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We've all seen the TV ads promoting get-rich-quick seminars that supposedly reveal the secrets of business. Some people will get rich from these events-and you just know they'll be the ones behind the podium. But these seminars exist because they touch a nerve with a lot of people who are simply trying to figure the details of running a business.
Fortunately, getting business help and training doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg, require walking over hot coals, or mean sitting in an arena that will be used for a monster truck rally the following evening. In fact, getting the training and advice that will help your business grow can be very inexpensive and may be closer than you think. Below is our quick guide to two places to start: a great government counseling program, and business classes and workshops found in most communities.
Believe it or not, the government can provide help when you're not sure where to turn. And since these are services you've already paid for with your taxes, why not use them?
One of the best-kept secrets of all time may be the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program. If you haven't heard of this federal program, you may be surprised to learn that SBDC offices are where Uncle Sam provides extensive services for new and small businesses. Make an appointment for counseling, and an expert will answer your questions about things like business management, marketing, business plan creation, and funding. Most of these classes are free, and women business owners will find additional resources with the SBA's Women's Business Center program. The SBDCs and WBCs even provide extensive information about small business grants the federal government offers-along with just about anything else connected to running a small business.
All of this can be very helpful in deciphering information you can find through other government information resources. On the state level, for example, your secretary of state's Web site will have exhaustive information about incorporation, permits, and regulations. The same goes for the city, town, or municipality where you plan to do business. And if you get information overload, you can just ask the SBDC.
Local SBDC offices also provide a range of workshops covering diverse subjects from time management to networking. Program offices are found throughout the country, and both in-person and telephone counseling sessions are available.
SBDC offices aren't the only places where you can get both overviews and specific information about important business topics. Most communities provide numerous classes on a range of business subjects. Yes, many of us resist the idea of going back to school for further training and information. But consider that training typically makes better entrepreneurs. According to a recent study by the prestigious Kaufman Foundation, 32 percent of successful entrepreneurs had taken at least five business classes, while only 18 percent of unsuccessful entrepreneurs had taken these kinds of courses.
Check out the possibilities for training and education at:
These schools are likely to offer whatever training and information you think you may need-like a how to get a better grip on marketing principles or how to negotiate a commercial lease. But to help you get the most out of classes and seminars, be sure to ask yourself a couple of questions:
You may not need an entire term in a classroom to get certain kinds of information or training. That's why workshops and seminars offered by community colleges, university extension campuses, and adult education programs may just be the ticket for you. No, not the kind of seminars we mentioned earlier with the smiling presenters addressing crowds in stadiums and large hotel ballrooms. Usually the seminars we're talking about are short sessions presented by an expert for a couple of hours. For example, an attorney might give a short seminar on the pros and cons of operating your business as an LLC.
Sometimes a short session won't do-particularly if you really want a deeper understanding of a particular subject, or want to refresh your math skills. Then you may need regular classroom instruction.
This is a pretty important consideration. Most budding entrepreneurs usually have busy schedules and are often working regular jobs while getting ready to go into business for themselves. If you're thinking about taking advantage of what's offered at a community college, university extension campus, or adult education program, you may be best off taking only one class in a term.
Other options for busy people include night classes or courses taught online. The great thing about an online class is that you have control over when you're learning, rather than having to go to a particular place at a fixed time.
Business groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and their local chapters provide classes, training, and certification for companies of all sizes. In addition, these groups offer great opportunities to network with other business owners. Plus, the people who staff these places can point to other places with training and classes you may need. Yearly dues for these groups are usually just a few hundred dollars.
Also consider industry-specific trade groups. You name the kind of business and there's probably an organization for it. For example, the National Pest Management Association provides information and training for entrepreneurs in the extermination business. Take a look online and you'll be sure to find the appropriate organization for your business-which may have a local chapter near you.
As we mentioned earlier, glitzy seminars attract people because many new entrepreneurs have a general sense that they need more information about running a business. But you'll be much better off if you make the effort to identify what you need to know to be a better entrepreneur.
As you go over your business plans, make note of areas where you sense you may have difficulty running your new venture. While a class on real estate opportunities in Tahiti might sound interesting, is it something that will have an impact on your business? Ask other JumpUp users. Talk to counselors at community colleges. Ask your friends. But try to avoid anything that gets promoted on late-night TV.
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