Building Support Networks
Who looks after your computer when it breaks down?
Who do you speak to when needing financial advice?
Who advises you about particular software to use, or where to get your printing done?
It is good to build a support network for your business as quickly as possible. This can be achieved by joining local business networks that are already in operation. In this way you get to meet other business owner/operators and find out who they rely on for stationery, printing, computer support, telecommunications, software and so on. Knowing that you have a ready group of suppliers means you can establish accounts to operate your business without necessarily having to pay out immediately upon needing something. Don’t forget that many of the supplies you use to operate your business could be charged to your clients as a reimbursable expense. This is particularly in the case of printing, stationery, postage and similar other items.
Where will you find these support networks? Try some of the following:
- Business Network International (BNI)
- Leads Club
- Local Chamber of Commerce
- Rotary
- Business Referral Groups
- Local council or country business groups
- Check your Yellow Pages for other membership based groups
Developing a support network around you as you develop your business will help bring in the expertise you need without having to engage employees to fulfil those roles that aren’t required on a fulltime or regular basis.
Hi Katie,
Thanks for linking me. I also put a link back to your site– really enjoying you design.
Your article gave me an idea to network with local business owners around my area. Right now im just networking with people online and it’s pretty helpful. Thanks for this tip!
Thea
Networking locally is so important Thea – not only for support networks as I outlined in this post, but also for developing your business locally. In this virtual day and age, people forget they can have local clients and it doesn’t all have to be online – although it can be conducted on line. My busiest client lives 5 mins’ drive from me but we rarely see each other face to face and deal via email 85% the time, fax and phone the rest of the time. Cheers!