7 Things Small Business Owners and Oscar Nominees have in Common

I can’t say I’ve ever heard anyone describe running a small business as wildly glamorous. In fact, most small business owners and solopreneurs find themselves doing work that hardly resembles walking the red carpet in Versace or Dior. But after some thought, I’ve decided we aren’t so completely different. Here’s why…

7 Ways Small Business Owners are Like Oscar Nominees:

• Sometimes you get passed over even if you perform better than your competition.
  It sucks. You’re just as deserving as they are, but for whatever reason, your competitor gets the client. Life isn’t always fair nor rational.

• Sometimes you need to act graciously even when you’re yelling or crying inside.
  Occasionally you have to put on a happy face and grin and bear projects that don’t go as well as expected and clients who are less than cooperative or appreciative.

• Sometimes you have to dress to impress.
  When you’re meeting certain clients, attending events, and making presentations, you’ve got to look professional and polished.

• It can feel like an eternity until you find out you’ve been awarded the prize.
  Sometimes, you submit a proposal promptly…and then need to wait. And wait.

• Sometimes “who you know” helps you get the really good roles.
  How well connected you are in the business community can lead to referrals and primo projects.

• No matter how good you are, not everyone will love you.
  You can’t please all of the people all of the time. Clients have different working styles and personalities. It will be easier to work with some than others.

•  Becoming an A-Lister doesn’t happen overnight.
  Overnight successes are few and far between. You have to work hard, do quality work, and build a following. It takes time.

By Dawn Mentzer
Another Insatiable Solopreneur™ Post