Small-business owners have ample opportunities to develop face-to-face, person-to-person relationships with prospects and clients. 4 In touch: Because they often directly interact with customers, small-business owners are aware of what their market needs and can recognize how to better serve it. By partnering to cross-promote each other or offer a pooled solution to customers, they can adeptly expand their expertise, extend their market reach, and enhance their credibility. For more insight about the realities of starting and growing a small business, contact SCORE Houston to request a free and confidential meeting with a business mentor.