Launching your own startup is getting easier and easier. If you’ve got a great idea and the drive to push forward, you can make it succeed. Many people who launch startups come from non-business backgrounds and no experience of running a business, let alone how to make it grow. One of the best ways you can expand your startup is to learn from others. Read on for more information about using the experiences of fellow entrepreneurs as inspiration for your own business.
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Read books and memoirs
Books can be a great way to learn more about starting your own business and overcoming the challenges you might face. Reading first-hand accounts of the processes, stresses, and successes of entrepreneurs across a variety of industries can give you a burst of inspiration. Entrepreneur has a great list of books you should read for 2017 which includes authors on a range of subjects relating to business. You could also use books as a way to learn more about the different elements of running your business, like the marketing or managing your staff. Next time you need some food for thought, pick up a book and wait for the ideas to come.
Attend talks and seminars
If you have an entrepreneur that you admire, why not hear them speak? Many entrepreneurs and business leaders will host talks or lectures offering attendees advice and insight into launching a startup or setting up a business. These sorts of events can also be great places to meet new people and network, and you never know what might come out of it. If you can’t physically be present at a talk or lecture, there are some fantastic podcasts and webcasts featuring some great speakers. Talks like those by businessman Steven Voudouris offer inspiring stories and advice that you can listen to on the move. Save some to your bookmarks and listen the next time you’re traveling or at the gym.
Find a mentor
Having a mentor is another good way to get advice and to have someone guide you towards your goals. Your mentor could be someone you know who’s successful in their field or could be someone that you decide to approach, such as a business professional like Vincent Albert Gentilozzi. According to Forbes, it’s now easier than ever to find a mentor – you just need to set the wheels in motion to make it happen. Make sure that you establish a plan of what you want to talk about and when as this will help you to make the most of both yours and your mentor’s time and give you some clear objectives.
Seeking advice from others is one way to learn what you need to grow your business. Another way you can help to grow your business is through educating yourself. Supporting your business through learning is a smart move to learn the ins and outs of running your business and help you become a better business owner. You should always seek to learn new things when running a business to help you stay ahead, and encourage the same behavior among your employees too.