Why You Need to Build a Support System for Your Small Business

If you created a small business, you have an instinct to share your business with friends and family. No business can grow alone, right? However, you may notice that you aren't getting a lot of support from those around you in growing your small business. Most small business owners I know don't have a lot of friends or family buying their crafts.

Why aren't people supportive?
It could be familiarity. They might worry that a small business is unsustainable, or you might suffer negative consequences from trying. Or, it could be that it triggers insecurity in them. Maybe they think they should be changing something in their lives as well but aren't ready to yet? Whatever the reasons, you still need support and help to build your business.

Does that mean I shouldn't have a business?
I would argue that it means you definitely should have a business. Many successful people start out without support and gain support by building their own group of supporters. Not everyone around you will immediately understand your passion or see the vision you have-and that's okay! Eventually they may see or understand your goals.

So, how do I build my group of supporters?
The short answer is to be authentic. Create posts across your social media platforms and business pages that let people see the real you, the artist and crafter, the person who definitely needs coffee to wake up, or who made a crafting mistake, who loves their dogs, or whatever is authentic to your best self.

While sharing posts about your products, build in that time across social media to share about things you are passionate about. People buy from small businesses for a number of reasons, including supporting the local economy, in-person or personal service, and knowing that the business understands their needs. Sharing about yourself allows people the opportunity to connect with you and see that you do understand them and want to make their experience a positive one.

Let's take this a step further:
Part of building a group of friends and supporters is through being a good member of the community. You can do this by sharing content that resonates with you, that inspires you, or adds to your life or creativity somehow.

Choose content from fellow creators to feature, both larger and smaller, in with your own creation posts creates a dynamic where you can help others in a positive way to grow and where you also can grow. Build relationships with other small business owners and you'll find a constant support system of people facing similar challenges. It's a great way to help yourself and help others!

One of my favorite things is to help others by sharing their crafts or their YouTube videos, precisely because I know how hard it is to get started! Getting those first few views can be an amazing motivator to continue creating! Other small business owners are often willing to promote your business as you promote theirs.

Building professional relationships is key, but also building personal relationships matter, too. Taking that time to help your customer find the perfect gift idea, or just responding in a kind and timely manner will make a huge impact on how your business grows.

Would you like more tips on building your group of supporters for your business? Leave a comment below!