Starting a Business

Comment

Comment by Douglas Dolan on November 12, 2009 at 3:53pm

Victoria:

Thank you for sharing your insights.

I believe that many stay away from outsourcing and joint ventures based upon:

previous bad experiences
fear of opening up your business to an unknown outsider
fear of losing control

However, how much time do you want to spend wallowing in your weaknesses instead of investing your time wisely maximizing the outcomes from your strengths?

When I worked as a VP of Sales & Marketing for a computer memory company, one of the best lessons that I learned about managing others is to work around weaknesses and create as many opportunities for your team to make the most of their strengths.

Most people's weaknesses stay their weaknesses. They typically don't show much improvement even with extensive training. Managing you in your business is very much the same. You will grow quicker if you allow those with talents to cover your areas of weakness.

I did an interview a couple of months back with Judy Shcramm, founder of ProResource - a company that specializes in teaching companies how to identify areas of their businesses that are excellent for outsourcing and how to make the most out of their outsourcing programs. You can click on the link to read the interview.

I am interested to hear from others in the group about their experiences with outsourcing and if they haven't, why not.

Doug
The Solopreneur's Guide - Consultant/ Copywriter
LCO Business Network - Member / Moderator

Comment by Victoria Ipri on November 12, 2009 at 2:10pm

Hi Everyone,

I am a firm believer in joint ventures and outsourcing! Unfortunately, so many others are not...perhaps because they fear not doing it "right" or ending up with an unsatisfactory outcome. (I say, "Fear, schmear! Just get in there!")

For more than two years, I’ve worked with a number of web designers/programmers with various talents (i.e., one might be more skilled at setting up an online store; another may be more skilled in creating information websites) and eventually settled on just one design company who can provide everything my clients need.

Additionally, I work closely with a group of skilled writers. One is great with grant writing, business plans and academic assignments. Another is very good with anything blog-related. One writes effective newspaper articles. Another writes sharp Internet articles. And so forth. I choose my alliances carefully to ensure a well-rounded group of professional providers and I’m always on the lookout for someone who can add a skill we currently don’t have.

What these relationships do for me is no doubt obvious. However, what these relationships bring to my clients is priceless. I can offer full-spectrum solutions for any client with a new or existing online business…something I would not be able to do relying on my own strengths alone. If you’re just starting out and need a website, we can do it. If you’ve got the basics in place but want to start writing ebooks, free reports, etc. for better online recognition, we can do that too. If you’re a grizzled online business owner who thinks he knows it all, we’re always on top of the most current trends, and can help you figure out your next step.

Recently, I formed a partnership with a social media specialist who is a whiz at online PR. (Chris at www.GoMediaInternational.com) This is a new area for me, but definitely necessary for success. How can you survive online today without involvement in social media?

This strategy is the basis for my current website, www.OneStopSEOShop.com. Today however, as the global business landscape continues to change, I am changing too, and currently branding myself using my own name (www.VictoriaIpri.com) to provide an umbrella of the most popular copywriting and Internet marketing services, as well as expanding into Writer Coaching (my personal passion).

The reason I am explaining all of this is to express how valuable joint ventures and outsourcing can be if you plan your work and work your plan.

Anyone who would like guidance in these areas can contact me for assistance. I’m always happy to help.

Comment by Eddie Galdamez on November 12, 2009 at 12:16pm

Hello Victoria;
I started a mortgage company in 2003 that we had to close in 2007.
Because of the way real estate was, it was easy to get done.

in 2008 We started an international consulting company that help investors invest in real estate in Japan, Central America, & Australia.

I agree with Douglas that a join venture is a good idea, our consulting company is doing ok, but with 4 individuals working together it makes thing easier.

I don't think i can get it done by my self

Comment by Douglas Dolan on November 12, 2009 at 11:29am

Victoria:

Thanks for joining the group.

Although you said except for Maria and me, I do have a question that I ask all solo entrepreneurs. Do you or have you used outsourcing and joint ventures as a way to grow your business?

I know the "been in the trenches" struggle that you mention as a solo entrepreneur. I am a strong believer in joint ventures and outsourcing aspects of your business that are not your forte.

I am interested to hear your experience. Plus, I am interested in hearing questions from the rest of the group, too.

Thanks,

Doug
The Solopreneur's Guide - Consultant/ Copywriter
LCO Business Network - Member / Moderator

Comment by Victoria Ipri on November 12, 2009 at 9:54am

Good morning, Everyone!
I just joined this group, so please forgive me if I ask questions you've already discussed. I see there are 7 members here. Are each of you owners of new businesses? (Except Doug and Maria). What businesses have you started? What are your biggest challenges getting started?

In September 2006, I started my own business as a freelance copywriter. I was soon shocked to learn how much work it can be to run a business, even when I am the only employee! So I have "been in the trenches", as they say, and hope that, if you have questions about running your business, you'll feel free to ask me. Perhaps my experience can be useful to you