It’s our goal to provide retailers like you with high-quality information for you to run your business. That being said, we also know there are several other resources out there for you and your staff. One readily available resource is online learning.

Of course, you might ask, or you may be afraid your staff will ask, “Why do I need online learning to operate or work in an archery shop?” Well, although we might be experts in our field — archery — we may not all be as versed in finances, accounting,  management, social media marketing, web design and other essential skills it takes to run a successful business in today’s market. The bottom line is: Online is available anytime and anywhere — even on the job; it’s a great place to start.

One easy-to-access online resource to consider is LinkedIn Learning, formerly www.lynda.com. “LinkedIn Learning and Lynda.com feature expert instructors and cover thousands of technology, business and creative skills.” All of the courses in their library are available for just under $30 per month, with a slight savings if purchased annually. From their catalog, I have identified three courses that might benefit you and your staff.

WordPress Essential Training

WordPress is one of the most popular Content Management Systems, powering millions of blogs and websites worldwide. Why? Maintaining a professional web presence for your shop is a powerful marketing tool. Keeping your customers apprised of store hours, directions, new bows, sales and other messages is a boon for business. This course covers all of the basics required to implement, install and run a website with WordPress. If e-commerce is in your future, having a WordPress website is the first step to fulfilling that goal.

Social Media Marketing Foundations

The advent of social media dramatically altered the business landscape. It’s true that running paid ads within social media is difficult; however, having a well-defined, engaged target audience to market to is a great tool. Keeping up with the trends of social media and its inherent powers is a great way to stay relevant to today’s business climate. This course will bring you up to speed with all of the current social media platforms — Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and others, as well as show you the best marketing practices for each.

Managing Teams

Let’s face it, our place of business comprises a team of people that needs managed. Whether it’s you or someone you rely on to do so, the management of people is critical to success. This course will provide insight into delegating tasks effectively, monitoring employee performance, member development and providing feedback. Additionally, the course covers setting goals, motivating team members and communication skills.”

Of course, the above is a small sub-set of courses that I believe would benefit you and your staff. However, I may not have enough information to help you choose. If you are interested whatsoever, I encourage you to search the thousands of courses available on LinkedIn Learning (www.lynda.com) to see if there is something that fits your specific needs. Don’t stop there, perform a Google search for online learning opportunities to see what else may be out there that is the perfect fit for your needs.

The bottom line is that we all want our businesses to be as successful as they can be. We are all busy with little time to sacrifice. Learning how to be better at our profession may prove to be a sacrifice worth making.

If there is a topic you would like to see included or expanded upon within the pages of Archery Business or you simply want to send me a note: darren.choate@grandviewoutdoors.com.

Please feel free to reach out at any time. Best to you!