Article by Guest Blogger Cherie Mclaughlin of CouchBasedBiz.com
(*Photo from Pixels)
Small business owners and aspiring and established entrepreneurs can benefit hugely from furthering their education, especially when they’re ready to start, run, and grow their businesses. And since many colleges, universities, and online learning platforms are offering discounted rates, free applications, and waived admission tests amidst COVID-19, there’s no better time for business owners and entrepreneurs to head back into the classroom — even if it’s a virtual one.
Below are three reasons why all business owners and entrepreneurs should consider furthering their education for long-term business growth and success.
1. You’ll Improve Your Business Knowledge
One of the biggest benefits of furthering your education as an entrepreneur or business owner is the ability to develop or improve your business knowledge and strategy — and boost your management and leadership skills. By obtaining your Master’s of Business Administration (MBA), for instance, you’ll also learn how to self-assess, improve your self-awareness, and lead ethically. Whether you’re a seasoned or novice entrepreneur, the skills you’ll learn will help you to launch, run, and grow your business as successfully as possible.
While heading back to school isn’t quite so simple when you’re busy running a business, online programs are available to give you more flexibility and personalization as you work toward your degree.
If you’re not up for enrolling in a degree program at this time, there are some other ways to further your education as a busy professional. From podcasts, books, and webinars to online learning platforms like Coursera and Skillshare, there are so many ways to expand your business knowledge on your own schedule.
2. You’ll Strengthen Your Finances
Even if you work with a certified public accountant (CPA) and use accounting software like FreshBooks or Wave, it’s important for all business owners to have an understanding of basic accounting principles. According to the Houston Chronicle, successful business owners should be able to communicate financial information, evaluate financial information to make smart business decisions, manage cash flow, and prepare and maintain a balance sheet.
To learn these critical accounting skills, you could enroll in an online accounting or MBA program, take an online course through Skillshare or Coursera, or read an accounting book or two. The Balance shares nine of the best accounting books of 2020, including “Accounting All-in-One For Dummies,” “Accounting Numberphobic,” and “Profit First.”
3. You’ll Market Yourself Better
If you enroll in a business degree program, you’ll learn key skills in marketing, sales, and communications. But even if you don’t head back into the classroom, it’s important to expand your knowledge of marketing and learn skills in social media, digital advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), and analytics. Whether you’re a small business owner, freelancer, or consultant, strong marketing skills will be key to your ongoing success.
If you need some help with your business marketing, Jasleni Art & Design offers a wide range of creative services — including social media marketing and website and logo design. Though you may be used to wearing many hats, there’s nothing wrong with outsourcing when you simply can’t do it all.
The Bottom Line
Whether you enroll in an online degree program, take a few online courses for free, or further your education with books, podcasts, and webinars, there’s no better time to further your knowledge of business, accounting, and marketing. By furthering your education, you’ll learn the skills, tools, and information you need to grow your small business and set yourself up for long-term success.
Need help making a logo, designing a website, or developing marketing materials for your small business? Jasleni Art & Design offers everything from branding and web design to fine arts and social media content development. Contact Jasleni today to request a quote!
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