Joseph Alaba (Alabama Joe)
1) Start with a plan. Not all home businesses need an official business plan, but every home business owner must spend some time planning. Before you put out your shingle, sit down and determine how much money you need to invest (and in what), your goals (short- and long-term), your marketing plan and all those pesky details (For example, do you need a separate bank account?).
2) Look for a mentor. You may know someone who has successfully created a home busine...ss and feel comfortable asking for advice. An incredible free resource is SCORE, a national association dedicated to helping small-business owners form and grow their businesses. A lot offers local and online mentoring, and it helps a lot of small-business owners survive the early stage of their business. Seek help from other small businesses, vendors, professionals, government agencies, employees and trade associations. Be alert, ask questions, and learn everything you can.
3) Make sure there is money in the bank. Don't quit your day job just yet. For those of you considering the full-time freelance plunge-set up a savings account with enough funds to cover at least six months' worth of bills. This will give you a buffer to help with your budget. While hunger might be a good motivator, it's easier to work when you have electricity and your house isn't being repossessed.
4) Remain competitive. Even if you think your business is uni...que, you need to conduct a competitive analysis in your market, including products, prices, promotions, advertising, distribution, quality and service. Also be aware of the outside influences that affect your business. Know what makes the difference between you and your competitors. Is it service, price or expertise? Whatever it is, capitalize on it.
1) Start with a plan. Not all home businesses need an official business plan, but every home business owner must spend some time planning. Before you put out your shingle, sit down and determine how much money you need to invest (and in what), your goals (short- and long-term), your marketing plan and all those pesky details (For example, do you need a separate bank account?).
2) Look for a mentor. You may know someone who has successfully created a home busine...ss and feel comfortable asking for advice. An incredible free resource is SCORE, a national association dedicated to helping small-business owners form and grow their businesses. A lot offers local and online mentoring, and it helps a lot of small-business owners survive the early stage of their business. Seek help from other small businesses, vendors, professionals, government agencies, employees and trade associations. Be alert, ask questions, and learn everything you can.
3) Make sure there is money in the bank. Don't quit your day job just yet. For those of you considering the full-time freelance plunge-set up a savings account with enough funds to cover at least six months' worth of bills. This will give you a buffer to help with your budget. While hunger might be a good motivator, it's easier to work when you have electricity and your house isn't being repossessed.
4) Remain competitive. Even if you think your business is uni...que, you need to conduct a competitive analysis in your market, including products, prices, promotions, advertising, distribution, quality and service. Also be aware of the outside influences that affect your business. Know what makes the difference between you and your competitors. Is it service, price or expertise? Whatever it is, capitalize on it.
5) All systems grow. Word of mouth is the best way to grow your business. Ask your satisfied clients for referrals, offer free consultations to new referrals, and consider a referral or finder's fee. Get your name out to build your brand. Go to industry events--conferences, association meetings and seminars. Go to events in client industries; socialize, and always have your card ready. In addition, do some pro Bono (For the public good) work for a charitable organization with industry links.
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