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When you first start running a small business, it can feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. You’re going to find yourself carrying out the bulk of the work to get things up and running and it can feel like you’re non stop. But at the end of the day, you can’t run your business completely single-handedly. If you did, this would mean creating absolutely everything yourself – from materials to products to marketing to delivery – from scratch. It would be impossible. At some point, you’re going to have to collaborate with others to make things work. Here are just a few contacts that you’ll find you need at some point down the line.

 

Suppliers

 

First things first, you’re going to need suppliers. These companies will supply you with anything that your business needs. It could be a company that supplies the raw materials for your products. It could be a company like https://atielectrical.com/ that provides electrical goods so you can run your own technology and machinery. It could be a company that simply supplies the water dispenser refill bottles to your office space. Chances are you’ll find yourself collaborating with a lot of suppliers over time. Find the cheapest on the market and try to secure deals for repeat orders and loyalty.

 

Freelancers

 

Another group you should have good connections with is freelancers. There are bound to be tasks that your company needs to complete to operate your business as effectively as possible, but that you don’t have the niche skill set to carry out yourself. Freelancers that most businesses collaborate with include web designers, graphic designers, copywriters, product photographers and more. It’s important that you get the right freelancer the first time around and build a good relationship with them. You can find freelancers by simply searching online (many have websites) or putting an advert up on a jobs site. Take a look at prospective options’ portfolios, as this will give a good indication of their style and work. If possible, give your freelancers regular work. This will ensure you are their top priority and they are likely to fit your work in as and when you need it completed rather than putting you off in favor of any of their other clients.

 

Agencies

 

Agencies are also a good type of company to collaborate with. Agencies tend to have multiple freelancers on their books, so are good for finding and supplying quick or last minute support. Some can also take whole campaigns or projects off your hands. For example, a market research agency will have countless freelance candidates on their books and are likely to be able to match you up with participants from your target demographic in next to no time. They can conduct the research for you and they can supply results without you having to do much at all!

It is also a great idea to source some specific contacts too. Look for an integrated marketing company, graphic design studio, and even business mentors. Ensure that they meet the needs of your business so that you can maximize what you get out of working with them. A small business can really thrive just by hiring and/or working with the companies. 

 

Always look at how you add value to your customers, and how these companies bring value to you

 

These are just a few different contacts that every small business should have. They’ll help you along the road to success!