The Fastest Way to Get Business Experience November 29, 2009

Let’s face it, we all want immediate results. We look for shortcuts and simplicity. I remember when I first went into business years ago, I was so excited that I didn’t have an employer to answer to that I didn’t realize all the pitfalls that were just ahead. In fact, one of my first customers turned out to be my worst customer. His expectations were unrealistic and the demands he made created doubt in my mind if going into business was the right move. However, it really wasn’t his fault that he misunderstood what we agreed to, I didn’t have an agreement that clearly stated what he was getting.

After that experience, I realized how much I really didn’t know about business. When I look back now, I’m really grateful that I had that happen in my first month in business, although at the time I wasn’t so pleased. I decided then that I would look for people who were already successful in business and ask for their opinion. If I could learn from others that had been there and done that, then I could avoid costly mistakes.

I figured out that if I volunteered my time to assist in projects with other powerful business owners, that I could learn from them. I could get to know them better and some of them became my personal mentors in business. It’s like becoming an intern or apprentice but on a per project basis.

Look at who’s in your community that could be a role model for you.  Attend events like CEO Space that have Fortune 500 mentors and celebrity instructors.  Continuously search for business coaches and consultants to get advice.