Grow Your Business Through Mentoring

Many small businesses think they are unable to help out in our communities. Their perception is that they don't have the time to donate – or the ability to stroke a big check – right? But what if there was a way to make a difference – while growing your business?

My husband and I have worked with a wide variety of people, from teens in low-income communities, to adults exiting prison and homeless shelters, and we know from experience there are lots of people who want the opportunity to learn how to run a business. At the very least, they want to learn about how to produce their own income. That's where you come in.

Have you ever wanted to have someone do some telemarketing for you? Perhaps someone who could work a networking or Meetup group for you? Maybe even work an email list for you? How about doing follow-ups? Perhaps you could become an entrepreneurial mentor for someone working to get their life back together.

Yes, you have to spend the time to teach a skill, and you likely will need to assess where their natural skills and talents lie, but this activity can bring you more business while teaching someone the very skills they need to learn how to become self-sustaining. You might call it the ultimate win-win. Let's not forget about compensation. Depending on the person's situation, you may be able to work with them on a commission basis, or an up-front stipend plus commissions. Some people will have a stable living situation and some will not. Determining individual needs should be part of the up-front discussion process to ensure a productive situation for all involved.

I encourage you to think about this strategy as part of your planning for 2021. Is it time for you to make a greater social impact, while growing your business at the same time?

Sheyenne Kreamer
Co-Founder
WeCare Partnerships Network, LLC