There are times for any business person, or entrepreneur, when we need to call in some support. Knowing who to call, and when, can make a real difference to how fast and how effectively you overcome challenges. This series of blogs explores some of the main types of support available to you, and some things to consider in choosing what type of support you might need. [So far we’ve covered Coaching & Mentoring]

 

 

Type of Support: Peer-to-peer/Action Learning

 

What is it?

Action learning is a technique, which is usually used in groups. Typically a group of people will meet on a regular basis to use the techniques (which often combine elements of mentoring and coaching) to explore specific issues in their business.

 

Pros

Peer-to-peer learning can be an effective method of solving problems and can make an entrepreneur feel more supported. It is often a cheaper option that coaching or mentoring. The nature of working with a group is that you draw on a wide range of experiences and perspectives.

 

Cons

If you are facing a highly technical challenge the people in your action learning set may not have suitable expertise (although they may be able to recommend someone who does).

 

Ideal for…

Day to day challenges facing your business, bringing in new ideas and perspectives.

 

Things to consider when choosing who to work with:

Action learning sets work best when they have a relatively stable membership and meet on a regular and ongoing basis. This means you should choose people who are able to commit to meeting regularly and will take the process seriously. It’s important that you meet with people you like, trust and respect, and that you all have a shared agreement on confidentiality (for example, you made decide to operate under Chatham House rules (link)). Often action learning groups opt not to include individuals who are direct competitors of others in the group – you may wish to consider whether this is relevant for your group.

 

 

As with all business support it helps if you work with someone you get on with, someone who shares your values and someone who you trust. Don’t be shy of asking for a taster session, or to meet for a coffee before you decide to work with people, and if possible, meet more than on potential provider before you decide to proceed.

 

[Next week’s blog will be about Networking]

 

In the meantime, as always, we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences about business support, why not pop over to fb.com/RubyStarAssociates and join the conversation there.

 

Blog by Isla…