5 SIMPLE REASONS TO BUILD YOUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY
There is definitely something to be said for the independent streak that runs in so many creative entrepreneurs. After all, you need to have a pretty high level of autonomy to make tough decisions, deal with any challenges that arise and keep the motivation flowing. But no woman is an island! Human beings are social creatures, and we function at our best when we surround ourselves with other like-minded people who inspire us, motivate us and support us in our endeavours. Being part of a business community can help you grow exponentially, not just in a business sense (although that’s undoubtedly a key benefit), but also on a personal level.
5 REASONS TO INVEST IN YOUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY
THE BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF A BUSINESS COMMUNITY
No matter what type of creative business you have, it is absolutely essential to connect with other people in your industry ensure your business reaches its maximum potential. First of all, other people in your industry can share their experiences and ideas and teach you vital skills and knowledge that you need to build a solid foundation for your business. Secondly, collaborations with other people can provide you with opportunities and connections that you might not be able to find on your own. Moreover, the people in your community can give you a better sense of focus, drive and awareness that will push you forward to new levels.
Being part of a community is also important for your personal growth. Sure, you may have strong social networks of friends, family members and people in your neighbourhood, but they may not fully understand what you’re dealing with in your business. Other creative entrepreneurs may have gone through the exact same things as you, so they can offer a great deal of moral support when you’re going through tough times and guide you in the right direction when you’re feeling stuck. They can also hold you accountable to your goals and provide valuable feedback that can set you on a positive track. In return, you can offer your own feedback and mentorship, which will boost your confidence and self-esteem.
BE OPEN TO NEW PEOPLE AND EXPERIENCES
The first step to creating any sort of business connection is simply being open to meeting new people and experiences and putting in the effort to network. Keep your eyes and ears open for any conferences, discussion panels or networking gatherings that you can attend. Reach out to other people in your industry through local networking groups, social media or even directly to get a conversation going. You might even want to create an event yourself and invite other like-minded people for coffee once a month. We know that for some people it may be hard to put yourself out there, which may come down to a lack of confidence. But at the end of the day, what do you really have to lose by opening up and reaching out?
SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND SUPPORT
You may not be able to organise a networking event or attend every launch or networking gathering that comes up, but you always have something to contribute to others in the form of your knowledge and support. Don’t be afraid to share your insider tips and experiences with others either directly or through your online content. Follow your fellow Artists and Creative Entrepreneurs on social media and show your support by liking their posts, offering sincere compliments when merited, and sharing their content if it is relevant to your business and useful to your audience. Go the extra mile for others, and they will do the same for you.
TEAM UP WITH YOUR COMPETITION
It’s so easy to look at other people who are doing similar things to you and feel the jealousy and panic creeping in. After all, they’re your competition and therefore your mortal enemies right? But before you let the paranoia and insecurity take control, imagine how much more you could accomplish if you could work together with those people rather than against them. Instead of dwelling on the negatives, think about what it is you admire and respect about your competitors and then reach out to them in a positive and compassionate way. You’d be surprised what a little bit of kindness can accomplish. For example, if you are an artist, why not work to plan a group exhibition? At the very least you’ll come off looking like a community builder, and you may even plant the seeds for an amazing business collaboration that will boost both of your brands.
WELCOME NEW PEOPLE INTO THE FRAY
We’ve all had that uncomfortable experience of being new and not quite knowing how to fit in or whether or not you’ll be accepted by a new crowd. And how much relief and gratitude did you feel when someone went out of their way to offer their kindness and welcome you into the circle? By extending a helping hand you not only do a good turn for someone else, but you also open yourself up to new opportunities for learning and growth and strengthen your community by ushering in positive people who can add new energy and ideas to the mix. Plus, by teaching or mentoring someone else, you can actually gain more insight into the topic yourself and cultivate valuable leadership skills.
KEEP THE CONNECTIVITY FLOWING
Once you’ve made some solid connections and have a good business community going, it’s important to keep the momentum going so that you can truly reap the benefits of your combined knowledge and innovation. Keep in touch with the people in your network even if it’s just a quick email or message every so often to check in and say hello. Make time to meet people face to face if possible, and try to attend networking groups and gatherings as much as you can. Stay in the loop on various social media feeds and facebook groups and don’t be shy to offer your support when needed. The more connected and involved you are, the more you will learn and grow as a business and an individual.
