This archive report was first published on 6 September 2019.
Starting a business can be a daunting task, especially when you're venturing into uncharted territory. However, with the right support system, entrepreneurs can overcome the challenges and thrive. One of the most significant ways to support your entrepreneur friends is by being a reliable customer.
When 26-year-old Emily Wanja started her perfume refilling business, her friends were her greatest cheerleaders. They promised to buy perfumes from her shop and even offered to market her products. However, most of them wanted freebies or offered to buy at ridiculously low prices, which was not what Emily had in mind.
It's essential to remember that your friends have invested in their business, have bills to pay, and intend to make a profit. By being a loyal customer and paying the right price for their products or services, you can motivate them to continue growing their venture.
Another way to support your entrepreneur friends is by collaborating with them. If your friend is a skilled graphic designer but lacks copywriting skills, you can empower them with your writing or editing skills. This can help them create high-quality content that will attract more customers and grow their business.
Sharing your friend's work on social media can also be a great way to support them. By sharing their work, you can help them reach a wider audience and gain more visibility. This can be especially helpful if your friend is a little-known entrepreneur who needs to build their reputation.
Sometimes, all your friend needs is someone to talk to. If they're having a bad day or struggling to meet their daily targets, lend them an ear. Sometimes, all we need is someone to talk to, maybe for advice or a shoulder to lean on.
Finally, you can use your networks to market your friend's products and services. With the advancement in technology, you can post a WhatsApp status that will be seen by your contacts. You never know who is watching.
By following these 8 ways to support your entrepreneur friends, you can help them navigate the challenges of starting and running a business. Whether it's being a loyal customer, collaborating with them, sharing their work, or lending a listening ear, your support can make all the difference.
