Think “small business” and the idea of selling goods or services for profit immediately comes to mind. However, within a few months of establishing Admin Bandit, I realised that running your own business could be about far more than being my own boss and making (hopefully) a wheelbarrow load of money. What could be better than that? I had a lightning bolt moment when I participated in a business mentoring program through what is now Canberra BusinessPoint and not long after won a grant to see a private business coach. Yes, I was still in business to become an entrepreneur and make a livelihood, but I realised my journey was not just about me as an isolated individual trying to get a business off the ground — I was part of a wider community comprised of other small business owners, government advisory services, private consultants, and an array of associations and peak bodies dedicated to supporting people like me. And every single one was a potential wealth of information to help me grow. For any ancient history fans, the concept of mentoring harks back to Homer’s The Odyssey, in which the heroic Odysseus (you may know him better by his Roman name, Ulysses) has a wise advisor and trusted friend named Mentor. Let me suggest a new definition, one that is broader and more collaborative. What if I said mentoring is about engaging with the business community; that is, exchanging information, ideas and resources to the benefit of all involved? I stress the word “exchanging” because I believe mentoring is a two-way street — just as you receive, it’s important to give. You may not realise it, but you have an abundance of experiences, ideas and skills to share … even providing a willing ear, a burst of humour during a tough time or leaving a comment on a blog is a form of mentoring. My definition of mentoring leads to an enriched experience for all. Let’s face it, a mad dash for money does not bring happiness, but active and genuine participation in a business community results in better business practice, a sense of fulfillment and increased financial reward (hey, it has to come in somewhere).
I was part of a wider community comprised of other small business owners, government advisory services, private consultants, and an array of associations and peak bodies dedicated to supporting people like me.
What’s more … it’s fun. Given that small business owners in the start-up phase work up to 12 hours a day, seven days a week, you might as well enjoy yourself! Okay, it’s all very good to spout off theories of mentoring, but how does one actually get involved? Here are some easy ideas:
- Google search your local government-run small business advisory service and access their (often free) services, workshops and courses
- Join a club, organisation or peak body that represents your field … and actually go to the meetings and events
- Read blogs … and leave useful comments and click on related links
- Go to seminars, conferences, awards nights, openings, workshops and talks … and pluck up the courage to talk to people
- Become Facebook friends with people you admire, but always send a message first introducing yourself and explaining that you want to keep in touch with what they’re doing.
With any of the above, it goes without saying to carefully match mentoring activity not just with your business, but also with your values and personality — before you jump in, think about the qualities you’re looking for in an organisation, coach or trainee. And finally, should you pay to be a mentor or to be mentored? For a well-respected professional consultant or business coach, my answer is “yes”. And for anyone else who freely gives of themselves and their time, write a personal “thank you” note, shout coffee or lunch while you gain their wisdom or send a small token of your appreciation afterwards.
