Running a small business is hard, a statement that every business owner can identify with. One item we learn early on, is that we can't do it all. We can try to do it all for many reasons, often times because we can't always afford to hire an expert. I understand this issue, and in the past, have dealt with the same thing. How many of you have tried to create your own company logo in Word or Publisher because a graphic design firm was out of your price range? I know my first logo was done that way. However, there comes a time where we all need to realize as business owners, that experts are needed and should be seen as an investment instead of a cost.

The question you need to stop and ask yourself before moving forward is "Do you want an expert or technician?"

Hiring an expert means letting go and putting your trust in someone else who usually knows more than you do about a particular area. In taking that leap, making an investment in the knowledge and experience of someone else, you should see a growth in your business. Our clients hire The Technology Therapy Group because we are experts. We understand the way a customer shops online, what is important in a web site, how to drive traffic and how to retain customers. Hiring an expert means paying more of a premium for their knowledge and experience, and letting their ideas guide the process. Do you want an expert?

Hiring a technician is a completely different experience. Technicians are there to do what you tell them to do, carrying out the ideas you put on the table. Technicians may offer some feedback, but overall they act as an extra pair of hands for your ideas. In the web world, they may know how to code in HTML or create a graphic for your web site, but they are taking your ideas and your way of doing things to the web. Do you want a technician?

As you can see it is important to understand the differences. I try to advise my clients of the importance of certain elements for their web site. For the most part many listen to my advice, while others listen and just do what they want. Be honest with yourself, what are you really looking for? An expert with proven experience to bring your web site to a new level, or someone with the technical knowledge to carry out your ideas? I understand; as a business owner I sometimes had to work through issues myself, but don't hire an expert and ignore their advice. In the end you will both end up disappointed.