Thriving as a “Lone Ranger”

Going solo, “out on your own” in business can be a liberating, exciting and fascinating time.  Sometimes though, it can be a lonely road.

If you have ever wondered if there are more out there just like you, yes there are, increasingly in droves!  Also, there are plenty of solos out there doing things which are complementary to the products or services you offer.  Why not consider pooling resources or at least being support to each other, in the spirit of co-opetition, rather than competition.

As an example, a few colleagues of mine got together and we created a strategic alliance of human resource specialists.  Referring to ourselves as the “HR Hub”, there is a recruiter, an HR consultant and myself, a career consultant.  We get together quarterly to put together a newsletter featuring articles from each of us.  This usually involves a food court meal, bottle of wine and lots of laughter!  It is time to catch up, connect, share contacts, oh….and get a newsletter published.  Two out of the three of us share office facilities and some resources. 

The Hub works well as it enables us to look after a client’s requirements even when they fall outside a particular consultant’s speciality.  We can virtually keep it  “in-house” and be seen to be still solving the client’s problem.

Another hub I’m aware of has three people sharing information – an internet marketing consultant, a web designer and a web content writer all share their favourite sites and tips. They also educate each other in their own areas of expertise.  Two of the hub members have produced an informational CD together.  As you might expect, much of their interaction is by email or using voice technology via the internet.

Hubs often work well because no-one is stepping on another’s toes.  Referrals are rife and there is that feeling of belonging to a team, whilst still retaining the solo’s cherished independence.

Another great way to combat loneliness and get inspired is to form pods.  Just as dolphins in the wild form groups known as pods, so can solos.  Here, the intention is to find others of a like mind. Formal professional or business associations may provide an outlet, or you can initially meet people within these structures and then form your own pod. 

The size doesn’t matter so much, but 5-8 is a good size, so that you have some running mates and a variety of personalities.  Rather than a business alliance or hub, a pod is really more about friendship; having something in common and helping each other out. You may provide the same services as your colleagues – i.e. as a competitor.  The strength however, comes from having others know what it is like to walk the path and help you to avoid some of the pitfalls.  The pod is like your tribe, you’ll know when you find the right group of people for you.

Hub and pod members can be great fun to celebrate with. This brings me to the subject of parties.

If you have ever worked in a large office or company, you may have some nostalgic thoughts about the office Christmas party.  Well, why not create your own “office do” for Christmas.  Invite out some other solos and enjoy a restaurant meal together (there are always special offers, discount vouchers if you don’t want to splurge too much). 

Make sure you take time to celebrate and enjoy the company of friends, family and / or colleagues when you reach a goal or target.  Have a party, get-together or sundowner to celebrate a milestone in your business or to launch a new product.  You will no doubt find a number of solos (caterers, party hire, printers) who can help you out and ensure that you have a great time.

To quote Wayne (from Wayne’s World) …. “Party on, dudes!”

About the author

Lois Keay-Smith is a mum, career consultant, counsellor, writer and speaker, living in Perth, Western Australia. Lois is the Principal of Career Wisdom and helps people create a satisfying work life and discover their life’s work. Visit Career Wisdom at www.careerwisdom.com.au

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