As a new business owner you must wear many hats.

You will need knowledge of accounting, marketing, advertising, management, administration, inventory, sales, etc., in addition to knowledge pertaining to your industry. Since you may be very proficient in some of these areas, but not in others, reading and learning about these other areas is imperative. Of course, the question is, when do I find the time. This is where networking comes in. Your network of contacts is your support group for the areas in which you need help. Determine what areas you need help in and locate a networking group, support group or make a list of the contacts you need and make them yourself. There are also Home Business Clubs in many areas. The SBA is another source, but be careful, we've heard too many complaints about the mentors in the SBA program. However, you might find them adequate for your needs. Look at the local groups and ask before you join if the areas you need help in are represented. You can then call these individuals before a sales presentation, run the client presentation by them, and see what they think. They should be able to help you over the rough spots. Be sure to reciprocate when one of these individuals calls you about your area of expertise. Networking is not a one-way street.

Many times by having contacts in companies you want to do business with, you can find out how they want proposals, bids or contracts done beforehand, and gear your paperwork towards this end.

The library is a good source, so are the publications you subscribe to. Many times the back of publications list networking and support groups. Many of the national organizations have local chapters, so the fees are fairly low, and you are becoming part of a nationwide organization, which, if they are flexible, gives you a variety of individuals to contact. Remember our discussion about the Web. Many of these individuals are using it, so rather than a phone call you can e-mail one another.

Copyright DeFiore Enterprises 2000

Sue And Chuck DeFiore

Chuck and Sue DeFiore are the founders and principals of DeFiore Enterprises. DeFiore Enterprises is comprised of the following divisions: Home Business Consulting, Real Estate Investments, Publishing and Coaching.

Chuck and Sue DeFiore are investors, consultants, and coach/mentors. They specialize in two areas. The first, a niche of Creative Real Estate known as Lease Purchasing; the other, in the establishment of home-based businesses. Through their consultations and investments in Lease Purchasing, they help sellers move their property in 30 days or less; and help buyers get into their dream home today, that they can buy tomorrow. Chuck and Sue are active both locally and nationally.

They are the authors of "Who Makes It Happen, We Do: Back On The Road To Success With Creative Real Estate", and "The Anatomy Of The Deal Series: The Co-Operative Strategy: How You Can Generate Quick Cash Flow In The Creative Real Estate Niche Of Lease Purchasing" and "The Anatomy Of The Deal: Consulting Your Way To A Six Figure Income In Creative Real Estate".

They have published numerous articles on lease purchasing and have five extraordinary manuals, considered to be the most complete in the industry. In addition, they have produced tapes sets on Lease Purchasing, Home-Based Businesses and their extraordinary Expert Tape Series.

They have developed a revolutionary coaching program. The Partnering For Your Success coaching program is geared towards those folks who want or need to change their financial situation. This is a unique program where you work with Chuck and Sue for one full year. It has a low initial cost and together they share in your success.

They are renowned innovators for the home-based business market, through their newsletter, Home Business Solutions, and their support group. They have coached individuals in business start up and all facets of home office development.

They have written numerous articles on operating a home-based business, and have been written about in New Business Opportunities Magazine, Small Business Opportunities Magazine and Income Opportunities Magazine to mention a few.

Chuck and Sue?s motto is "Who Makes It Happen, We Do"

The DeFiore?s currently reside in Fresno, CA where they operate a successful Lease Purchasing and consulting business.