In the game of life, I believe we are all doing the best we can with the information and understanding currently in our hands. In order to become a better parent, or improve athletic skills, or even deal with an addiction, we may need some help.
Sometimes, we can lend a hand, and sometimes we need a hand.
This applies to our business skills, too. I wish we learned business skills in sixth grade. Imagine taking middle school courses in business planning, accounting, communications, marketing and operations.
Perhaps that would have helped me avoid so many of the business mistakes I have made.
However, even in college, my courses didn’t really align with what I encountered in our family plumbing business. Sometimes, we need to get some help.
The good news: Help is available. You can learn what you don’t know. If you are stuck, you can get unstuck.
Just know that, as Einstein said, “No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it.” So, let’s explore the spectrum of help available, from a little to a lot.
Google itStart with an online search.
Go to
Amazon.com and look for books that address your business challenge. Check out
YouTube.com, and see if someone else already has solved your operational challenge and uploaded an instructional video. Or get over to the library or the bookstore.
A book, CD or Web article or video may be what you need to get fired up or to fix a specific challenge.
If you need more help, consider raising your level of involvement.
Take a classA good class will introduce you to a system and give you an opportunity to role-play it. Be sure to buy the trainer’s CDs and videos at the class to use for follow-up training.
Classes are great for helping you develop formal sales, marketing, operating and technical systems. The solidarity of a group may provide the support you are missing. Maybe a webinar program may be a good fit.
Don’t buy more help than you need. But if the book stays on the shelf, the CDs remain in the wrapper, and the class homework is still not done – consider getting more help.
Hire a consultantA consultant will work with you one on one, and create a personalized plan to resolve a problem or capitalize on an opportunity. Research consultants online, and look for testimonials.
When you have a consultant in mind, meet on the phone and clarify your situation and needs.
Look for appropriate recommendations, and expect to see a written proposal with a clear scope of work.
For instance, if you need help getting your financial house in order, make sure you’re clear on what that is, and what it will look like when the work is done. Know how much it will cost to get there, and call previous clients and ask about their experiences with the consultant.
Investigate your options. Don’t just throw money at the problems.
If you are getting the right help, and taking action on it, the result will be more money, better relationships and expanding freedom. So often, you are the one people go to for help. Why not allow yourself to get some help?
Ellen Rohr is an author and business consultant who offers systems for getting focused and organized, making money and having fun in business. Her books include “Where Did the Money Go?” and “The Bare Bones Weekend Biz Plan.” She can be reached at ellen@barebonesbiz.com.[[In-content Ad]]
