Quick—name 5 readily available resources you can access to expand your business competencies (by competencies, we mean the technical and functional knowledge and skills you require to sell your products and services, or to successfully interact with clients and customers).
If you’re hesitating, let’s back up a step, and name your needs instead. While individual requirements will vary, most business people must have these essentials:
1. A financial plan. You’re probably great at running your own household, but whether you’re starting a business or expanding one, it’s very different when you’re relying on customers to generate revenue and pay your business bills.
a. Do you know how to project how much income you must generate not only for your business, but also to keep your family afloat?
b. Do you know what financial information you must provide for lenders or investors that you ask to help fund your business?
c. Do you know basic financial management strategies, and/or can you use business software? If you hire a bookkeeper or CPA, will you understand the statements they’ll give you?[1]
2. A business plan. At the minimum, you need a statement of your goals or mission; a definition of your target demographic; and a plan for outreach and marketing. Once you’ve created your plan, you must update it to keep pace with changes in the economy and community.
3. A market research survey. Before you can compete, you must know who or what you’re competing with. Do you know who your competition is? What are their strengths and weaknesses? What are yours?
4. A network. Businesses seldom thrive in a vacuum. Where will find a mentor if you need one? How will you connect with peers, competitors, and potential customers? Where will you find professional help for any business competencies you require?
Now that we’ve listed your business needs, let’s try again to name those business resources. If you’re unsure where to turn, consider joining the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce. We can help, and here’s how:
1. With your financial plan: The Chamber provides Business and Entrepreneur Tools for our members, including a Business Owners Guide and other resources for start-up, growth, and mature companies. We’ve got expertise in sales execution, financial loans and funding, legal and risk management strategies, and much more.
2. With your business plan: The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce offers programs designed to help you develop and refine your business plan. We have special programs for entrepreneurs, women, and young professionals, and our Chamber University hosts seminars and other learning opportunities.
3. With your market analysis: Look to your Chamber for the news and publications you need about our region’s demographics, community issues, businesses, and leaders. Read our annual financial report and business development plan to understand your competition and peers. We also advocate at the local, state, and national levels, to help you stay informed on issues that affect you.
4. With a network: With over 700 members and growing, the Chamber is your best source for networking. You’ll meet know potential customers, clients, and other business people at our signature events, like our annual Golf Classic and Big Expo. Attend our monthly networking events, such as our Early Bird Forum or Business After Hours, to share knowledge and expertise, develop relationships, and make new friends.
We’ve got the resources you need to grow your business expertise and bottom line. Join your Newnan –Coweta Chamber of Commerce today, and put our know-how to work for you.
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