So, you want to start a business? Here are 14 things to think about
Ever dream of being your own boss?
Well, before you take the plunge into entrepreneurship, check out these top tips from Sarah Walker, who runs the business start-up course ‘Supporting the Unsung Hero’ for the Armed Forces community. Get ready to learn what really matters before you start your business journey (and avoid some rookie mistakes).
Think positively. Are you ready to put the effort in and get started?
Work harder and go further. Success won’t happen overnight. Push forward and be prepared to adapt and change.
Be yourself. You are the single most important person behind this business. Believe in yourself, and others will too.
Involve your family. They really can help, whatever age. Talk it through, show them, and listen. Honest opinions really help reduce mistakes.
Make sure it’s right for you. Do you believe in it? Do you have the passion and dedication to get you through the first year?
Why are you doing this? What do you want from this business?
Are you ready for the challenge? This is not the easy option; you are the boss, and the buck stops with you.
What’s already out there? Have you looked at the competition? This will give you an indication of what people are already buying and if there is a demand for what you want to sell.
Test the business. Give it a go and see how people react. Don’t forget to listen and adapt accordingly. Your customer’s insights can be very powerful and, after all, they are the ones buying your product or services, so who is right?
Write it all down. Whether its on a business plan or just a simple piece of paper with your ideas, GET IT OUT OF YOUR HEAD so you can see it and believe it, and then be able to show it to others.
Money matters. How are you going to pay for it? Do you need the business to survive? Two important questions to know before you make the leap.
Ask for help. There is lots of support out there, from family and friends to business professionals – ask and listen.
It doesn’t have to be perfect.
What’s stopping you?
If you’re still wondering whether to go ahead with your business idea, why not join the Supporting the Unsung Hero Introduction to Starting a Business webinar, which runs on a monthly basis? This Stage 1 webinar is free to the Armed Forces community. You can learn more about it and book at www.supportingtheunsunghero.co.uk.