I have been thinking about how best to support new entrepreneurs, particularly ones who are our friends, and how our support and encouragement are critical to their success.
What I often see, however, is an expectation to get their products or services at rock bottom prices. There may be a certain obligation to make it cheaper for you—but does that really help your friend?
I actually think we should pay full price to really support them!
We should actively promote their business by sharing their business on social media, offer them positive feedback, offering our expertise as a mentor, and actively encouraging them with words of support, especially during challenging times; essentially, being a vocal and engaged customer and advocate for their venture.
Now, if the product is not that good or you think no one will be interested please remember that there are 8 billion people on this earth and you friend perhaps only needs 300 of them as customers to make the business viable.
So, there is a market for them out there but maybe not the one you think it should be.
Here some are ways to support an entrepreneur friend:
Be a Customer
Make purchases from their business whenever possible and genuinely use their products or services.
Spread the Word
Share their business on social media, tell your friends and family about them, and recommend them to relevant contacts.
Offer Feedback
Provide constructive criticism and positive feedback on their business ideas and execution.
Act as a Sounding Board
Listen to their challenges and offer your perspective or advice based on your experience.
Mentor or Advise
If you have relevant skills, offer to mentor them in specific areas like marketing, finance, or operations.
Encourage and Motivate
Offer positive reinforcement and remind them of their strengths when they face setbacks.
Attend their Events
Show up to their business launches, networking events, or presentations to demonstrate your support.
Collaborate if Possible
Explore opportunities to partner with their business if your skills or network align.
Business Advisor | Champion of Strategic Growth & Sustainable Innovation
Lone Andersen is a dynamic business leader, serial investor, and startup founder with a global track record of driving growth and sustainability. From advising governments on waste management in Singapore, Rwanda, and Bangladesh to scaling B2B and B2C ventures across Asia, Europe, and Australia, Lone’s expertise spans industries and borders. Known for her sharp strategic insight, she empowers founders, investors, and startups to establish and expand in Thailand and ASEAN. With a passion for sustainable business practices, Lone is the trusted partner for those aiming to scale smart, grow sustainably, and lead with impact.
