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T hose who run their own business know that it's hard work. It can be isolating. It can be frustrating. It usually means long hours with no overtime, no vacation time, no "time off." e isolation factor is something that is unique to small business. Folks who work for large organizations, and even other small business owners don't really understand your particular business and the challenges you face. But groups like the Bella Vista Business Association foster camaraderie and the feeling that "we're all in this together." And that can be very comforting to a small business owner struggling with his or her own set of frustrations and fears. Networking with other small businesses, to discover what they are doing and have done, is extremely valuable for small business owners. An atmosphere of openness and generosity is something that is found at the BVBA. "Supporting each other in our businesses is an essential foundation for building our community of business owners. We've successfully built relationships that offer the necessary positive encouragement to continue in each of our individual business ventures," says BVBA president Dawn Cross. e smaller the business, the more hats the business owner wears—employer, employee, accountant, human resources, research and development, IT, social media expert, quality control, production management, etc. etc. For small and local business owners, a community like the BVBA can be a source of insight, inspiration, perspective, knowledge and strategies in what can sometimes be a lonely road to small business success. How to succeed in business by really trying: a lesson in networking By Karen Rice 25 | 2021 Bella Vista Business Association Directory