Professional Development Opportunities Available For Entrepreneurs

Thanks to the opportunities for ecommerce made possible by the internet, we live in a particularly advantageous time for entrepreneurs. Today, anyone with a good idea, some startup capital, and the ability to secure physical or digital space for their business can start a company with fairly good chances for success. If you’re thinking about branching out into the world of entrepreneurship, it’s important to make sure that you’ve got the skill that you need for success. Keep reading to learn more about why it’s necessary for entrepreneurs to invest in professional development as well as the development opportunities offered right here at the PDC of Glendale Community College.

Owning A Business Will Challenge You Like Nothing Else In Your Life

Many people decide to become entrepreneurs after experiencing success while working for someone else. Perhaps you saw an opportunity to do the same thing, only better, and so you struck out on your own to start a business. While your previous career may have prepared you for many technical aspects of your new venture, it’s likely that you lack the conceptual or leadership skills that will be required by your new position as the head of the company.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 50 percent of all new businesses survive 5 years or more, and only about one-third survive 10-years or more. This means two things: it’s hard to keep a baby business alive, and things don’t necessarily get easier the longer you’re around. Taking advantage of development opportunities that make you a better entrepreneur are a great way to ensure that your business is one of the survivors.

What Development Opportunities Should Entrepreneurs Seek Out?

Trade Publications – We understand that entrepreneurs often burn the midnight oil, but reading can happen at any time and is fairly affordable. Read everything you can get your hands on, especially publications that are known to be experts in the field of small business ownership and the particular industry into which you’re trying to break.

Podcasts – Don’t have time to read? Podcasts provide hands-free learning opportunities that can turn your morning commute, lunch hour, or other bit of free time into chance for professional development. Some of the best podcasts for entrepreneurs include The Business, Life, and Coffee podcast, Eventual Millionaire, The Tim Ferriss Show, and 1 Day Business Breakthrough.

MOOCs – This stands for Massive Open Online Courses and is perfect for the entrepreneur with a big need for business training but a tiny budget. These free online courses are offered by some of the best universities and colleges in the world and can be accessed at any time that is convenient for you.

Professional Development Classes – If you can’t find the development opportunities that you want with regard to MOOCs the next step is professional development classes. These courses are targeted for very specific professional needs and can often be completed in just a matter of weeks.

The Professional Development Center at GDCC Has Opportunities For You!

Not matter what kind of development opportunities you’re looking for, the PDC at Glendale Community College in Montrose is here to help. We understand how important small and mid-sized businesses are to the health of our community and economy, and we want to do everything we can to make sure that you’re prepared for the challenges of entrepreneurship. Whether it’s business writing, customer service, marketing strategies, or presentation skills, we can provide you with the development opportunities you need to take your quest for success to the next level.

Don’t waste another minute of time wondering if you can make it as an entrepreneur. Armed with the right skills from PDC, your future is bright! Contact us today.