Build a Small Business Network to Help Your Business Succeed

As a small business owner you can often feel alone, even when surrounded by many people.How is this possible? The answer is that many small business owners keep their business challenges to themselves. They don’t want employees, or customers, or suppliers, or family and friends for that matter, to know that they have business issues that might be difficult to manage.If this describes your business environment, consider building a business network to help you manage your challenges and grow your business.What is a small business network? In this instance it is a network of either similar or dissimilar small businesses that work together to help each other solve their business issues and also to help each other manage and grow their businesses.Let’s examine an example of a small business network for similar businesses. A group of between eight and twelve business owners in the same industry but in non-competing locations set up a peer business network. They get together (either face-to-face or online) at a regularly scheduled day and time (maybe monthly or quarterly) to discuss their small business strategy and issues and they each ask for, and get, feedback from the rest of the group — all experienced business owners of similar type businesses.Some of the discussion might center on human resource issues such as training, hiring, firing, turn-over rates, and comparative wages or salaries. Other discussions might be on common customer centric issues such as turn-around times, over promising and under delivering, quality, service, handling difficult customers. Some sessions might focus on business planning, marketing planning, sales planning or results from plans.To form this type of group, business owners could meet through national or international industry trade associations. To make this type of network work, the participants must sign confidentiality agreements and non-compete agreements — even though today the businesses are non-competing, there is no guarantee that tomorrow they won’t be competing. It is important that legal advice is obtained at the start of setting up this type of network — your group will need to know what is allowed or not allowed by government competition acts.The advantage of this type of network is that all participants already know and understand the industry and can bring that knowledge and expertise to the discussions.Now, let’s examine an example of a small business network for dissimilar businesses.This type of network would work best in a group of not less than eight and not many more than twelve business owners (too small and the input is weakened; too large and it’s hard to have a voice or hear what’s going on). This group would get together on a regular basis (likely monthly) and review each business’ progress, operations, challenges, or the designated topic of the month. Since this is a network of non-competing, dissimilar businesses, the group could be local and meetings could be face-to-face.An advantage for local meetings is that the group would be operating in the same economic climate and would have a thorough understanding of what that means to local businesses. It would be relatively easy to form a local group by meeting businesses through local small business associations.Topics could be selected in advance by month, by quarter, by year and each business owner would attend a network meeting prepared to discuss issues surrounding that topic. For example, one month’s topic could be about reducing the cost of financing and sharing tips and tactics. Another month’s topic could be about the use of the best and most successful recruiting methods for that local area. Another month’s topic could be on creating a business plan and the necessary tools to do so.In this type of network it is also important to have confidentiality agreements and non-compete agreements at the start of the network meetings. You will want to have the assurance that if someone leaves the group that they won’t share confidential information with others.The advantage of this type of network is that you can more easily set this group up in your local market so that face-to-face meetings would not be difficult and that you might actually get more out-of-the-box thinking from business owners outside of the industry who are not constrained by past practices.For both types of networks, use an outside facilitator to ensure that the group stays on track and that each member gets out of the network what it needs (its reason for joining). The concept of a business network is to provide small business owners with a small business advisory group to test solutions, find answers, change old ways of doing things, and more. In large businesses, that type of network support typically comes from other departments or management. In small businesses, a strong small business network is part of an overall business community that becomes part of the infrastructure for your business’ success.

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Parents Need Knowledge of Education Techniques

Once a couple decides to have children, it becomes their responsibility to raise the child in the best possible way. Furthermore, the desire to do so is also a part of having and raising a child. The pressures of having and raising a child are even more if one analyzes the views and opinions of one’s society. Hence, parenting is a topic that overwhelms a lot of people as they find it complicated and full of responsibilities. Sometimes, this fear gets so heightened that it gives birth to irrational views. Such perception is nothing but lack of awareness and knowledge.Parenting and education are not very different from each other. Over the ages, teachers have played the role of remote parents. On the other hand, most psychology experts consider parents to be the best teachers for a child. Psychology also plays a major role in the way a child should be brought up and educated by his or her parents and parent figures. This is the reason why parents need to understand the techniques of educating their children and psychological aspects of the same. The most efficient way to learn this is to attend parenting counseling classes. These classes help to understand the psychological and educational impact of parental action. Another way would be to refer to education, psychological and parenting textbooks.The Following Are Some Facts About Parenting That All Parents Need To Know:1. Role Model:Children learn by aping their elders. Therefore, it is vital that they are given good examples to follow. This is one aspect that is found in every education book that deals with teaching infants.2. Strong But Firm:The first thing that most parents will come across is their child’s tantrums. This needs to be nipped in the bud if the child is to grow into a mature and balanced adult. The ideal way, as per psychologists, is to distract the child and if he or she persists to ignore his or her tantrums. If done properly, the tantrums will gradually decrease in frequency and finally stop.3. Specifics:It is important to know when to treat a child the value of responsibility and when to provide emotional succor. If a child is given too much independence and freedom of choice at the toddler stage then it is possible that he or she could believe that he or she can do anything. Similarly, if he or she is given too much attention then he or she will become dependent. Developing a balance between the two is very important.4. Honesty:Being honest with your child is something that will help him or her to grow into a mature adult. Most parents have the tendency to hide negative aspects of life from their children. Telling about the facts of life is a judgment call for every single parent. But, it still needs to be made at some stage and not put off. It is recommended that such education comes from the parents instead of the child’s peers.

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The Importance of “Networking” in Your Network Marketing Business

A complete understanding of the importance of “networking,” is a common trait amongst those who succeed in their network marketing business. Although there are similarities between networking and marketing, it is necessary to realize that the two concepts are not identical. Both networking and marketing share a heavy reliance on interpersonal relations, thus forcing people to confront and overcome the fears associated with talking to others. The potential of rejection is present in both; however, it is countered by a substantial opportunity for personal gain. For many people, the words “networking” and “marketing” are dirty words.It is generally a flawed understanding of the principles of networking that cause some to be resistant to the concept. This resistance is likely to be found in people who believe that network marketing is beneath their social status. Many people view networking as a means of connecting, simply in the pursuit of personal gain. Those who espouse this viewpoint are likely to view networking as being shady or even unprofessional. This line of thinking is rooted in the assumption that advancement comes only at the expense of other people. People holding to this viewpoint regard success in life as a zero-sum proposition. Adherence to this viewpoints also shapes a person’s thinking in regards to the field of network marketing. The idea of receiving personal gain from other people’s efforts is viewed in a negative light, and considered inequitable. Those who are success in their MLM business are quick to point out that their businesses have not been built at the expense of others. In fact, the business of network marketing actually rewards people when they help others achieve success. From this vantage point, the network marketing business model may actually be one of the fairest most non-discriminating business models in use today.The black cloud sometimes associated with network marketing is best explained by considering the type of network marketer, who creates negative sentiment towards the business model as a whole. Intermingled with legitimate MLM business owners are those who could best be described as opportunistic ‘hunters.’ These marketers move in for quick profit, then disappear just as quickly. These individuals show little regard for the well being and best interest of those they prey upon. The life of this type of marketer is short lived, because the reputation of their actions ultimately catches up to them. As others discover the hunter’s true motivations, people withdraw their willingness to interact with this type of marketer.On the other hand, a highly successful network marketer operates much like a farmer, investing great amounts of time to the establishment and nurturing of interpersonal relationships. Common traits found in successful network marketer include: Regular investment in their network, motivation, equipping and empowering of their business team. They leverage the synergy of their network, without taking advantage of the team members within the network! A fact that is both recognized and regarded by those within their team. True network marketing professionals, strive to keep the interests of others in their rightful position. This attention to personal care, makes working with a true MLM professional highly satisfying.Any business model is in some way highly dependent upon networking. Although network marketing has many differences in comparison to traditional business models, the importance of networking is just as critical, if not more so. A network marketer has not learned the art of networking will quickly find themselves out of business. At its very foundation, network marketing is first and foremost a people centered business, thus demanding by the ability to effectively work with people. It becomes obvious why successful network marketers are masters in the art of networking. The development of this ability has far reaching implications. Often times, a business owner can apply their networking and people skills to a traditional business model, leading to much greater productivity and business success.It would be a mistake to underestimate the importance of good networking skills, even if you are utilizing a business model other than network marketing. For those truly want to develop this skill, some of the best mentoring and training will come from those who have built strong MLM business organizations. Take the time to connect with a few people who fit that description, and tap into their wisdom in regards to this aspect of their life. The mentoring you receive will benefit you personally, and help you establish your own networking success story!

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A Guide to Help You Pick the Best Air Purifier for Your Loved Ones

Holidays are around the corner. This is the time of year when people start purchasing gifts for their loved ones. If you are going to purchase an air purifier for someone you love, we have some helpful tips for you. If you want to purchase the best unit, you may be able to use this guide to your advantage. Read on to find out more.

1: Set Your Budget

Just like anything you purchase, make sure you have set your budget first. The price of the unit will vary based on a lot of factors, such as the capacity, filter type, features, and brand of the unit. If you don’t have a flexible budget, we suggest that you go for a product that is available to purchase for less than $300.

2: Consider the Needs of the Recipient

Your next move is to consider the needs of your recipient. If you are going to purchase this unit for everyday use, we suggest that you go for a unit that comes with a HEPA filter. On the other hand, if your loved one has a specific need, we suggest that you consider a specialized unit.

For example, if they are more prone to respiratory issues, such as allergies and infections, we suggest that you get a UV purifier for them. The devices are designed to neutralize viruses and bacteria.

3: Think About the Available Space

Another primary factor is to consider the available space in the office or house of the recipient. For example, if they need a general-purpose unit for a small apartment, you may want to consider a filterless unit.

On the other hand, if they have plenty of free space, you may consider a bigger unit that features a higher airflow rating. These units are powerful enough to cover a large face.

4: Consider Extra Features

Lastly, we suggest that you consider additional features that they will just love. For example, some units come with an indicator that turns on when the filter needs to be replaced. This will allow the user to change the filter so that the device continues to work properly.

So, you may want to consider these features before you place your order. These features may not be important to you, but your friend may just be over the moon.

Long story short, we suggest that you consider these four tips if you are going to purchase a gift for your loved one on these holidays. Since the air is full of pollution during winter days, nothing can make a better gift than an air purifier. Therefore, you should consider these tips before looking for an online or physical store to make your purchase decision.

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The Significance of Pure Air Inside Your Home

Have you ever climbed up mountains? If so, what do you do when you reach the top? Most people open their arms, close their eyes, and take a deep breath. That is the special thing about clean and fresh air. You feel like taking a pause and inhaling fresh air. Over the past year, we have faced several waves of coronavirus. These days, we have been warned about another wave of this virus. Therefore, the importance of clean air has been increasing day by day. In this article, we are going to find out why air quality is important when it comes to our indoor environment.

The impact of pollution on your indoor air

No matter where you go, you will have to face the consequences of poor quality. Even if you are alone in your home, you will still be prone to polluted air. Every year, more than 1 million people lose their life because of air pollution.

According to some reports, India is among the top 10 countries in the world with the worst air quality. The effect of polluted air is more evident as people spend over 90% of their time inside their homes. Another research study found that residents are at a greater risk of covid-19.

As a matter of fact, indoor air pollution has become an international concern. We can say that pollution levels inside and in closed spaces are up to five times higher. Since most pollutants are not visible to the naked eye, you may not be able to aware of the dangers of dirty air.

Indoor air pollutants may be generated by common household items, such as cleaning agents, cooking fuel, furniture polish, pet dander, and paint. Apart from this, domestic appliances such as refrigerators and heaters may also be the common source.

Since homes are not airtight, air pollutants can easily get in. For example, smog, smoke, mold spores, and dust can get into your house through your windows or doors. Air conditioners can be used to cool down your rooms. But the downside is that they can also boost the movement of pollutants across your house.

What can you do to purify your indoor air?

Basically, air purifiers are simple devices that receive dirty air and put it out after passing it through powerful filters. Nowadays, you can choose from hundreds of air purification units available in the market. They are based on a wide range of technologies. They are available in different sizes to cover rooms of different sizes.

Nowadays, most types of air purifiers depend on HEPA technology. Initially, this technology was introduced in the 40s in order to capture pollutants from the air. Although these filters have been used for the filtration of particulate matter, they may not be that effective when it comes to eliminating volatile organic compounds.

Therefore, if you are worried about your health, we suggest that you invest in a type of device that comes with a HEPA filter. With these units, filtering your indoor air will be a piece of cake. Therefore, you can count on these devices to and ensure clean air inside your house.

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