Everyone Needs a Support Network in Business

Entrepreneur Jonathan Fields expressed my sentiments exactly when he wrote: "There is absolutely nothing glorious or glamorous about starting a business.....While launching a startup is undoubtedly an exciting and liberating experience, managing the organization on a daily basis can be anything but a dream."

Yes, when you're calling the shots and your success is determined by your drive, motivation and perseverance, the game plan has got to be solid.  And that's why a solid support network is essential.  A network of supporters will carry you along when you feel like giving up.  They will give you encouragement and a swift kick when you need it.  

Here are the types of people you should have in your network according to Rich Mizner, owner of Celebrity Gyms 

Cheerleaders:  Cheerleaders are those individuals who rally behind your ideas and believe in you as an Entrepreneur through the initial start up struggles.  And they stick with you through thick and thin.

And one more thing to add to that from my perspective---make sure your cheerleaders range in age.  Now I know this can be a hard pill to swallow for those of us who have been there and done that and could probably teach our younger counterparts a thing or two but because there is a changing of the guard so to speak, we need to have some young people in our camp who can help us reach their market (if you're aiming for it). 

Role Model:  This is someone who leads by example. This person has paved the way to success and is guiding you to the promised land. 

The Expert:  Experts often provide the missing pieces for Entrepreneurs who are focused on, and anxious about, getting their business off the ground and keeping it afloat. And don't be intimidated by "youth."  Some of the most brilliant entrepreneurs I know are under the age of 40 so who better to learn from than someone whose already playing the game and WINNING? 

If you're fortunate to have your own support network that's awesome, however, if you don't try looking more closely at your inner circle or as Rich says, "...get out there and do more networking!"