What Can A Mentor Do For My Home Business?

According to the latest statistics collected by the Small Business Administration, about 66% of new businesses fail within their first 2 years. Online ventures are not exempt from these statistics, perhaps because of the common misconceptions of internet-based businesses. Even a cursory search of the 'net provides ample sites and "programs" that promise us they have "the" way to make cash, free and easy get-rich-quick methods, one-time-only exclusive offers...well, you get the picture. I'd venture to say that virtually anyone interested enough to be reading this article has either considered or fallen prey to at least one such site. I myself have, as well.

Think about any skill you have today in which you excel - whether or not you're making money at it. What was involved in your learning process? Besides perhaps being motivated to get involved by an inherent interest or perceived need, there's a good chance someone you admired or felt was successful coached, taught or...mentored you to proficiency!

Look for someone
*who is willing to establish some sort of relationship with you,
*who is willing to "shoot straight" with you and tell you the truth,
*who is already familiar with either your niche or product or service (this does not include your upline, who may or may not know successful marketing techniques or strategies),
*who shares the same or similar business ethics or morals as you (this is more important than you might realize)
*who is willing to make suggestions but is not willing to do the work for you. A mentor has "been there and done that" and is able and willing to pass on the lessons learned so YOU don't have to make the same mistakes!

...and what's the value in having one?

In addition to the above-referenced perspective he provides, a good coach also brings to the table a degree of accountability that is helpful as you build your business and vital when you're "stalled". He can give you an objective, 3rd party analysis of your plans and steer you back in the right direction. He is able to see in you what you may not see at times, and help that potential grow!

Where do I start? Not coming from a sales background I've learned some very practical, nuts and bolts things in that area, and some wonderfully creative ways to build a business on the internet. Because we share a similar world-view and moral standard, I've learned how not to operate my business and what to steer clear from. He has not only taught me that I need a plan and a program to be successful, but that I need to develop persistence. And lastly, in addition to helping me find ~ and use ~ the right tools, he has encouraged me to build on my personal talents to create my own unique niche in the marketplace.

My first and biggest piece of advice is to take your time and don't jump into any commitment. Look for someone who will spend an initial amount of time with you without charge to see if the "chemistry" is right. There's no value to be had in consulting with someone whose voice or mannerisms or business ethics don't agree with you! So do your homework online and read through some of the available resources ~ websites, blogs, magazine and newspaper articles in archives ~ that can give you good advice on pre-planning and launching your own business. And then, if you're still struggling, look into the concept of attraction marketing and Renegade University, where you can learn step-by-step how to build a business unique to you, or grow the business you already have, all on a shoestring budget. Join the folks who are already on the train!

Pat Fenner has gone through Renegade University training and has a passion to help others achieve the ability to work from home as well. Contact her to set up a FREE ½ hour consultation to see if attraction marketing and Renegade University can help you take your business to the next level ~ and get a built-in mentor! Remember, with a plan, a program and persistence, failure doesn't have to be an option!