VOLUNTEER BUSINESS ADVISORY BOARD

ALL micro and small businesses and social enterprises must establish a BUSINESS ADVISORY BOARD.
Benefits to business owner-free advice, sales leads/referrals, credibility (names on web site/brochure)
Benefits to advisor-networking with other advisors to get leads/referrals, free advertising on company site, letter from company to boss saying positive involvement, add to resume-community involvement, learn something, social involvement
Process:
1. Identify needs for business-e.g. marketing, sales, financial, technology, knowledge re product/service
2. Recruit and have them sign a confidentiality/non-compete document
3. Have them agree to a once a month meeting for 1/2 hours-in-person or on-line or skype; plus 2 e-mails and 2 phone calls
4. Conduct monthly meeting with 1-2 items such as new product/service, marketing plan, problem, opportunity
NO one person has the knowledge and skills to manage ALL aspects of a business. A business advisory board (preferably volunteer)can provide professional advice and support to grow the business.
Based on your needs, more than one board should be established.