Making Connections to Impact you and your Business!

Guest blog written by Christine Lilyholm owner of Stonehouse Teas

People are always asking me for advice on business and what I do to stay motivated and keep positive, even during times of crisis and difficulty.

My biggest piece of advice, surround yourself with people that are different than you and that know different things than you.  As a business owner that might be hard for you to know where to start.  For me, there was an easy answer…connect with the team at the Campbell River Economic Development. 

I knew this was the right decision when I attended my first lunch and learn hosted by ED a few years ago.  I committed to one hour for lunch (everyone has to take time to eat) and to see what I might learn.  From that one session I knew I was in the right place.  This first session left me with a sense of community, a new group of business acquaintances and a drive for wanting more.  I have since attended many events through the Modern Entrepreneur Series and always left with connections to people that knew different things than me.  Whether it was a fellow small business owner with similar challenges, a marketing professional with advice on social media, an expert on creating a sales strategy or a human resource manager with tips on recruiting and retention of staff, all of these people have added to my skill set with all of their tips and advice. 

When COVID 19 hit our community in March, lunch and learns turned into morning coffee Zoom calls with key speakers that helped me guide my way through the challenging months.  Speakers from places like WorkSafe BC, Women’s Enterprise Center, Island Good and Spring Activator.  This one hour allowed me to connect, ask questions and get the answers I needed.  Each call left me moving forward with ideas and plans.

I was also able connect with some of the amazing resources available to me as a Campbell River business owner.  Joining the CR Resilience program, working with Talent Collective coaching sessions, joining the Island Good brand, being part of the naturally CR blue box program.  All of these initiatives allowed me to continue to grow as a business even during these difficult 6 months. 

So one piece of advice to all business owners, commit to an hour and connect with the CR Economic Development team.  This will be your best hour spent and you will be looking forward to many more hours and connections.