Unlocking your success without the cost
Starting and growing a business can be quite the journey but it often comes with its fair share of challenges and can be a lonely experience. Fortunately, there’s a wealth of knowledge and expertise available to entrepreneurs at every stage – and much of it comes at no cost.
In this blog, we’ll explore the art of accessing, utilising, and maximising free advice for your start-up or growing business.
Tap into a gold mine of free advice
One of the greatest assets available to entrepreneurs is the community of experts willing to share their knowledge. Remember, someone was once where you are, no matter how much it seems they have it together today. You will often find that free advice is given in the spirit of paying it forward so don’t forget one good turn deserves another.
Whether you’re struggling with marketing strategies, financial planning, or navigating the complexities of insurance, there’s likely a specialist out there with valuable insights.
Where to find free advice
There are lots of different places where you can uncover a wealth of advice, the trick is to find what works best for you.
1. Online forums and communities
Engage with industry-specific forums or social media groups where experts and entrepreneurs share their experiences and advice.
2. Local business networks
Attend local networking events and join business associations. These platforms are often filled with professionals eager to offer guidance.
3. Government resources
There are a range of agencies and local authority resources and counselling for small businesses. Take advantage of these services for a better understanding of best practice and regulations, as well as a plethora of support and useful signposting.
For our local businesses, the following are great places to start:
- Southend on Sea City Council business pages
- Rochford District Council business pages
- South East Business Hub – BEST for business solutions
4. Mentorship programs
Seek out mentorship programs where experienced entrepreneurs offer guidance based on their own success and failures.
Making the most of free advice
1. Know your needs
Before seeking advice, identify the specific areas where your business needs guidance. Whether it’s refining your marketing strategy, managing finances more effectively, or understanding legal obligations, pinpointing your needs will help you focus on the right resources.
2. Build relationships
Approach the process as a relationship-building opportunity. Engage with experts genuinely, show appreciation for their advice, and consider forming ongoing connections. Building relationships in your industry can open doors to further opportunities down the line.
3. Have an open-mind
Be receptive to different perspectives. Sometimes it’s hard to hear advice but not all advice will be a perfect fit for your business. Staying open-minded allows you to cherry-pick the insights that align with your goals and values.
4. Implement actionable steps
Free advice is only valuable when put into action. After receiving guidance, create a plan with actionable steps. Set realistic goals and deadlines to ensure you’re steadily moving toward success. Be kind to yourself, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
5. Give feedback
If an expert’s advice proves particularly beneficial, let them know! Positive feedback not only shows gratitude but also strengthens your connection. It may even lead to further guidance or collaboration in the future. Positivity spreads!
Book your appointment at the business clinic
As a testament to the power of free advice, we’re hosting the Experts in Residence: Business Clinic, in conjunction with Southend-on-Sea City Council, Rochford District Council, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Essex Chambers of Commerce & Industry.
This event will bring together a diverse panel of experts covering marketing, PR, accounting, insurance, and more offering you a rare opportunity to access 1-2-1 time with brilliant business brains all in the same place at the same time.
Experts in Residence: Business Clinic
- Date: Tuesday 16th January 2024
- Time: 10am – 2pm (drop-in)
- Location: Launchpad Southend
Book your place today.
