Are you scoring with SCORE?

The New York Times just did a great feature on SCORE – now called Counselors to America’s Small Business.

When I started my business I turned to SCORE for advice.  My counselor was great and got me thinking about my business in a different way. I was so impressed that I popped back in for a visit a while back when I was thinking of changing my business model.  Again, I got some great advice – although I must admit that the counselor wasn’t confident a virtual PR firm and offering products online would be a good thing. (Glad I proved him wrong!)

That said, some SCORE counselors aren’t as great as others. I’ve heard  some stories about people asking for advice only to get a list of funding sources for small businesses.

So what made my experiences different?

1. I asked for a counselor who knew the marketing/advertising field.  Although you may not always get someone in your field, it can help.
2. I was specific about what I was looking for BEFORE I made an appointment. I wasn’t looking for funding.  I needed other advice and ideas.  Because I told them what I needed, they were much more prepared for me.
3. I had some things in writing that they could review before I came in the door. It made my meeting much more focused.

You can’t expect to walk into a place like SCORE and have them figure out what you need.  Ask and you shall SCORE!