Why Small Business Owners Should Go Back to School, Too

by Jessica Valdez

8/5/2019 1:34:56 PM

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Could More Education Help Your Small Business Succeed?

As back to school season begins for students around the country, you might be wondering if more schooling can help you take your business to the next level. You aren’t alone, either. It’s not uncommon for small business owners and entrepreneurs to wonder if furthering their education might provide tangible business benefits.

Whether it’s a Ph.D., a certificate program, or something in between, the right type of schooling has the potential to help you accelerate the success of your business. Here are some of the top reasons more small business owners should go back to school.

1. Going back to school helps entrepreneurs expand their network

No matter what type of program you enroll in, getting more education is a great way to add more contacts to your professional network.

Networking is one of the top benefits of business schools and other graduate programs, but these types of formal education aren’t your only options. Workshops, conferences, certifications, and e-courses can also introduce you to fellow leaders in your industry.

2. Learning is easier than ever before

Speaking of different types of learning opportunities, getting an education has never been easier or more flexible. Some of your options include:

Webinars
Online schools
Continuing education courses
Courses at a local community college
Local workshops and events
Trade shows and conferences

Many of these classes can be completed online and on your own time, which is ideal for small business owners who have limited free time. You can also find classes on nights, weekends, and during the day, so there’s bound to be something that suits your schedule.

3. Education keeps small business owners up-to-date on industry news, trends, and more

Modern work is fast-paced and constantly evolving, especially when it comes to the tools and technology we use to get the job done. Learning new things means you won’t be left behind when your industry undergoes a shift or transformation.

4. More schooling fills in gaps in your skills and expertise

It’s impossible to know everything, even if you spend the majority of your spare time learning new things and honing new skills. Taking a class is the perfect way to fill in any knowledge gaps so start with an honest inventory of your biggest weaknesses.

For example, could learning about effective sales techniques help your business close more deals? Would gaining some insight into finance and accounting help you cut costs and limit redundancies? Could you take things to the next level with a more advanced understanding of international markets?

5. Going back to school can provide an opportunity to re-build or change course

For some entrepreneurs, going back to school is a key part of rebuilding the business or changing directions within the company. You could use your education to pivot into a new niche, make connections in a new town, or something else entirely.

Simply put, education is empowering, especially when it gives you concrete skills you can use to grow a successful small business.

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