“To think well and to consent to obey someone giving good advice are the same thing” – Herodotus Starting a business can be daunting, but that doesn’t deter people from launching successful businesses every year. Although all ventures do not ‘take off’ as planned, those of which do succeed, typically spend significant time raising capital, doing market research and developing a realistic business plan before launching their new company. Of course, careful preparation isn’t an absolute guarantee of success, but it can improve your chances enormously. A major part of that preparation involves getting good advice to hone your entrepreneurial skills and here are some avenues which will take you towards the best advice you can get!
- Indulge in networking – More often than not, people who are part of our network system have the required knowledge to guide us when the need arises. Continue to network and build relationships across your industry. Conferences and professional events can be invaluable when you are looking for advice in sync with the current times. Networking is all about putting yourself out there–but it’s important to remember that making a nuisance of yourself is no way to win friends, influence people and ask for sound advice when required. Seek counsel from professionals- They help entrepreneurs decide their goals as well as provide guidance in utilizing the finances effectively to support their goals. Seeking advice from professionals helps the entrepreneur to make a sensible decision about reaching their main goal. However, be careful not to surround yourself with flatterers, but also don’t entertain too many doubters in your orbit. Seek counsel from those who can encourage but also offer constructive criticism.
- Put your faith in a trusted mentor- It can be a family member, former boss or colleague or even a trusted online source or blog. A mentor is an invaluable sounding board – someone who’s been where you are; someone with whom you can have regular, non judgmental check-ins. Mentors do have a significantly positive impact on businesses.
- Learn from your failures – Don’t be afraid to fail; failure is a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey; in fact, it is the best silent advice in its own way! As long as you learn from your failure, – the Dos and the Don’ts’ -it doesn’t have to define you.
- Leverage the power of technology – Seek feedback and data wherever possible, including research into key competitors. See what works and what doesn’t work for other ventures in your field. Use public speaking opportunities, blogging, guest blogging, social media, or video. Though not directly, the figures and statistics will empower you with the most relevant advice.
Himanshu
Ruby Sinha
Avtar Madan
