The old saying “it's lonely at the top” rings true as a business owner. Especially when you are in the first few years of the business (even if you don’t feel that you're “at the top” just yet). But what do you do as a business owner “at the top” when you’re facing a new challenge or are in need of advice? Sometimes it feels as though there is nowhere to turn...

As an employee you can easily ask a peer how to overcome this issue. When in a relationship you can lean on a partner and speak about your troubles. So doesn't it make sense that business owners do the same? It's actually more important to have a support system as a business owner. Chances are you're alone in your venture, asking an employee for advice usually isn't the best idea and chances are they wont have the answers, heck the challenge may even even be about them. 

Even if you have a partner in the business, there is a good chance neither of you have experienced the current hurdle, or maybe you just want an outsider's opinion. 

How do you communicate with others in your position?

There are many business owner groups. I've been a part of a few of them over the years. Networking groups, but most contain a wide variety of members that may not be business owners. 

Business owner groups usually are a network of business owners in a certain demographic made up of hundreds of professionals that usually consist of smaller chapters with between 5-8 business owners in them. Typically, in these smaller chapters you won't see a competing business. This allows a business owner the ability to really open up and allow the others in the chapter to see inside their businesses. As issues arise (as they commonly do in business) you can openly and honestly let others into your business and help give and receive advice or suggestions on those issues or concerns. 

Don't forget you're not alone, chances are many others have seen and experienced exactly the challenge you are faced with. Reach out to a local business owner group or feel free to direct message (social channels linked below) me with a challenge you may be having, If it's something I've experienced or have a suggestion id be happy to give my advice. 

Share how you communicate with those 'at the top' on - TwitterFacebookLinkedIn, or Instagram. Use #communication

About the Author, James Webster

James Webster, founder and Executive Chairman of ROK Financial has almost two decades of experience within the financial services industry. His passion for helping small business owners and his innovative way of thinking, has allowed him to run multiple successful businesses including National Business Capital & Services. Under the National name, the team was able to help secure over $1 Billion in financing for small businesses nationwide.