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You can help other entrepreneurs develop

Some people already have a fantastic support network of friends, family and like-minded entrepreneurs in place. If you’re that fortunate franchisee or entrepreneur, establishing a wider business support network can help you guide less fortunate people. A support network isn’t about just taking. It’s a mutual endeavour to keep yourself and other businesspeople from feeling alone.

If you’re lucky enough to not need extra support, you could establish a welcoming network for others that struggle to speak up and ask for help. You’ll get the satisfaction and pride of helping others flourish in their career and could also build useful professional contacts to help you grow your business even more. You might also discover that fellow entrepreneurs who need support could be bursting with innovative advice and ideas. All it takes is a bit of encouragement for those who are doubtful to reveal their true potential.

You won’t have to suffer in silence

The number one reason why you need to build a strong business support network is so that you never have to go through adversities alone. Many of us struggle to reach out and get the help we need. Establishing a network that regularly checks in with each other will give you the chance to speak out, without having to take the scary step of making the first contact.

Try and get into the habit of checking in with everyone at least once a week. Whether you’ve set up a group of local entrepreneurs, contribute to a wider business group or just maintain a network of great friends, it’s helpful to catch up regularly. A simple message asking how everyone’s week is going will start the conversation and allow everyone to air their grievances.

If you’re noticing that it’s always you who checks in, you may want to find a more reciprocal support network. Some friends or associates might need more support, but it’s important to find people that will return the favour regularly.

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You’ll have people to celebrate with

One of the nicest parts of a support network is that you’ll have a team of cheerleaders just waiting for you to succeed. The best networks are just as willing to raise a glass to your wins as they are to console your losses. You can find enjoyment in encouraging each other and make it a cause for celebration every time someone makes real progress with their business.

There’s something pretty special about celebrating with fellow entrepreneurs as they will understand just how hard you’ve worked. When times are tough you can schedule in calls, video meetings or pub lunches and share even small victories to keep your spirits high.

A problem shared …

Establishing a business support network is crucial if you want to have a happy and healthy life as a business owner. It offers the opportunity to lead the next generation of entrepreneurs through the problems of business ownership and ensures that sectors are growing and thriving for years to come. If you’re looking for a new challenge, check out our UK franchise directory where you’ll find some of the most exciting franchise opportunities in the country.

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