How many of us in life do things on our own? I mean make all our decisions on our own such as "definately the pink tie" or "I'll take the family to Iran for our holidays". How many of us go out in the morning and decide to sell the house without consulting our partner or arrange a family party without consulting 63 people? We don't, we get a 2nd opinion on everything we do from what we are having for dinner (oh I don't know, what do you think? What are you having?) to what car to buy (ask Terry down the pub) to what colour to paint the living room (does maroon go with my courderoy slacks?).
We seem to ask advice on the smallest of decisions yet why do we jump into things in business on our own? So many business owners make life changing decisions without seeking an experienced second opinion. Many of us own our own business yet why does that qualify us to run it efficiently. Often we are operating in a new way and a new sector and that is not to say that we cannot be successful but wouldn't it be peace of mind to get a second opinion? Even if they thought differently, your defensive argument may serve to reinforce your committment to what you are already doing.
What every business person needs is a Mentor/Consultant or Coach. Tiger Woods cut his support team when he got to the top and stopped winning. Before recent indiscretions (a whole other blog!) he had a team in double figures and was winning everything. Richard Branson uses a business coach, Alan Sugar has his trusted advisors and wouldn't suffer Yes Men.
Whatever industry, whatever your business you will only improve if you seek the support of an experienced Coach or Consultant. There could be funding available and even without, your return on investment will far outweigh the initial costs. Use them for a day, use them monthly or for projects, use them for a year but please use them or employ your equivalent and listen to them. Everybody needs a second opinion......except my wife!
( 5 Votes )
