Collaborate and Innovate

They say that the “Great Recession” officially ended in the second quarter of 2009, and for the many CEOs who raked in an average of $10 million in 2010, this would seem to be the case.  

But it is decidedly not over for the many Americans who struggle to find work. Currently 9.1% of the workforce is unemployed, according to the Bureau of US Labor Statistics, and by some accounts there are 4.5 unemployed persons for every job opening.

The recession has forced many Americans to reassess their values and take stock of their lives, resulting in a new formula for livelihood: sharing resources, skills and social energy far outweigh the negatives involved in working a 50+ hour workweek.  Their response?  Create your own job. Luckily, there’s a lot of support available for those venturing into self-employment.

“So many people would love to strike out on their own, but don’t know how to do it,” says Sarah Hawkins of True North Business Management, a JP-based consulting company that launched in September 2011 and whose current JP clients include Monroe Heyman of McCormack &  Scanlon Real Estate, and Dale Swan of Reiki Resources of Boston. “One thing that I’ve noticed is that there is a fantastic network of people with similar dreams who are doing really, really well and are willing to reach out a hand to those just getting started.  The entrepreneurial scene is actually very supportive.” 

Her number one suggestion?  Collaborate early and often.  “These partnerships not only get your name out there, but you get to practice your craft and hopefully garner some recommendations and testimonials in the process. Use facebook and twitter to see what folks are up to. Read some blogs. If what someone is doing with their business resonates, contact them.  Who knows? You may get yourself a mentor, if not a client.”

Sarah Hawkins is a business support specialist who consults with entrepreneurs and small business owners on how to develop and implement marketing, administration, customer service, and business development strategies. She offers first-time clients free get-to-know-you consultations, and this week, she’s promoting her brand-new “Two-Week Tune-Up” Package with a contest.  One lucky winner will get their very own Tune-Up! Enter to win one for your business by visiting her website and follow the rules of the game.

For more information, call 857-203-0514, visit http://www.truenorthbusinessmanagement.com or email truenorthbusinessmanagement@gmail.com.