When I first started out self-employed in business, I had no idea how much I relied on others to support, mentor and nurture my ideas and concepts into a reality. The support networks were everywhere, coffee groups, friends and family but It wasn’t until a few weeks ago, I added my social media connections and Facebook groups which I am involved in to the support circle.
Strange, isn’t it? Small home businesses can start to become quite insular in our approach to making an impact on the wider community or target audience and it’s not until you start collaborating with other online forums / groups that you realise your reach is a lot wider!
A few months ago, I reduced my business and client base significantly to focus on some important family time due to two very important people in my life passing away. This time gave me a chance to reflect on what I am doing, what I am offering others and what can I give back to the online community.
I made the decision to continue to do what I love and share the love with others as this is what truly makes me happy (and wished there was more of when I started out). During one of my research afternoons (a.k.a. scrolling through Facebook!) I came across a group called NZ Woman’s Entrepreneur Network (now called She Owns It) and was immediately struck how collaborative and supportive everyone was in the group. I sent a request to join and from this date forward I have never looked back!
I signed up as a paid member and commenced my 2017 goal of giving back… If a question was asked and I had something useful to share, I shared it! If I had something to offer, I offered it. Simple but VERY EFFECTIVE. I wasn’t expecting anything in return, just loved the feeling of helping others and providing some well received support or reassurance to other woman entrepreneur’s.
So this week, I gave back to them more… $500 dollars’ worth of product and services more! The WE Network had a Celebration Launch for at a wonderful venue in Ponsonby. I gave away a PA for the day, a “home office survival basket” and three months free Xero subscription!
In addition, I had the chance to speak and share my story in business and why I chose 2017 as the year for giving back. The referrals and contacts I made with people that night were incredible.
My tip? Seek your perfect online space to be supportive and share your stories with others because if you keep giving and love it, it will eventually come back to you. If you would like to know more about WE Network, then check them out here… Don’t forget to say hi if you see me online!
Until next time, take care… and have fun!
