Many if not most visitors to my site have at least a bachelor's degree; many have postgraduate work under their belt as well. So why am I recommending your local community college as a resource? There are several reasons:

Skill Training
I'm not suggesting that you pursue an associate degree in any area related to degrees your have already earned. However, for many, a little classroom training can go a long way, especially when learning new skills, such as computer training, corporate writing, presentation skills and more. Often the road to success in many fields is based not only on core skills and knowledge, but also on skills that allow you to do your job efficiently and to incorporate technologies into your work.

For example, you might learn how to use web authoring, graphic or presentation software. You could take a class on Internet marketing and social networking. Perhaps an accounting class would allow you to do a better job on your books, saving you money with your CPA. The possibilities are limited only by the course catalogs for the colleges in your area.

Community colleges classes often cost far less than other possibilities. Don't limit yourself to the core course catalog. Look at the evening classes and adult education catalogs as well.

Interns
Ever needed help with something on a short-term basis, perhaps for a few days of filing, or a short project? There are a lot of people attending community colleges that would love a little extra money and experience. I've found all sorts of help through community colleges, including assistance with graphics, web sites, marketing, general office duties and more.

Consider also that there will be other entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals picking up new skills. The person next to you in the business law class may be a newly minted business owner willing to barter or work for a reduced fee in exchange for good referrals.

Networking
Many community colleges have activities targeting small business owners and rising businesspeople. My own experience tells me that many who attend such functions are community minded, humanistic thinkers - just the kind of people I like to work with, as a consultant and as a client. I've attended everything from one-off seminars, to evening socials, to regular meetings a la Rotary Club (but different).

Income and Visibility
There's a fair chance there's something you know enough about (that relates in some way to your business) that you could create a class on the subject. Depending on the college, this could earn you immediate (albeit small) income. It also offers the possibility of earning secondary income through the visibility gained. I know many small business owners who catch a steady stream of clients from students they've taught.

But it's not just those who attend your class that could hire you because you teach. One way to demonstrate your expertise to potential clients is to include course you've taught in your promotional material.

Learn by Teaching
It's not only a great way to refine your presentations; early in my consulting career, it helped me to codify my philosophies and methods. When you have to put everything together in a manner that will allow you to teach others, it forces you to be very clear in your own mind. The more committed you are to offering a course that is useful to others, the more you will cement your own skill and knowledge.

Conclusion
Community colleges offer several ways to help you do better business. In fact, they be one of the most underused resources available to smart business owners. The next time you receive a community college catalog in the mail, take the time to look through it to see what your local college can offer. You'll be glad you did!