Connecting with other professionals to expand your following can be the key ingredient for your success. Who better than Vanilla Ice to enlighten us about the importance of collaboration? Amongst many other profound lyrics, “Ice Ice Baby” topped the charts in 1989, while spreading the word about joining forces. In case you missed the wisdom of this track on your Walkman, I’m going to throw it back and shine some light on how collaboration can get you more exposure and show your confidence as an entrepreneur. I’m no “lyrical poet,” but I’ll do my best.

Stop. The first word in this powerful triad says a lot in and of itself. Whatever your trade may be, it is always important to take a moment to stop, and reflect on your game plan. An audit every now and then allows us to take a step back, see what tactics have been working, how you can expand, and what areas may have been neglected. Within these evaluations, it’s important to ask ourselves whether we are utilizing all possible resources. One of the largest assets to you and your business is most likely the talented individuals you have around you. This inquiry leads us to the second word of wisdom: collaborate.

If you’re anything like me, then countless individuals that are extremely gifted, driven and successful probably surround you.  From artists, designers, accountants, bloggers, make up artists, hair stylists, writers, models (and the list goes on)… I am lucky enough to have friends that can offer their skills to enhance our business. When you join forces with others that are successful, not only do you benefit from their talents, but it is also one of the best opportunities to reach a brand new following and cross-promote. Promoting one another, especially through social media, is one of the fastest and cheapest ways to double or triple your audience. By “tagging,” guest blogging, and advertising other professionals, you tap into a beautiful exchange of followers, fans and potential clients! While providing instant advertisement and enhancing your business, collaboration also allows your clients to see you as a confident and humble professional. Since you are willing to give another business the forum to shine, you will earn some major brownie points!

Last but certainly not least, listen. This final branch reminds us to not only link up with the talent around us but also take in the advice and knowledge others have to offer. Listen to the critique and insight, no matter how hard it might be sometimes. Make sure to ask those you collaborate with to share what they have learned in business and in life. If you are in a true collaboration, you are able to listen and be listened to. Educating yourself and learning from individuals who are on a similar mission for success can make all the difference.

Fine print: Although collaboration is a powerful instrument that will help you expand your business, it is imperative that you are choosey when deciding whom to work with. Make certain that the work of the individual you are collaborating with is representative of your taste and the tone of your business.