Helpful tips to start your business.
Ever picture yourself running a clothing store or cafe, helping the environment, or if traveling is your thing—working independently of location? Whether you’re looking to turn your dream into reality or wish to free yourself from the mundane, starting a small business allows you to tailor your job around your core values, and do something you actually want.
If you feel like you stagnated in your current job and want to be challenged, as a small business owner you will be responsible for a number of tasks, including marketing, sales, strategic planning, administration, and even bookkeeping.
Starting an enterprise will require you to remain disciplined, optimistic and relentless in your pursuits. You will be forced to expand both your knowledge and your skill set, and it will be rough. You will likely even question yourself, and your decision to quit your job.
However, once you conquer the learning curve and overcome the challenges, you will discover a newfound confidence in yourself.
As an employee, no matter how hard you work, you’re limited to your salary and an occasional bonus. As an owner, anything the business gains is yours. Assuming you hit the right buttons, you have the potential to earn much more.
If you’re motivated, self-reliant, persistent, and can deal with uncertainty, then running a small business may be right for you.
So how can you get started today?
To begin laying down the foundation that will transform your vision into reality, first you need an idea.
What are some things you’re really good at? Are you artistic? Do you pay special close attention to detail? Are you a social butterfly?
What about skills? Perhaps you’re great at drawing or writing? Or maybe you’re good with numbers or super organized?
Ask yourself: “What kind of enterprise could I start with my particular set of skills?”
For instance, if you’re a strong writer, why not explore content writing, and write a blog post like this one? If you’re super organized, perhaps becoming a Virtual Assistant is right up in your alley? Note: If you’re thinking of becoming a freelancer, Upwork.com is a wonderful platform that allows businesses and independent professionals to connect and collaborate remotely.
Whatever it is, it’s these skills that lay the foundation for any successful small enterprise.
Canada Business Ontario has a comprehensive resource that covers everything from developing your business idea to knowing your customer, to writing a business plan. It’s a great way to get started on your entrepreneurial journey.
http://www.cbo-eco.ca/en/index.cfm/planning/before-you-start/developing-your-ideas/
Furthermore, if you’re looking for some one-on-one guidance and training, Starter Company Plus is an Ontario government mandated program, which provides entrepreneurs with the resources and knowledge they need to start, expand or purchase a small business.
Offered by the Windsor Essex Small Business Centre, Starter Company Plus Entrepreneurs have access to:
- One-on-one guidance
- Business workshops on topics ranging from writing a business plan and cash flow strategies to executing a marketing plan, to product and service pricing and growing your business with confidence
- Six months of mentoring with local entrepreneurs and business professionals
- Grant of up to $5,000
For more information, click here.
http://www.windsoressexsmallbusiness.com/startercompany
Starting your own business is challenging. However, the benefits are undeniable (No more 9-to-5? Try working in your pajamas!). Although getting started is a long grueling process filled with doubt and uncertainty, it may just be the greatest undertaking of your life.
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