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PROVE THE SCEPTICS WRONG WITH CAREFUL PLANNING

RESOURCES FOR YOUR SMALL CANADIAN BUSINESS

By Leanne Havelock, Winnipeg freelance writer

We’ve all heard that horrible saying, “Most new businesses fail to survive their first two years”. Why are these negative phrases so popular? Sure, it’s statistically true, but it’s pretty discouraging isn’t it? Today’s savvy entrepreneur should reply with, “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail! Talk to me in two years.”

Confidence is key.

The right-hand-men (er, people) of a confident business are always planning and strategy. They are your bodyguards in the dark alleys filled with sceptics, fear and risk. They will guide you down the path of success and help grow your small business.

So where do you begin? Here are some of the best planning and strategizing resources the web has to offer:

Research, Financial Assistance & Consulting

  • eMarketer – a great website and even better daily newsletter with the latest online marketing statistics and trends.

  • BNET's online business library – they’ve literally got every piece of information you;ll need for your small business – from shipping to retail, sales to human resources. Check out their popular proposal template resources.

  • If you’re a 19 – 34 year-old Canadian entrepreneur The CYBF (Canadian Youth Business Foundation) is right up your alley. They’re a not for profit organization devoted to helping young Canadians start, maintain and grow a small business. Check out their resource centre for info on financing, business plans and mentoring programs in your area.

  • The Business Development Bank of Canada also has great programs for financing, venture capital and consulting.

  • What does the world think about tuna, plastic bags and Boston vodka? Believe it or not, this could affect your small business. Stay ahead by reading Trendwatching.com’s consumer trend reports.

  • The Government of Canada’s Business and Entrepreneur website is an abundant playground of information for business planning and marketing.

Advice and Motivation

After a long day of strategizing, it can get pretty lonely in the big bad world of small business. But rest assured, you are never alone. There are hundreds of innovators and forward thinkers out there who are proud to share their knowledge and encourage you to keep doing good work:

  • One of the most respected marketers of now, Seth Godin, a bestselling author and entrepreneur, delivers daily inspiration on his blog and in his books.

  • Want focus and productivity without pulling out your hair? Read Zen Habits to help reduce the clutter.

  • Thinking of a brand strategy? Learn how to “ZAG” (a book by Marty Neumeier) and differentiate your product or service. Or check out the book synopsis in this Slideshare presentation.

  • Perhaps it’s time for you to share some of your own wisdom? Try giving some advice to your social network.

In the end, small business success hinges on believing in yourself and doing what you love with great passion and confidence. But be patient, success is a journey, not a destination.

Leanne Havelock, Winnipeg freelance writer
Winnipeg Writer and small business owner. Lover of all things cheese.
Follow her on twitter: www.twitter.com/4letterw0rd