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I once had a business professor who had never actually owned a business. His teachings and lessons were based entire on experience in the academic world. Even with my limited knowledge at the time, this seemed counter-intuitive. How can someone teach about small business if they have never done their time in the trenches?
Indeed, experience is usually the best teacher, and it can produce some great teachers as well. Nowhere is this truer than in small business. Real life experience is the only kind of experience that matters in this field, which is why a small business mentor can be such a valuable resource.
There are a few places where small business mentors abound. First, look at the community you are operating in, whether this is a niche market on the internet or the town in which you live. While it will be difficult to get one of your competitors to let you in on all of their trade secrets, you should be able to find someone in a similar but not competing field who is willing to take the time to offer advice and encouragement. Most small business owners are heavily invested in their community, and you are a part of that community. In addition, most are aware that a former mentoree can become a valuable resource later.
Second, look online. Social networks may be a good place to identify and approach potential mentors. In addition, there are several free online sites that specialize in matching up mentors and people who need them. Check out www.micromentor.org and related sites. Many of these act as a sort of ‘dating service’, matching interested parties by field, location, and similar factors.
What makes a person a good mentor? First, they should already have achieved success—however you define that—in small business. Second, they should have time to talk to you on a regular basis. This doesn’t have to be ‘in person’; you can also communicate via phone or email if there are barriers with location or scheduling. Last, try to choose a mentor who is involved and has diverse contacts. These people will be a huge help because they can make introductions and guide you further into the small business community.
Once you have a mentor, make the most of your relationship. Ask them how they handle certain situations that have been giving you trouble. Offer to help in their business pro bono if this would help you understand a key process or concept. Moral support is important, but make sure your relationship is centered on improving your skills as a small business owner.
Hopefully you will reach a point in your business career where you are experienced and confident enough to go it alone. At this point, your mentor may continue to help, or simply become a valuable contact in the corporate world. You may even want to consider becoming a mentor yourself. After all, there are always new small business owners who need guidance and support from someone who knows how to achieve success.
