There are a number of talented people in the world dreaming of quitting their day job and making a real profession out of their passions and hobbies. This idea does present its challenges, and the task may seem daunting, but taking smart steps to set yourself up for success can help you achieve your business goals more efficiently.
Getting Started…
What’s the Goal?
Do you just want some extra play money, or are you hoping to rely solely on your business for income? If your answer is the latter, you need to complete sufficient market research to determine the demand for your product or service, and develop a thorough business plan needed both to obtain financing and to effectively manage your venture.
Write a Business Plan
Every new start up needs a solid business plan. It’s essential to have a realistic understanding of the mission and goal of your business, as well as the expected costs and revenues for the first few years. It’s not a bad idea to take a few college courses in business administration and marketing to help you understand the ins and outs of running a business.
Prepare Yourself
The idea of creating a career out of a hobby you love can sound like a dream come true, but it is important to understand that your responsibilities do not end with production the goods. Small business owners have to wear many hats when it comes to running their business. Expect to assume the role of accountant, marketer, product developer, salesperson, customer service, and IT specialist.
Determine Distribution
The nature of your products will determine the most effective method for distribution. Ask yourself questions like, “Do customers need to see and fell my product?” “Will an online-only store front showcase my products effectively?” “Can I make enough profit at local fairs?” “Are home-based businesses permitted where i live?” How you sell your product can make a large impact on your success.
Create a Marketing Plan
Whether you plan to utilize traditional advertising resources, or want to focus on affordable mediums like social media platforms, marketing is an essential factor in getting your business off the ground. Create a plan to build brand awareness for your business in the community, and to share your product or service.
Get Assistance
Local universities and small business development centers offer professional, confidential and low to no-cost business consulting services, including one-on-one counseling and training, to individuals starting a business or looking for ways to improve an existing business. They help entrepreneurs make better, more informed business decisions, which will help to avoid costly mistakes.
Do You Need Capital?
You may need to take out a small business loan or open a credit card for the capital you need to run your business successfully. Assess your current financial responsibilities, use your business plan to estimate startup costs, and with the help of your banker determine your financing needs.
You can plan everything down to the finest detail, and set-up your business with precision, but when it comes down to it, you just have to go for it. There is no way to know if your will be successful until your take a chance. Do not get bogged down with the pre-business steps and unnecessarily delay the actual start-up. Put in sufficient thought, build a solid plan, and then jump in!