Running Your Business Doesn't Have to be Lonely
Running a business can be so lonely. The only time that we will usually engage with other people is our clients, but even then you don’t tend to build super deep connections with your clients (although with some businesses you do)
It is easy to feel isolated and alone being a small business owner, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Some days I love working alone and other days I need to be able to bounce ideas off of others, get advice or have a little gossip (that is one thing I miss about the corporate world or being in full time employment).
There are a few ways to combat loneliness as a small business owner.
1. Networking groups
Pros
- Usually small groups that meet up regularly
- In person – so you actually get to see adults in the flesh.
- Usually only an hour or so
- Most charge fees for only meetings you attend
- You can set up your own very easily – You could create your own little networking group to meet up either in person or on zoom. Make it a set date and stick to it. Encourage attendees to share their wins. Invite a guest to give a short talk on a topic that is of interest to everyone in the group.
- A great way to meet local businesses – build relationships with them
Cons
- Not always conveniently timed (especially if you have kids)
- You have to buy your own coffee/refreshments
- You might have to travel a bit further than you would like – not always conveniently located
- Can be stuffy and formal
2. Online business, accountability, course, membership groups
Pros
- A great way to get to know fellow business owners worldwide.
- You can find groups for your niche – which will give you a great place to go for advice when you need it
- You might meet your BFF in a group – I did.
- Opens up opportunities to team up with awesome businesses you might not have found otherwise.
Cons
- If the group is large, it can be easy to be lost, or be scared to speak up.
- Small groups can become like a clique?
- Struggle to keep up to date if you don’t check the group daily.
3. Masterminds
Pros
- you build deep relationships with other like minded business owners
Cons
- it can be expensive
4. Virtual Coworking
Pros
- Usually small groups that meet up regularly
- In person – so you actually get to see adults in the flesh.
- Usually only an hour or so
- Most charge fees for only meetings you attend
- You can set up your own very easily – You could create your own little networking group to meet up either in person or on zoom. Make it a set date and stick to it. Encourage attendees to share their wins. Invite a guest to give a short talk on a topic that is of interest to everyone in the group.
- A great way to meet local businesses – build relationships with them
Cons
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5. In Person Coworking
Pros
- cheaper than working out of a coffee shop – as most coworking places offer unlimited tea & coffee.
- Community created with LOCAL business owners
Cons
- you have to get out of your pjs…or do you?
You can choose which works best for you! Don’t feel pressured to work in a way that is uncomfortable for you. That’s the beauty of being the business owner, you set your terms and choose how YOU want to engage with other people/businesses.
Interested in finding out more about coworking, read this series of posts
