Rule 6: Don’t be an introvert – look wider and understand the power of your network

Third-parties, such as business clubs, chambers of commerce, trade bodies etc, can be invaluable sources of advice and further resources. Like most people, business owners won’t be experts in everything. And although they have excelled in their given field, they may still lack knowledge in many other areas of running and growing a business. Therefore, engaging with third parties can give business owners the kinds of insight – and fresh perspectives – they need to succeed.

With such a strong and healthy population of small and medium-sized businesses in the UK, a large network of local, regional, and national business support has developed alongside it. Do some research and find out what kinds of external resources are available to your business.

At the same time, think about areas in your business you feel you may need guidance on or simply want to chat about. Being a part of a broad conversation is a sign of a healthy business and, in the uncertain aftermath of COVID-19, these kinds of relationships may be more important than ever before.