In today’s business environment, ideas can begin from simple observations or personal experience. However, the success of those ideas often depends on the people involved at the early stages. In this episode of Growing Your Business Series with L.O., the focus is on the role of trusted individuals in shaping business outcomes.
Many entrepreneurs share their ideas too quickly and with the wrong audience. According to L.O., this can lead to doubt, delay, or complete abandonment of the idea. “Most times, some people have ideas, and they go share this business idea with the wrong set of people who kill it before it even hits the ground running,” L.O. said.
The message is direct: Be careful who you involve in your business conversations. Not everyone has the ability to understand or support a new idea. Some may focus on risks without considering possibilities, while others may discourage progress due to their own fears or lack of experience.
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L.O. advised that entrepreneurs should seek people who can “see beyond the now and see the future.” These individuals may not have all the answers, but they are willing to listen, ask questions, and offer support where needed.
Mentorship is another key point raised in the discussion. A mentor does not have to come from a formal business background. It could be a family member, a friend, or a community leader. What matters is their willingness to guide and encourage progress.
“Find a mentor,” L.O. stated. “Find someone who will tell you, ‘Hey, keep going, keep pushing.’” This kind of support can help business owners remain focused, especially during periods of uncertainty.
The programme also addressed the importance of persistence. Business ideas may not produce results immediately, but this does not mean they lack value. Timing plays a role in how markets respond to products and services.
L.O. referred to recent global events as an example, noting that some businesses struggled at one point but later found growth when conditions changed. The lesson is to remain patient and continue refining the idea.
Research remains a central requirement before launching any business. Entrepreneurs are advised to avoid relying on assumptions. Instead, they should gather information directly from potential customers.
Key questions to consider include: “Will people want this kind of food?” “Will they want this kind of product?” “Do you think the market is ready for it?” and “How much do you think I should sell it?”
These questions help define the target market and guide pricing and distribution decisions. Without this information, businesses risk operating without direction.
L.O. emphasised that entrepreneurs should also understand their customers’ needs. Knowing where customers are located, how they prefer to buy, and what value they expect can improve the chances of success.“Do not start a business on the basis of assumption,” L.O. warned. “Make sure you ask people.”
Sharing ideas with the right people can also support this research process. Feedback from informed individuals can highlight gaps, suggest improvements, and identify opportunities that may not be immediately visible.
The discussion concluded with a reminder that business growth is not based on a single factor. It requires a combination of the right people, proper research, and consistent effort.
“If you can answer the key question of where my customers are, how will they want it, where will they want it, what value is it going to add to their life and to their business, then you have already hacked this business test by almost 60%,” L.O. said.
The remaining effort, according to the series, lies in execution and commitment.
As the Growing Your Business Series with L.O. continues, the focus remains on practical steps that entrepreneurs can apply in real situations. The message from this episode is clear: choose your circle with care, seek guidance, and build your business on informed decisions.
