Jodie Webber of BOB Marketing and TBC Enfield writes:
Running your own business can be tough, it can be lonely, it can be exciting, it can be challenging, it can be rewarding… it can be soooo many things! Chuck into the mix the fact that you are also juggling the responsibility of bringing up a well-rounded little person (or little people) and there’s one hell of a lot of pressure, plate spinning (sometimes smashing!), juggling, prioritising, feeling amazing, feeling inadequate, feeling…. Well, the whole spectrum!
In this day and age where we are told by the media we can ‘have it all’, it’s no wonder that many parents are rejecting the return to work and being bold… stepping out into the world of business for themselves. And if that is you – big congratulations and well done! The problem (in my opinion) is, our media only seems to report the success stories, and it’s only once you decide to embark on your new journey into the world of running your own business, that you realise it’s not enough to have a fantastic idea and see the gap in the market.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to scare you! Having your own business is utterly fantastic (one of the best feelings in the world!). But in the same way as being a parent, it can also be daunting, exhausting, frustrating, over-whelming, throw you curve balls, and at times you might question what you are doing!
There’s an African proverb that says ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ meaning that a community of people must interact with children for them to experience and grow in a safe and healthy environment… And the same can be said of starting your business!
As parents, we rely on a whole support network of people when we start out (and as we grow)… from family members, midwives, friends, neighbours, nursery teachers, baby groups – the list goes on! Why then, when you start your own business do you think that you should be able to take everything on yourself?
Networking, building business relationships, and being part of a ‘business community’ is such invaluable support when you are in the early days of business. It’s great to have a community to share, support, advise and celebrate with!
And once you have a connection with other local businesses, you will find that you not only have a ‘village’ you can turn to for advice, help and support, but also a mini-marketing team, that will shout your praises, offer you referrals, and promote you to others.
There are so many networking groups and business forums out there, you will find one that suits you as a person, and your business… you just need to find it! If you are thinking about starting out in business or are a relatively young business, I highly recommend looking for a group (or groups) to connect with. Much the same as parenting, we were all new to it once, and needed the help and guidance that the ‘village’ can offer – people are more than happy to share their experiences and expertise – you just need to ask!
Come and join an amazing “Village” here at TBC – it’s most definitely a #TeamThang – join today!
