Today, the business market is more saturated than ever. However, there’s always space for good LGBTQ business owners in our community, especially if they have a good business idea and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. There are a lot of things to consider for all business owners, but LGBTQ ones have to think about even more aspects of doing business—we have to face business struggles as well as personal ones at the same time. If you want to boost your business and become a better LGBTQ entrepreneur, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Use your strengths
The first thing to consider when running a small business in today’s climate is the strengths you have in your arsenal. As an LGBTQ business owner, society will try many tactics to shut you down, but it’s important to use your strengths to stay afloat. And make sure to remain realistic about all the good things you have on your side. If you can’t detect your strongest sides yourself, you can ask your friends, family and customers to help you identify them. And don’t let your weaknesses stop you as well! They can easily be turned into strengths with just a few changes in your habits.
Hire the right people
If you want to boost your business, you need to appreciate your staff even more than before. Every business relies on employees for production, branding and reputation, especially in marginalized communities. No matter if you have one employee or 100, it’s crucial to keep communication channels open and allow them to offer input on how to boost your business practices and improve workspace satisfaction. And even before that, it’s crucial to hire the right people with expertise who can help your business thrive. People who are closest to the problem and who have similar experiences as the customers will manage to establish strong communication with clients and help your business grow.
Invest in training
No one is born a perfect business person. Through training and education, you can earn many new things on how to be a better leader, employer and service provider. If you don’t want to go back to school, you can join a business acumen game and practice your skills and learn new ones. Through virtual and digital learning, education is accessible to all, in a completely new and interesting way that holds your attention and allows you to visualize learning points. With your extra knowledge and skills, you’ll make better business decisions, achieve better results and stand your ground in a turbulent market.
Attend events
Communication with customers is crucial for your business growth and it shows exactly your skills as an LGBTQ business owner. It’s important to establish a strong relationship with customers, clients, investors and other people from the LGBTQ community. Luckily, there are many events you can attend and practice networking, especially LGBTQ events where you can meet other queer entrepreneurs and learn from the experts in the industry. Certified LGBTBE owners gain access to various events and opportunities. Seek a similar organization in your country or state to get the most accurate tips on workplace dynamics, loans and employee benefits.
Practice your social aspect
All LGBTQ business owners (as well as workers and customers) should practice a good social presence. It’s crucial for your business to be recognized in the community, so try to give much attention to your LGBTQ background, uplift your peers and give credit to LGBTQ creators. The idea is to promote the community and give everyone better opportunities for growth.
If you follow the tips above, you can boost your engagement with customers and become a good example of a socially-conscious and friendly LGBTQ business owner with a thriving company. This is the goal and a dream for many of us!