Running your own restaurant can be difficult, and not just because of the physical work involved. With all of the different hats you need to wear as a restaurateur, you need knowledge and experience that can take years to develop. By having the ten people below in your inner circle, you can get access to the knowledge you need to build success quickly.

1. Finance Pro
When running any business, it is critical you can manage your cash flow, investments, accounting, taxes, and other finances. Make sure to develop a relationship with a solid finance professional who can help you with planning and managing your money.

2. Restaurateur Mentor
Having a relationship with a mentor who has run their own restaurant will provide you with both professional and personal support. You can gain valuable lessons and experience from a mentor, and also get emotional support for the challenges you’ll face in your day to day work.

3. Experienced Chef
Working with an experienced chef will help you to make sure your menu is appealing and current. An experienced chef can also work with you to make sure your kitchen is running smoothly by managing costs and complying with safety requirements effectively.

4. HR Consultant
It is important to follow all legal requirements for maintaining staff. Equally critical is hiring and firing employees when necessary and motivating your current employees. An experienced HR consultant can help you to achieve all of these things, and you won’t have to invest a lot of time into researching the requirements.

5. Cocktail Expert
Since cocktails are generally a high margin item, having a cocktail menu that works is very important in the restaurant business. Working with a cocktail expert can help you identify what drinks to offer, manage costs, and turn your location into a popular nightlife attraction.

6. Real Estate Broker
If you have your eye on the perfect location, an experienced real estate broker is the right person to work with to make it happen. Not only can a real estate broker help you choose an ideal location, but he or she can help you with negotiations and contract review.

7. Marketing and PR Guru
Marketing and PR has changed drastically due to technology in recent years. A marketing and PR guru can help you to build a presence online, gain recognition within the community, and promote your brand.

8. IT Master
An IT professional can help you make sure your business systems, including your point of sale system, are running smoothly at all hours. The IT master is a critical component of your business because without him or her, technical issues can put your business at a standstill.

9. Lawyer
Making friends with a lawyer, preferably one with experience in the restaurant industry, is important because he or she can help you mitigate legal risk. You will be able to minimize the risk that you’ll be sued, as well as handle any legal concerns efficiently and effectively.

10. Trade Association
Joining a trade association will help you to stay current on the latest news within your industry, including changing regulations and politics. Belonging to a trade association can also help you meet new mentors and other contacts within the industry.

Keep these ten people in mind when making all decisions in your daily business. Having access to this level of experience and knowledge will provide you with the tools you need to achieve success in the restaurant business.