Checking out the regular features in Inc.’s blog posts and
on Entrepreneur.com, needless to say one can find what one wants on just about
any subject having to do with starting something new, a new venture or
idea. So what if your new idea involves putting
yourself out there as an expert, a consultant to others, to share all that
wisdom and experience you’ve accumulated?
In his blogpost of August 2012, Scott Steinberg lists five tips to build your
business. Like so many other business
ventures, key is developing your niche, your key area of expertise that you can
provide like none other. Secondly,
relationships are a must. Knowing
people, expanding your network, and being sincere, genuine, helpful, and
knowledgeable goes a long way.
Steinberg also stresses selling results (what will they gain
as a result of your service?), being flexible, and always be “closing” or
making the ask of prospective clients.
Jennifer Merritt in Entrepreneur’s post of 2011
makes additional points: make a
reputation for yourself, while in an employed position, before striking out on
your own. She also suggests partnering
with an established company or firm, to enhance your name recognition and
client base, as well as reputation. And
lastly, as in Steinberg’s post, she emphasizes differentiating yourself among
others who are in the field.
Not only are you selling your knowledge, you’re selling your
trustworthiness, yourself as a person; and you must be entrepreneurial to seek
out the contacts, build your business, and close sales. It’s a hefty challenge to take on, but like
most entrepreneurial ventures, can result in great rewards (financial or
otherwise) to the passionate risk-taker!
Content
contributed by Maria Brown, SoMNSourceLink.
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a proud affiliate of U.S.SourceLink, America’s largest resource network
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