Everyone who runs their own business worries about how to invest in that business. But in my experience, not enough of them remember to regularly invest in themselves as well. The business world is constantly changing, and it’s tough to keep pace if you don’t put in the work. Fortunately, modern technology makes it possible to consistently invest in yourself at all stages of your business. Whether you’re after “soft” skills like management skills or “hard” ones like financing, I’ve written out a list of the best digital resources to give you a leg up on the competition, in no particular order.
Online training
From MIT lectures on YouTube to Harvard classes on popular education websites, it’s possible to get all of the tools you need to succeed without leaving your computer. Online classes allow you to pick up relevant training to handle specific business issues, and TED talks or similar videos can be great digital resources for one-off learning as well. Best of all, you’ll find that online training can be relevant at all phases of your business: classes for budding entrepreneurs might talk about startup funding or market assessments, while veterans might find classes to stay on top of advancements in techniques and technology in their field.
Online business groups
Although most of us think of “networking” as something that happens in person, you’ll miss out on fantastic opportunities if you forget to check for relevant networks online. Depending on the platform, some groups will be incredibly formal, with members-only access to resources, forums, and more. Others will be less so—including more casual groups housed on popular social media sites like LinkedIn. These online communities can be a great way to get hold of highly relevant educational resources, as well as peer support, monthly meetings, curated content, and more.
Online mentorships and masterminds
If you’re serious about staying a few paces ahead of the competition, finding the right guidance can be crucial—and it’s easier than ever to do it online. If you prefer to find one on one support, an online mentorship may be right for you. The right mentor can offer personalized feedback when you need it most, staying relevant to your business and industry. Best of all, you can tailor your experience by finding a mentor with expertise in areas you struggle in most. On the other hand, if you prefer a group experience, a mastermind can be a great digital resource. Masterminds are groups of like-minded entrepreneurs who participate in regular meetings, each member having the goal of improving their own businesses. This type of online community offers opportunities for brainstorming, hearing new perspectives, and cultivating strong relationships with supportive peers who will hold you accountable to your goals.
Being a business owner means constantly striving for better and more—but these digital resources make the job easier. Don’t be surprised at just how much you can learn with these digital resources, because the next great thing you do for your business might be completed online.