Ready for Takeoff: Intro to Your Life as an Independent
Tonight, I am going to stop by New Work City to attend a talk, “Ready for Takeoff: Intro to Your Life as an Independent”. As an entrepreneur who’s always paved my own way, I’m keen to hear some of the insights from the panelists.
My own experiences have taught me a number of lessons in this arena. It will take a long time to organize those ideas, perhaps some day. In the meantime, some of the highlights:
Always Be Networking
Last week, I attended a workshop with some stellar networkers. The message was clear, but I'll restate it in my own manner: it's never too late to start networking.The relationships you have in the world are very much like a garden.  While seeds are easy to plant, seeing those mature into something beautiful and nourishing takes care and attention.
Make Solutions, Not Problems
We all have a desire to be needed, personally and professionally. As an independent, you have to see out ways to improve the circumstance for others. Unfortunately, sometimes we may imply there are issues simply to open a door for ourselves. It's best to listen carefully to understand what the problems your potential customer is facing.Specialize Or Die
It's wise not to try and boil the ocean. Figure out one specific area you want to focus on (that may be a subset of your skills, a geographic location, or a niche audience), and go at it full force.By thinking smaller you’ll get further faster or at least learn that you are going in the wrong direction.
Be Confident, Not Cocky
We'd like to all believe we're experts at the game. Usually, though, it takes a lifetime of experience and a bit of reflection to really know what your real expertise is.Don’t confuse skills with expertise. All sorts of people have similar skills, but knowing how to ply them for others and the guide the forces at work is what sets the experts apart from the amateurs.I could do this all day, but thought I would get you thinking. If you’re not sure just what you are an expert at, ask your network.