Tap into peer power
By Linda Rink
Every time I attend the AIIP annual conference, I’m struck by the power of peers. The conference means connecting with like-minded small business owners and receiving support (not competition) from colleagues who generously share tips on marketing, running their business, and of course, conducting research or other areas of specialty.
The ability to share and communicate with people who “get” you is invaluable.
Do you have a resource pool of talent to call on for outsourcing?
An important added benefit of this peer network is that it is a potential resource for small business owners like me. If I need specialized expertise, experience in a certain industry area, or just an extra pair of hands to tackle a large project, I know where to go.
Having the right resources when you need them, already vetted, prevents last-minute scrambles and precious time lost – and makes you more valuable to your clients.
While payroll, invoicing and other automated or repetitive tasks are often outsourced, you should consider outsourcing custom, specialized assignments as well.
There are several benefits to outsourcing talent – whether you are a solo operator or part of a large organization:
- Freed-up staff time for core business and /or more urgent tasks
- Reduced costs by not having to hire more staff
- Specialized expertise not available in-house
- Objective third-party evaluation and recommendations
- Extra resources when you need them
- Ability to compete with larger companies
- Reduced “ramp up” time for new initiatives
- Reduced risk
- Fresh perspectives from outside your organization
Of course, outsourcing carries its own set of risks, particularly when it comes to management and quality control. That’s why having a pool of already-vetted resources is important.
And one of the best places to start is your own network of peers.
Linda is the President of RINK Consulting. RINK Consulting provides marketing and business research, and strategic marketing consulting services. Linda has over 25 years’ experience in marketing and product management, with P&L responsibility for major brands at Quaker Oats, Seagram & Sons, and Hunt Corporation. Clients include professional services firms, manufacturers, advertising & public relations agencies, health care, and non-profits.
