Do you have difficulties in business? Try to stay afloat? Do you know why? Is it the lack of capital or professional skills? Do you network with other corporate owners? Otherwise, why not? Ask yourself what works for you … and then keep it. If it does not work, drop it out and try something else.

Business networking is an inexpensive way to get new customers, referring and train alliances that have mutual benefits with other business owners. Networking has produced more than 70% of my activities in the last 3 years. Social media, articles and e-books I wrote produced the 30% of others. I do not advertise in newspapers, magazines, radio or television. I do not make any mailbox drops. I use business cards, Facebook and LinkedIn to promote myself and my business. The only promotional costs for me are breakfast, lunch or dinner at the various networks I assist.

People do business with me because we train personal relationships. We ask ourselves questions from each other. If we like what the other person says, and we think there is a good fit, we choose to hire everyone’s skills when required. We also actively promote everyone’s businesses and we refer potential customers to each other. Networking can be a real winning / winning situation when done correctly. A good networker will attract customers because they ask questions, listen carefully and show a real interest for people.

A good business mentor can also be an excellent asset. They can tell you in the right direction and guide you all the way. They will lead you by hand and show you how to operate your business for you, instead of working for that.

However, make sure to hire a mentor, that they have experience in managing a business. There are many business coaches without the “hands on” experience. Would you engage a builder who had never built a house? Or an accountant who had never made a tax return? The worst error you can do is lock a contract with a mentor that has a certificate, but no real substance to save it.

When hiring a professional, always look for someone who has been there and do what you need. This does not mean you have to pay the best dollar for all your tasks. Subcontracting such as web design, social media, videos, newsletters, presentations and accounting can be very inexpensive, even for the little guy, if you take the time to look around from you. Even accounting can be sent off.