starting up a company. 

Rather than always turning to expensive marketing or research firms for answers, consider seeking the help of other companies and their owners first.

Why are Other Businesses Important?

Partnering with other businesses to host events, join forces, or just to seek help, can all impact your bottom line. Consider the benefits of working with other companies:

1. Work with established, reputable businesses to build your brand and garner endorsements.
2. Use resources available to others.
3. Form networks, friendships, and partnerships.
4. Expand your customer base.
5. Help often comes free.
6. Learn what other companies are (or aren't) doing.

 Networking Groups:

To go about seeking help or advice from other businesses, or to explore ways you can work together for marketing purposes, there are several ways to approach other small business owners. Try these ideas:

• Find out who the other business owners in the area are, and introduce them to your products and services.
• Despite how awesome your products and services are, "who you know" often matters most. Don't miss out on opportunities to meet new people or maintain existing relationships.
• Attend conventions, fairs, or workshops within your particular field of business to ensure that you know "who's who" and that you are also recognized as an expert in your industry.
• Host your own "meet and greet" or networking event if you're unable to attend others. Invite other business leaders who would benefit from partnerships or joint ventures to your event.

Ask for Help:

If you have a problem, chances are that other small business owners have come across it before, and have some suggestions. Instead of learning everything the hard way, it doesn't hurt to ask and listen to the stories of seasoned entrepreneurs who have "been there" and "done that." Learn from their mistakes and uncover the secrets of their success!

Find Out What Other Business Owners' Problems and Opinions Are:

Perhaps you can solve them, or fill a gap that isn't being filled. Perhaps the ideas they've been hoping to implement are ideas you have too, and you can work together.

• Ask their opinions on key local issues.
• Seek financial or other reports that may offer a basis for comparison.
• Find out if the business has a similar customer base to yours, or if they might be a potential client/customer of yours.
• Let other business owners do most of the talking.

Keep in Regular Contact With Local Business Owners:

As a newbie business owner approaching other businesses, t's important not to appear "all take and no give." Even if you feel as though you've got the information you wanted from a business owner, maintain a professional relationship. You never know when you might need advice in the future.

• Make a contact list/address book.
• Try hosting an "area owners" meeting or e-chat once a month.
• Send e-mails or make quick phone calls to check in every once in a while.
• Thank business owners who give you advice with a card or gift.

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What's Next

Next In This Guide
Part 24:
Business Card Marketing - Avoid boring, easy-to-toss business card styles with creative and effective business card marketing strategies for small businesses.

Previous In This guide
Part 22:
Joint Venture Marketing - Providing extra resources and connections, joint ventures are a smart marketing strategy for small business owners looking to expand.

Table of Contents
Street Smart Guide to Small Business Marketing

 

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