Most likely, you are reading this post because you have some interest in operating or starting a small business, whether as a current owner or someone considering the leap. Of course, you may also be looking into Big Bang LLC as a potential customer, vendor, or employee, or perhaps you've simply followed a thread from somewhere else. Regardless of the rationale behind your landing here specifically, the general goal is learning about small business.
So, my question is, where do you go for learning about small business and entrepreneurship? Books? Blogs? News shows? Friends and family? Other business associates? Here's a few that have impacted my personal and business philosophy.
Books: Some fluff, some anecdotal, some analytical, and some deeply personal, in no particular order.
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Great by Choice by Jim Collins
Where Have All the Leaders Gone by Lee Iacocca
Why Work Sucks by Cali Ressler and Jody Thompson
Illusions by Richard Bach
The 10 Laws of Enduring Success by Maria Bartiromo
Blogs: I love the immediacy of blogs, and I find the comments amusing! From a business perspective, I regularly read the New York Times Small Business Blogs, called "You're the Boss." Specifically, I'm a fan of:
Paul Downs - The best questions about his own business
Bruce Buschel - The most divisive blog I read
Jay Goltz - Just plain great small business advice
Do I agree with everything from these sources? Of course not. Often times I disagree, actually. And some times my opinion changes over time, or I re-read a book or posting and get something new out of it.
As for other sources - I am always talking business with people, whether they're asking about Big Bang or I'm seeking advice from them. My father bought his sales rep business from the previous owner. My mother is entrenched in the politics and unique chaos of the VA hospital system. My wife travels the country for Northwestern Mutual training and working with financial reps. The ideas and suggestions of my employees have proven vital throughout the years, and I continue to go to them to tap their wisdom or to get their perspective.
My point is that there is a tremendous amount of information available, and in business, like in poker, the more information you have and the more open your mind to possibilities, the better a decision you can make. Where do you go for small business inspiration and wisdom?