Usually, when budding entrepreneurs say "I'm open to
suggestions and constructive criticism," they really mean
"I'm only open to praise and positive feedback. Please
keep your negative comments to yourself!"
Convention teaches us that self-confidence and complete control
are the cornerstones for becoming truly great entrepreneurs. By
that logic, if you want to achieve your dream, you must know the
exact next step to take.
In reality, successful entrepreneurs know that asking for help
is the key to success. Being open to suggestions can be rewarding.
Recommendations and ideas that others share with you can grow your
business faster than you ever imagined.
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Stop trying to have all the answers. Instead, open your mind to
the wisdom that's around you. By allowing others to help, you
tap into an ever-flowing stream of ideas, contacts and resources
that will save you time, money and frustration. Try these steps to
grow your business and become open to ideas:
1. See people around you as
resources. "What a small world!" is what two
people say when they discover a connection they didn't realize
they had. When you meet new people, consider what ideas they could
contribute to your business. Tell them about your business, and let
the small world open up an even larger one to you.
2. Ask for specific help.
Focus your questions on the one or two key items you need help with
so you can get answers and move forward. Apply this focus to your
daily contacts. If press contacts are your main concern, make this
the main topic of conversation. Your sharp focus will provoke an
equally keen response. Don't assume that people know what you
need. Ask!
3. Shift your brain to the open
position. Offering suggestions is not always an easy
thing to do. People often operate from the experience that their
ideas are unwelcome and may be harshly judged, or that their ideas
will not make a huge difference. By listening to them, you give
people the opportunity to share their experiences, ideas and
contacts. Once they discover you're open to receiving ideas,
they will flood you with them.
4. Fill up your "idea junk
drawer." Your goal is to get as many ideas as you
can. Circumstances can change. An idea you think is silly today may
seem brilliant tomorrow. Don't lose them! You're the
business owner, so you can use any suggestion people give you
however you want.
5. Thank the people who help
you. It feels good to help someone achieve their dreams,
and it feels even better to be appreciated. Thank people and keep
them informed of your progress, even if their suggestions were only
part of the solution. Send handwritten notes--this is a wonderful
way to express your gratitude.
6. Become a resource. Be
part of the power of sharing ideas. Offer people suggestions that
can help them achieve success, too. Let them know what's
working for you, and create a community of support.
A young entrepreneur in one of my workshops asked timidly,
"Is it still my business if others help me?" No matter
how many people help, it's still your business. You are the one
who has to implement the ideas given to you, but it's so much
easier when others help you. Be open to ideas, listen and make room
for other people to share in your success!
Speaker and consultant Romanus Wolter, aka "The Kick
Start Guy," is the author of Kick Start Your Dream
Business. Write him at romanus@kickstartguy.com.