Ask The Wise Woman: What Colleagues? I Fly Solo!

BB writes in via ‘Ask on Facebook‘ – You mention “clients, COLLEAGUES and community” – and the way I read your website, it’s like they’re all segments of a larger group.  I’m a solo practitioner – I have my own mobile massage business, where I set up a mini-spa experience in people’s homes.  It’s just me and my van!  So I understand clients and I sort of understand community, but who are my colleagues?  I don’t think I have any!

Wow, thanks, BB!  First of all, kudos on picking up on that subtlety; yes, I really do consider clients, colleagues, community to be equally important parts of a big cosmic, interconnected whole.  Second – you didn’t mention where you are, and your mini-spa-experience sounds delightful.  Yes, please!

Onto your question – yes, you DO have colleagues!  To me, a colleague is anyone whose livelihood/work-life is impacted by your relationship; anyone who relies on you to show up professionally.

So, consider:

• Other professionals in related fields to whom you refer clients.  Think:  acupuncturists, nutritionists, even hair-dressers.
• The publisher of a local magazine or paper in which you advertise.
• The writer to whose blog you regularly contribute.
• The vendors of the specialty products you use in your business.  Think:  massage oils, aromatherapy candles, your portable massage table and other equipment.
• The mechanic who takes great care of that van you’re putting so many miles on!

With those last two, you might think – but, I’m THEIR customer; we’re not colleagues.  Well, you’re right about the first part – you are their customer.  But what if you shift your perspective… Think about the times when you have asked or they’ve offered their opinions on how you might benefit from: a new product, a new method, a new approach…laying off that pedal, lead-foot.  One professional to another, working together for mutual success.

From etymonline (I’m a word nerd and this is a new favorite find):  From com- ”with” + leg, stem of legare “to choose.” So, “one chosen to work with another.”  

Love that!!

So, who are your colleagues, BB?  And readers – whom have you “chosen to work with?”  Let me know here in the comments or jump in on Facebook!