Running your own business can be isolating. One of the biggest challenges when working for yourself is losing your business tribe. Being able to discuss work-related issues with a team of people who share your experience is immeasurably valuable, not only for your business growth but also for your sanity.
We all need a supportive business tribe to talk things through with, especially when running your own business. The tricky thing is that these tribes don’t seem easy to come by. Luckily there are three simple things you can do to start building your small business tribe.
How to Build Your Small Business Tribe
Reach Out
The key thing to remember when you are facing any struggle in small business is that you are not alone. Other business owners have been through exactly what you’re going through and can help, so reach out to them. Join business groups on Facebook and share your struggles, you might be surprised by how many people can relate.
Show Up
While Facebook networking and online connections are a great start to build your business tribe, nothing can compare to the connection and support that comes with face to face relationships. Once you have found some like minded business owners that you would like to know better, find a way to see them in reality.
I’m not saying you should start showing up on their doorstep. There are plenty of ways that you can make face to face connections without resorting to creeping around their house. Are they are headed to an event near you? Buy a ticket. Do they run a business mastermind or networking event? Ask if you can join. If you think your connection with them is strong enough, find a way to connect.
I have so many meaningful relationships that started this exact way, with either me seeking out someone I admired or someone asking me to connect with them in person. It truly works and, as long as you’re upfront about it, isn’t creepy in the slightest.
Don’t Settle
Lastly, remember that your business tribe will only be as helpful as its members. If you want to succeed in business and grow, you have to surround yourself with people who inspire you to do so. If your tribe is made up of people with negative attitudes and no drive they will likely be holding you back more than if you didn’t have a business tribe at all.
Know what kind of business owner you want to be and surround yourself with strong people who have a similar vision. In other words, don’t settle for a tribe that will let you down.
Having a community to support and encourage you is what will put you ahead in small business. As soon as you find your tribe you will see the positive effects on your business growth, success, and mental health.
A great place to connect with small business owners is my Facebook group, the Australian Business Collaborative. Join it and introduce yourself to a community of over 5000 members, all looking for their own small business tribe. Click here for more useful blogs.
Have an awesome day,
Angela
