Who’s On Your Team?

When I first came up with the idea of starting my own business, I knew I couldn’t launch it without the help of others with areas of expertise different than my own. What did I know about branding, developing a website, or creating a logo? I knew how to operate a phone, but web cameras, Skype and other technologies to enhance remote communications were a mystery to me.  I also knew that I would need a sounding board from time to time in order to create and build a first-rate business.    

This is where my friends and family came in. I call them my advisory team. They are my brain trust. Several of them are successful small business owners themselves and each of them is someone I respect and can trust to have my best interests at heart and to offer opinions without judgment.  

So here are my questions for you: Do you have an advisory team, be it of several folks or of one? If so, are the folks in it providing you the nonjudgmental support you need to learn and grow? If not, has something been holding you back from forming one? 

In today’s especially challenging economy, it is more appropriate than ever that each of us be in charge of our own professional futures. Even if we are an employee of someone else’s business, we are still the CEO of ourselves. With even one trusted advisor in your address book, when those times come along–and they always do–when you need a second, trusted opinion about a course of action to take, your friend, family member, co-worker, pastor, or professional coach will be there to provide you the support you need.  

Suggested Action Item:  In December, as President-Elect Obama names the individuals on his team, I hope you’ll think about who you’d like on yours.