How STrong Is Your Business Community?

As a native Californian, I grew up learning how to deal with the natural disasters that could strike our beautiful state. Whether it was earthquakes, floods, landslides, wildfires, or even droughts, we were taught to be prepared for anything that could disrupt our daily lives. Having lived through all of these disasters, I still find myself numbed by the images of devastation currently unfolding in Southern California. The mass destruction caused by Mother Nature is sobering, to say the least.

Moments like these give us pause to reflect on recovery. The first thing that comes to mind is the importance of community. Recovering from such calamities is nearly impossible to do alone. Relying on others for support becomes essential, reminding us that a strong community can make the difference between despair and hope.

Business is no different when it comes to facing its own "natural disasters." We've already endured a global pandemic, market collapses, and skyrocketing inflation. Without a strong community to lean on, navigating these challenges becomes significantly harder.

I recently spoke with a colleague who shared that the key to her business’s success over the past 15 years was her investment in building a robust community. She emphasized that without it, her business would have failed several times. Her story underscores a vital lesson: the strength of your community can determine whether your business weathers the storm or succumbs to it.

So, the important question to ask yourself is: what are you doing to build a strong community around you? This community can include colleagues, past clients, referral sources, and even competitors. The most successful professionals are always market-facing, actively working to build and strengthen their business communities. Doing so not only helps their businesses grow but also fortifies them against unforeseen challenges that could threaten their survival.

As the fires in Southern California continue to burn, the full extent of the damage remains uncertain. What is certain, however, is the critical role of community in helping those affected get back on their feet. The support and love of a strong community can provide the foundation for recovery and renewal.

Similarly, in business, we should continuously think about how to be part of a supportive network. Sound business development involves finding ways to help others before asking for anything in return. It’s not only a good strategy but also the right thing to do.

The communities we build strengthen our resilience in challenging times, whether in life or business. Let’s commit to fostering those connections—for ourselves, for others, and for the collective good.