[rbriggs]

I have a hobby....it's called "My Business". I read alot of mangement and business type books and get a nice education from them. However, I am wondering how many of you have a business mentor that you meet with regularly. I am in search of a few mentors that I can run things by, and get advice from, and learn from. It's not as easy as it sounds to find someone willing to do this.

[VoodooChile]

Unless you are fortunate enough to stumble upon a generous knowledgable friend, I believe such mentors are called "consultants" and charge for their services.

We've never hired one, and muddle through swapping tips with other contractors through chance encounters and great sites like GTX.

[GLAN]

Yeah........what Voodoo said...



Although.

There are 2 younger LCO's that often refer to me as their mentor. But I am keeping many of my secrets to myself...

[Dragonfly]

The right consultant/ mentor is worth their weight in gold. However you will have to interview them almost as though an employee. One that you would trust running your company, because you will tell them things about your company that you would tell no one else. Would you let just anyone look at your books? And each consultant will have an area that they specialize in, so think hard about what it is you are really looking to improve on. My experience was very beneficial for me and my company.

[sleepy]

a little late but check your local sba (small biz administration). My mentors are free and they will net meeting with you too.
im looking into hiring and its quite overwhelming getting over thatt hump!

[Stuck in NH]

www.SCORE.org

This is a free mentor service that can be helpful. It is made up of retired business people that want to help people succeed. I found the 2 gentlemen that counseled me to be very helpful, but long winded. They had a very extensive network of friends that were able to answer many questions.

Please note I have used the services of SCORE in the past & I was Satisfied with their services. Your results will vary. I do not know what their long term agenda is, or if they will come looking for me in the night someday