Growing online is no small feat—it's like spinning multiple plates at the same time. You're not just the creator of your product, service, or content - but also the marketer, the salesperson, the accountant, and so much more. While it can be empowering…so much of the time it's overwhelming! It's exhilarating but can also be overwhelming.
But you don't have to do it all on your own.
There are a few strategies to not having to handle it all…
Identify Your Needs
The first step towards easing your burden is understanding where you need help. Are you spending too much time managing orders and less time creating? Or maybe, you're struggling to keep up with the ever-changing world of social media marketing? Or maybe you just don’t feel like you know what legally you’re responsible for or not.
Identifying these pain points will help you figure out what aspects of your business you need support with.
Find A Helping Hand
Outsourcing doesn't mean you're not capable or competent—it simply means you're making a strategic decision to focus on what you do best.
When considering outsourcing, think about the return on investment. The hours you spend struggling with bookkeeping could be better spent designing your next product line or improving your services.
Finding the people to help you starts with having a clear idea of what they need to handle, if you need someone to manage your social media, you can expect them to have a strategy in mind for you, but you need to know what your goals are for social media!
Expand Through Education
Investing in a qualified course can be a game-changer for managing various aspects of your business. It's like acquiring a toolbox filled with skills and knowledge that can help you navigate the complex world of entrepreneurship. Whether it's learning about digital marketing to boost your online presence, understanding financial management to keep your accounts in check, or mastering project management to ensure smooth operations, a well-structured course can equip you with the insights you need.
Furthermore, such courses often provide practical examples and real-world scenarios that enable you to apply what you've learned directly to your business. You can go from managing it all, but knowing there’s a better way, to managing it all in an organized fashion.
Stay Up To Date
Set aside an hour a week to grow your knowledge. This time can be used to participate in a course you’re in, but also utilizing hundreds of thousands of free resources online! For instance, you could find a YouTube channel dedicated to SEO strategies, download an eBook on effective social media marketing, or read articles on financial management for small businesses.
The key is to be proactive in your search and discerning about the sources you learn from.
Look for content created by experienced professionals or reputable organizations in the field you're interested in. But remember, learning is not a sprint, it's a marathon. This regular commitment to learning can help you stay updated with industry trends, broaden your skill set, and provide fresh ideas to improve your business.
Get A Consult
Scheduling a consultation or coaching call with an industry expert from time to time can be an extremely cost-effective way to gain invaluable insights and guidance.
These professionals can provide tailored advice based on their extensive experience and knowledge, helping you navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions. They can offer fresh perspectives, uncover blind spots, and suggest innovative strategies that you might not have considered. Moreover, these sessions can serve as a valuable sounding board for your ideas and plans.
While there is a cost involved, it’s much less than hiring someone full or part-time.
Find Your Community
Online communities such as Facebook Groups and subreddits have become invaluable resources for individuals seeking advice, knowledge sharing, and support. These platforms are often populated by people with a shared interest or goal, creating a space where you can ask questions, share experiences, and learn from others.
Whether you're looking for guidance on a specific topic, troubleshooting a problem, or simply seeking different perspectives, these communities can offer a wealth of information and direction. Moreover, they foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, making the learning process less solitary and more engaging.
Remember, running a business is not a solo act. It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a team to grow a successful business.
You don't have to be a superhero to grow online, take it just a step at a time.