The beauty of entrepreneurship and small business ownership is that you’re thrown in at the deep end and ultimately become a bit of an expert in all sorts of new roles.
But: where should you draw the line, and why should small business owners work with experts?
1: Niche equals efficiency
What might take you a protracted amount of time an expert could potentially do in half the time – and time is money. Experts know what to do, and how to do it. Fast(er). This vastly reduces the time it takes to complete tasks, and increases the odds of getting it right the first time too.
2: Unique perspectives mean unique outcomes
As well as a wealth of experience experts also offer unique perspectives on the smart way to complete the tasks required by their area of expertise. This means that by tapping into their knowledge bank you’re also tapping into the information you need to make the changes that will ultimately benefit you and your company.
3: Better knowledge leads to better ideas – and execution
This is a result of knowing what works and what doesn’t work, which means more impactful ideas and also carries through to the execution. Expert advice for small business owners means filtering out average ideas for the great ones that will lead to lasting, sustainable change for the business.
4: Experts expand your network
As coveted industry leaders, experts typically have a vast network of contacts, built up over time, which can be of great benefit to you and to your business. You will also find that nurturing a relationship with an expert focused on one area of your business invariably opens doors to working with experts for other areas of your business.
Growing networks organically has been a challenge since COVID shut down in person networking events so, when you get the chance to connect with professionals through an alternative route to the traditional cold LinkedIn DM: we highly recommend you jump at it.
5: Experts lend credibility
It can be incredibly difficult to build credibility within your industry when you’re trying to make a name for yourself starting from ground zero. Plus in recent years customers have become more inclined to limit the information they accept (and pass on) to trusted sources from names they recognise.
If you really want to get in the mix and show off what you can do, a great strategy is to seek endorsement from experts who can get you the kind of exposure your business needs. Their participation can also legitimise you in the eyes of your own customers, and boost your brand awareness as a result.
As a business owner building a personal and professional brand it may feel challenging to admit that you need help (and you may prefer to do things yourself rather than pay for expert services), but not doing so can also have a detrimental effect on your business – and its potential for growth.
